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Adolescent Group Therapy Curriculum: A Comprehensive Guide
Author: Dr. Emily Carter, PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 15 years of experience specializing in adolescent mental health and group therapy interventions. Dr. Carter has published extensively on the topic and is a sought-after speaker at national conferences.
Publisher: Sage Publications – A leading publisher of academic and professional books and journals in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and business, with a strong reputation in mental health publications.
Editor: Dr. David Miller, PhD, Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in adolescent mental health and supervision of group therapy.
Keywords: adolescent group therapy curriculum, adolescent group therapy, group therapy for teens, adolescent mental health, therapeutic groups, adolescent psychotherapy, curriculum development, group counseling, teen therapy, youth mental health.
Abstract: This article provides a comprehensive overview of the essential components of an effective adolescent group therapy curriculum. We will explore various theoretical orientations, practical methodologies, and crucial considerations for developing and implementing such a curriculum. The complexities of adolescent development, alongside ethical and practical challenges, will be addressed to ensure a safe and beneficial therapeutic experience. This guide aims to serve as a valuable resource for clinicians, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of adolescent group therapy.
1. Introduction to Adolescent Group Therapy Curriculum
Developing an effective adolescent group therapy curriculum requires a deep understanding of adolescent development, psychopathology, and group dynamics. This curriculum must be tailored to address the specific needs and challenges faced by adolescents, who navigate a complex interplay of physical, emotional, and social changes. A well-structured adolescent group therapy curriculum offers a powerful therapeutic modality, providing a safe space for self-discovery, skill-building, and peer support. The curriculum should be flexible and adaptable to the specific needs and dynamics of each group.
2. Theoretical Orientations in Adolescent Group Therapy Curriculum
Several theoretical orientations underpin effective adolescent group therapy curricula. These frameworks guide the selection of interventions and therapeutic approaches.
Psychodynamic: This approach focuses on unconscious processes, exploring past experiences and their impact on current behavior. In an adolescent group therapy curriculum, this might involve examining family dynamics, attachment patterns, and defense mechanisms.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT emphasizes the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. An adolescent group therapy curriculum using CBT will teach coping skills, challenge negative thought patterns, and promote behavioral change. Techniques like cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy can be incorporated.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is particularly useful for adolescents struggling with intense emotions and self-harming behaviors. A DBT-informed adolescent group therapy curriculum emphasizes mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT): This approach emphasizes identifying strengths and focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems. An adolescent group therapy curriculum utilizing SFBT would encourage goal setting, exception finding, and the exploration of successful past experiences.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT helps adolescents accept difficult emotions and commit to valued actions. This approach incorporates mindfulness techniques and values clarification within the adolescent group therapy curriculum.
3. Key Components of an Adolescent Group Therapy Curriculum
A comprehensive adolescent group therapy curriculum includes several key components:
Group Formation and Screening: Careful selection of group members is crucial. Screening should assess suitability for group therapy, considering factors like diagnosis, motivation, and potential for group participation.
Establishing Group Norms and Cohesion: Creating a safe and supportive environment requires establishing clear guidelines for confidentiality, respect, and active participation. Building group cohesion is essential for fostering trust and encouraging peer support.
Therapeutic Techniques and Interventions: The curriculum should outline specific techniques relevant to the chosen theoretical orientation. These might include role-playing, psychodrama, mindfulness exercises, or cognitive restructuring.
Skill-Building Activities: Adolescents often benefit from learning specific coping skills, such as communication skills, problem-solving skills, and conflict resolution skills. These skills should be explicitly taught and practiced within the group setting.
Process and Feedback: Regularly reviewing group dynamics and providing constructive feedback is essential. This helps members understand their contributions to the group process and promotes self-awareness.
Termination and Follow-up: The curriculum should outline a plan for group termination, addressing issues of separation and loss. Follow-up sessions or strategies can help maintain gains made in therapy.
