This training provides clinicians with practical, evidence-informed approaches for engaging and supporting teens in the therapeutic setting. Participants will explore developmental considerations, common challenges, and the impact of family, peers, and culture on adolescent mental health. Emphasis will be placed on building rapport, fostering resilience, and tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of adolescents. Through discussion and applied strategies, this training will highlight ways to strengthen therapeutic alliances while navigating resistance and promoting growth. Attendees will gain fresh insights and concrete tools to enhance their effectiveness in working with this dynamic and often complex population.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Define developmental and psychosocial factors that influence adolescent behavior and mental health.
- Identify best practices for engaging adolescents and addressing common therapeutic challenges.
- Demonstrate strategies for building rapport, fostering resilience, and promoting positive change with adolescent clients.
Syllabus:
Introduction
Objective #1: Define developmental and psychosocial factors that influence adolescent behavior and mental health.
- Limbic system vs prefrontal cortex
- The influence of family/social systems on teen mental health
Objective #2: Identify best practices for engaging adolescents and addressing common therapeutic challenges.
- There is no such thing as resistance
- The importance of rapport
- Following the client’s lead
Objective #3: Demonstrate strategies for building rapport, fostering resilience, and promoting positive change with adolescent clients.
- Creating safety
- Repairing ruptures
- The metaphorical use of objects
Summary/Q&A
Social workers completing this course receive 1.5 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 1.5 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: April 14, 2026
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 1.5hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com