4. Addressing Specific Adolescent Issues in the Curriculum
An effective adolescent group therapy curriculum must address common adolescent concerns:
Anxiety and Depression: Interventions should focus on coping mechanisms, stress management, and challenging negative thoughts.
Substance Abuse: The curriculum should incorporate education about substance use, relapse prevention strategies, and support systems.
Trauma and PTSD: Trauma-informed approaches should be utilized, emphasizing safety, trust, and empowerment.
Eating Disorders: The curriculum should address body image issues, distorted thinking patterns, and healthy eating behaviors.
Self-Esteem and Identity Formation: Activities should promote self-acceptance, self-compassion, and exploration of personal values.
5. Ethical Considerations in Adolescent Group Therapy Curriculum
Ethical considerations are paramount in adolescent group therapy. The curriculum should address:
Confidentiality: Limits to confidentiality must be clearly explained.
Informed Consent: Adolescents and their parents or guardians must understand the nature of group therapy and provide informed consent.
Dual Relationships: Clinicians must avoid dual relationships that could compromise the therapeutic process.
Crisis Intervention: The curriculum should include a plan for managing crises that may arise within the group.
Cultural Sensitivity: The curriculum should be culturally sensitive and appropriate for the diverse backgrounds of group members.
6. Practical Considerations for Implementing an Adolescent Group Therapy Curriculum
Group Size and Frequency: Ideal group size is typically 6-8 members, meeting once or twice a week for a specified duration.
Group Leadership: Effective group leadership requires strong clinical skills, including empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution abilities.
Supervision and Consultation: Regular supervision and consultation are crucial for maintaining professional competence and ethical practice.
Record Keeping: Detailed records of group sessions are essential for clinical documentation and accountability.
Evaluation and Outcome Measurement: Assessing the effectiveness of the adolescent group therapy curriculum is important to inform future improvements.
7. Examples of Adolescent Group Therapy Curriculum Activities
Icebreaker activities: To build rapport and encourage participation.
Role-playing: To practice social skills and communication techniques.
Journaling: To promote self-reflection and emotional processing.
Art therapy: To express emotions non-verbally.
Mindfulness exercises: To enhance self-awareness and manage stress.
Group discussions: To explore shared experiences and provide mutual support.
8. Conclusion
A well-structured adolescent group therapy curriculum offers a valuable therapeutic modality, providing a supportive environment for adolescents to address their challenges and develop coping skills. By carefully considering theoretical orientations, ethical implications, practical considerations, and the specific needs of adolescents, clinicians can create effective and impactful group therapy experiences. The ongoing development and refinement of such curricula are essential to meet the evolving needs of this vulnerable population and contribute significantly to their overall well-being.
FAQs
1. What is the ideal length of an adolescent group therapy curriculum? The length varies depending on the specific needs of the group and the therapeutic goals, but typically ranges from 8 to 16 weeks.
2. How do I choose the right theoretical orientation for my adolescent group therapy curriculum? Consider the specific needs and diagnoses of your target population, your own clinical expertise, and the available resources.
3. What are the signs that an adolescent might benefit from group therapy? Signs may include social isolation, difficulty regulating emotions, struggles with peer relationships, or a history of trauma.
4. How can I ensure confidentiality in an adolescent group therapy setting? Clearly establish group norms regarding confidentiality, but also explain the limits (e.g., reporting of harm to self or others).
5. What if a conflict arises within the adolescent group therapy group? The therapist should intervene to facilitate conflict resolution, using techniques such as active listening and mediation.
6. How can I measure the effectiveness of my adolescent group therapy curriculum? Use pre- and post-treatment assessments, feedback from participants, and clinical observation.
7. What training and qualifications are necessary to lead an adolescent group therapy group? A master's degree in a mental health field (e.g., social work, counseling, psychology) and relevant experience are essential. Supervision is highly recommended.
8. What resources are available to help me develop an adolescent group therapy curriculum? Professional organizations, academic journals, and books offer valuable resources and guidance.
9. How do I adapt an adolescent group therapy curriculum for specific cultural groups? Consider cultural norms, values, and communication styles when designing and implementing your curriculum.
Related Articles
1. "The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Adolescent Group Therapy": This article reviews research on the efficacy of CBT in adolescent group therapy for various mental health issues.
2. "Developing a Trauma-Informed Adolescent Group Therapy Curriculum": This article focuses on adapting group therapy approaches to address the unique needs of adolescents who have experienced trauma.
3. "Utilizing Mindfulness in Adolescent Group Therapy: A Practical Guide": This article explores the application of mindfulness techniques to enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation in adolescent groups.
4. "Addressing Substance Abuse in Adolescent Group Therapy: A Multimodal Approach": This article discusses effective strategies for addressing substance abuse within the context of group therapy for adolescents.
5. "The Role of Group Cohesion in Adolescent Group Therapy Outcomes": This article investigates the relationship between group cohesion and positive therapeutic outcomes.
6. "Ethical Considerations in Adolescent Group Therapy: A Case Study Approach": This article explores ethical dilemmas that might arise in adolescent group therapy and suggests strategies for addressing them.
7. "Adapting Adolescent Group Therapy Curricula for Diverse Populations": This article examines the importance of cultural sensitivity in adolescent group therapy and provides practical strategies for adaptation.
8. "Measuring Outcomes in Adolescent Group Therapy: A Review of Assessment Tools": This article reviews various assessment tools that can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of adolescent group therapy interventions.
9. "Supervising Adolescent Group Therapists: Best Practices and Challenges": This article discusses the crucial role of supervision in ensuring the quality and ethical conduct of adolescent group therapy.
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Creative Arts-Based Group Therapy with Adolescents Craig Haen, Nancy Boyd Webb, 2019-01-15 Creative Arts-Based Group Therapy with Adolescents provides principles for effective use of different arts-based approaches in adolescent group therapy, grounding these principles in neuroscience and group process practice-based evidence. It includes chapters covering each of the main creative arts therapy modalities—art therapy, bibliotherapy, dance/movement therapy, drama therapy, music therapy, and poetry/expressive writing therapy—written by respected contributors who are expert in the application of these modalities in the context of groups. These methods are uniquely effective for engaging adolescents and addressing many of the developmental, familial, and societal problems that they face. The text offers theory and guiding principle, while also providing a comprehensive resource for group therapists of diverse disciplines who wish to incorporate creative arts-based methods into their practice with teens. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Teens Together Grief Support Group Curriculum Linda Lehmann, Shane R. Jimerson, Ann Gaasch, 2013-05-13 The texts focus on preschool-aged children, children in kindergarten through grade two, children in grades three through six, and teenagers.Each curriculum contains ten ninety-minute sessions that should be implemented over a period of ten weeks. By employing age-appropriate themes to engage the child and provide continuity throughout the sessions, the division of material within the curricula assures that the activities reflect the developmental level of the grieving child or adolescent. Each person grieves differently, and Grief Support Group Curriculum addresses the issues related to mourning while recognizing the importance of individuality in grieving. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Schools and Health Committee on Comprehensive School Health Programs in Grades K-12, Institute of Medicine, 1997-12-09 Schools and Health is a readable and well-organized book on comprehensive school health programs (CSHPs) for children in grades K-12. The book explores the needs of today's students and how those needs can be met through CSHP design and development. The committee provides broad recommendations for CSHPs, with suggestions and guidelines for national, state, and local actions. The volume examines how communities can become involved, explores models for CSHPs, and identifies elements of successful programs. Topics include: The history of and precedents for health programs in schools. The state of the art in physical education, health education, health services, mental health and pupil services, and nutrition and food services. Policies, finances, and other elements of CSHP infrastructure. Research and evaluation challenges. Schools and Health will be important to policymakers in health and education, school administrators, school physicians and nurses, health educators, social scientists, child advocates, teachers, and parents. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Leading Psychoeducational Groups for Children and Adolescents Janice L. DeLucia-Waack, 2006-05-03 This book provides readers with direction on how to organize psychoeducational groups while also helping them enhance skills for effectively leading such groups—all in one comprehensive volume! Offering an applied, pragmatic approach, author Janice L. DeLucia-Waack uniquely integrates research and practice to suggest valuable leadership strategies while addressing special issues such as children of divorce, anger management, bullying behaviors, and much more. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Handbook of Child and Adolescent Group Therapy Craig Haen, Seth Aronson, 2016-10-14 This handbook describes in detail different contemporary approaches to group work with children and adolescents. Further, this volume illustrates the application of these models to work with the youth of today, whether victims of trauma, adolescents struggling with LGBT issues, or youth with varying common diagnoses such as autism spectrum disorders, depression, and anxiety. It offers chapters presenting a variety of clinical approaches written by experts in these approaches, from classic (play therapy and dialectical behavior therapy) to cutting-edge (attachment-based intervention, mindfulness, and sensorimotor psychotherapy). Because of its broad scope, the book is suitable for a wide audience, from students to first-time group leaders to seasoned practitioners. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Group Exercises for Adolescents Susan Carrell, 2010-07-20 A practical, concise overview of group work with adolescents, including the dos and don'ts, as well as potential pitfalls and hazards and how to avoid them. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: The Mindfulness Matters Program for Children and Adolescents Randye J. Semple, Christopher Willard, 2019-07-08 This indispensable resource provides a flexible framework and a wealth of engaging tools for teaching mindfulness to children and adolescents with varying needs in school or clinical settings. Numerous kid-friendly mindfulness practices are presented, complete with step-by-step instructions, sample scripts, suggested variations, and discussion questions. The benefits of mindfulness for enhancing children's social–emotional competencies are clearly explained. Clinicians and teachers are guided to select and sequence activities for groups struggling with specific challenges: stress and anxiety, depression, attention problems, behavioral and emotion regulation issues, and trauma. In a convenient large-size format, the book includes 14 reproducible handouts. Purchasers get access to a Web page where they can download and print the reproducible materials. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Mindfulness-Based Substance Abuse Treatment for Adolescents Sam Himelstein, Stephen Saul, 2015-06-12 Mindfulness-Based Substance Abuse Treatment for Adolescents is a group-based curriculum incorporating mindfulness, self-awareness, and substance-abuse treatment strategies for use with adolescents dealing with substance use. The evidence-based, how-to format provides a curriculum for professionals to implement either partially, by picking and choosing sections that seem relevant, or in full over a number of weeks. Each session comes equipped with clear session agendas, example scripts and talking points, what-if scenarios that address common forms of resistance, and optional handouts for each session. Sections cover the major principles of working with adolescents—relationship building, working with resistance, and more—along with a full curriculum. The book is a natural fit for psychotherapists, but addiction counselors, school counselors, researchers, mentors, and even teachers will find that Mindfulness-Based Substance Abuse Treatment for Adolescents changes the way they work with young people. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: The Thriving Adolescent Louise L. Hayes, Joseph V. Ciarrochi, 2015-11-01 Adolescents face unique pressures and worries. Will they pass high school? Should they go to college? Will they find love? And what ways do they want to act in the world? The uncertainty surrounding the future can be overwhelming. Sadly, and all too often, if things don’t go smoothly, adolescents will begin labeling themselves as losers, unpopular, unattractive, weird, or dumb. And, let’s not forget the ubiquitous ‘not good enough’ story that often begins during these formative years. These labels are often carried forward throughout life. So what can you do, now, to help lighten this lifelong burden? The Thriving Adolescent offers teachers, counselors, and mental health professionals powerful techniques for working with adolescents. Based in proven- effective acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), the skills and tips outlined in this book will help adolescents and teens manage difficult emotions, connect with their values, achieve mindfulness and vitality, and develop positive relationships with friends and family. The evidence-based practices in this book focus on developing a strong sense of self, and will give adolescents the confidence they need to make that difficult transition into adulthood. Whether it’s school, family, or friend related, adolescents experience a profound level of stress, and often they lack the psychological tools to deal with stress in productive ways. The skills we impart to them now will help set the stage for a happy, healthy adulthood. If you work with adolescents or teens, this is a must-have addition to your professional library. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Girls in Real Life Situations, Grades K-5 Shannon Trice-Black, Julia V. Taylor, 2007 Accompanying CD-ROM contains the same title as book. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: DBT? Skills in Schools James J. Mazza, Elizabeth T. Dexter-Mazza, Alec L. Miller, Jill H. Rathus, Heather E. Murphy, 2016-06-13 Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills have been demonstrated to be effective in helping adolescents manage difficult emotional situations, cope with stress, and make better decisions. From leading experts in DBT and school-based interventions, this unique manual offers the first nonclinical application of DBT skills. The book presents an innovative social?emotional learning curriculum designed to be taught at the universal level in grades 6-12. Explicit instructions for teaching the skills--mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness--are provided in 30 lesson plans, complete with numerous reproducible tools: 99 handouts, a diary card, and three student tests. The large-size format and lay-flat binding facilitate photocopying; purchasers also get access to a Web page where they can download and print the reproducible materials. This book is in The Guilford Practical Intervention in the Schools Series, edited by T. Chris Riley-Tillman. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Preventing Adolescent Depression Jami F. Young, Laura Mufson, Christie M. Schueler, 2016-06-03 Interpersonal Psychotherapy-Adolescent Skills Training (IPT-AST) is a program that teaches communication and interpersonal problem-solving skills to improve relationships and prevent the development of depression in adolescents. IPT-AST was developed to be delivered in schools and other community settings where adolescents are most likely to receive services, with the hope that IPT-AST can help prevent depression and other problem behaviors before they become more severe. Preventing Adolescent Depression: Interpersonal Psychotherapy-Adolescent Skills Training provides a detailed description of the program to guide mental health practitioners to implement IPT-AST. Session-by-session descriptions specify the structure and content of each session. Examples of how group leaders can discuss specific topics are provided throughout the book, and the appendix includes session outlines, communication notecards, cue cards, and more. Chapters also outline key issues related to implementation of IPT-AST, including selecting adolescents to participate in group; conducting IPT-AST in schools, primary care offices, mental health clinics, and other diverse settings; working with adolescents at varying levels of risk for depression; and dealing with common clinical issues. Finally, the book outlines the research on this depression prevention program. Preventing Adolescent Depression is appropriate for a wide variety of mental health practitioners including psychologists, social workers, and school counselors. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Group Work with Adolescents Andrew Malekoff, 1997 This work provides an introduction to the field of adolescent group work, with numerous illustrations from actual group sessions, this book provides principles and guidelines for work in a range of settings. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Thinking, Feeling, Behaving Ann Vernon, 2006 An essential resource for helping students learn to overcome irrational beliefs, negative feelings, and the negative consequences that may result. This revision is packed with 105 creative and easy-to-do activities. The activities include games, stories, role plays, writing, drawing, and brainstorming. Each activity is identified by grade level. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: ACT for Adolescents Sheri L. Turrell, Mary Bell, 2016-05-01 In this much-needed guide, a clinical psychologist and a social worker provide a flexible, ten-week protocol based in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help adolescents overcome mental health hurdles and thrive. If you’re a clinician working with adolescents, you understand the challenges this population faces. But sometimes it can be difficult to establish connection in therapy. To help, ACT for Adolescents offers the first effective professional protocol for facilitating ACT with adolescents in individual therapy, along with modifications for a group setting. In this book, you’ll find invaluable strategies for connecting meaningfully with your client in session, while at the same time arriving quickly and safely to the clinical issues your client is facing. You’ll also find an overview of the core processes of ACT so you can introduce mindfulness into each session and help your client choose values-based action. Using the protocol outlined in this book, you’ll be able to help your client overcome a number of mental health challenges from depression and anxiety to eating disorders and trauma. If you work with adolescent clients, the powerful and effective step-by-step exercises in this book are tailored especially for you. This is a must-have addition to your professional library. This book includes audio downloads. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Grief Support Group Curriculum Linda Lehmann, Shane R. Jimerson, Ann Gaasch, 2012-12-06 The Grief Support Group Curriculum provides a basis for assisting children and teenagers as they learn about mourning through facing death of a close or special friend. The aim of this curriculum is to facilitate healthy variations of mourning and positive adaptations following the death of a friend or family member. The work illustrates mourning in four stages of development and is accordingly divided into four separate texts. The texts focus on preschool-aged children, children in kindergarten through grade two, children in grades three through six, and teenagers. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Dialectical Behavior Therapy with Suicidal Adolescents Alec L. Miller, 2017-05-19 Filling a tremendous need, this highly practical book adapts the proven techniques of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to treatment of multiproblem adolescents at highest risk for suicidal behavior and self-injury. The authors are master clinicians who take the reader step by step through understanding and assessing severe emotional dysregulation in teens and implementing individual, family, and group-based interventions. Insightful guidance on everything from orientation to termination is enlivened by case illustrations and sample dialogues. Appendices feature 30 mindfulness exercises as well as lecture notes and 12 reproducible handouts for Walking the Middle Path, a DBT skills training module for adolescents and their families. Purchasers get access to a Web page where they can download and print these handouts and several other tools from the book in a convenient 8 1/2 x 11 size. See also Rathus and Miller's DBT? Skills Manual for Adolescents, packed with tools for implementing DBT skills training with adolescents with a wide range of problems.ÿ |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Adolescent Substance Abuse Howard A. Liddle, Cynthia L. Rowe, 2006-03-09 This book was first published in 2006. Adolescent drug abuse is one of the most challenging disorders to treat. It impacts on schools, community-based programs, mental health and medical facilities, and juvenile justice settings. This book provides practitioners, program developers and policy makers with practical information for improving outcomes in adolescent substance abuse. The authors cover a range of issues, including empirically based treatment development protocols, how to incorporate innovative treatment models into diverse clinical settings; research advances; interventions with special populations, culturally based intervention guidelines, and recommendations for practice and policy. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Handbook of Child and Adolescent Group Therapy Craig Haen, Seth Aronson, 2016-10-14 This handbook describes in detail different contemporary approaches to group work with children and adolescents. Further, this volume illustrates the application of these models to work with the youth of today, whether victims of trauma, adolescents struggling with LGBT issues, or youth with varying common diagnoses such as autism spectrum disorders, depression, and anxiety. It offers chapters presenting a variety of clinical approaches written by experts in these approaches, from classic (play therapy and dialectical behavior therapy) to cutting-edge (attachment-based intervention, mindfulness, and sensorimotor psychotherapy). Because of its broad scope, the book is suitable for a wide audience, from students to first-time group leaders to seasoned practitioners. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Therapy Games for Teens: 150 Activities to Improve Self-Esteem, Communication, and Coping Skills Kevin Gruzewski, 2020-09-15 Build teen self-esteem and communication skills with 150 simple, effective therapy games Planning thoughtful and productive therapy activities for teens doesn't have to be a complex challenge or require a lot of specialized resources. Therapy Games for Teens makes it easier to reach them, with 150 games based in recreation therapy that help teens cope with stress, bullying, grief, anxiety, depression, and more. These fun and inclusive therapy games are designed specifically with teens in mind. Step-by-step instructions show you how to guide them as they practice everything from labeling their own emotions to creative ways of venting frustration, with techniques that incorporate mindfulness and self-reflection. Give teens the tools to navigate life's challenges effectively, so they can grow up into confident, self-aware adults. Therapy Games for Teens helps: Put teens in control--Designed for both groups and individuals, these therapy games use self-exploration and creative expression to help teens let their guard down and learn valuable coping skills. Discussion questions--Each activity includes tips, talking points, and open-ended questions to help teens put what they learned into perspective and apply it to their lives. Practical and doable--The therapy games use simple materials like pencils, paper, dry-erase boards, and tape so there's no need for expensive or specialized tools. Help teens arm themselves with skills to manage their emotions and step into their potential. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Learning to Breathe Patricia C. Broderick, 2021-06-01 A fully revised and updated second edition, including new research and skills in the areas of trauma and compassion Disruptive behavior in the classroom, poor academic performance, and out-of-control emotions: if you work with adolescents, you are well-aware of the challenges this age group presents, as well as how much time can be lost on your lessons while dealing with this behavior. What if there was a way to calm these students down and arm them with the mindfulness skills needed to really excel in school and life? Written by mindfulness expert and licensed clinical psychologist Patricia C. Broderick, Learning to Breathe is a secular program that tailors the teaching of mindfulness to the developmental needs of adolescents to help them understand their thoughts and feelings and manage distressing emotions. Students will be empowered by learning important mindfulness meditation skills that help them improve emotion regulation, reduce stress, improve overall performance, and, perhaps most importantly, develop their attention. Since its publication nearly a decade ago, the L2B program has transformed classrooms across the US, and has received praise from educators, parents, and mental health professionals alike. This fully revised and updated second edition offers the same powerful mindfulness interventions, and includes compelling new research and skills in the areas of trauma and compassion. The book integrates certain themes of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, into a program that is shorter, more accessible to students, and compatible with school curricula. This easy-to-use manual is designed to be used by teachers, but can also be used by any mental health provider teaching adolescents emotion regulation, stress reduction and mindfulness skills. The book is structured around six themes built upon the acronym BREATHE, and each theme has a core message: Body, Reflection, Emotions, Attention, Tenderness, and Healthy Mind Habits, and Empowerment. Along with The Learning to Breathe Student Workbook, this is the perfect tool for empowering students as they grapple with the psychological tasks of adolescence. Make this new edition a part of your professional library today! |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Seeking Safety Lisa M. Najavits, 2021-05-07 This manual presents the first empirically studied, integrative treatment approach developed specifically for co-occurring PTSD and substance abuse. For persons with this prevalent and difficult-to-treat dual diagnosis, the most urgent clinical need is to establish safety--to work toward discontinuing substance use, letting go of dangerous relationships, and gaining control over such extreme symptoms as dissociation and self-harm. The manual is divided into 25 specific units or topics, addressing a range of different cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal domains. Each topic provides highly practical tools and techniques to engage patients in treatment; teach safe coping skills that apply to both disorders; and restore ideals that have been lost, including respect, care, protection, and healing. Structured yet flexible, topics can be conducted in any order and in a range of different formats and settings. The volume is designed for maximum ease of use with a large-size format and helpful reproducible therapist sheets and handouts, which purchasers can also download and print at the companion webpage. See also the author's self-help guide Finding Your Best Self, Revised Edition: Recovery from Addiction, Trauma, or Both, an ideal client recommendation. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Learning ACT for Group Treatment Darrah Westrup, M. Joann Wright, 2017-06-01 For many clients, group therapy is a more practical treatment option than one-on-one therapy sessions. The financial cost of group therapy is substantially less than individual therapy, and research shows it can be just as effective. However, group therapy also presents unique challenges, and is often more difficult to administer. That’s why professionals need a solid plan of action when using group therapy to treat clients. In recent years, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) has gained immense popularity. Based in values, mindfulness, and committed action, this therapeutic model has proven successful in treating a number of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship problems. However, despite the popularity of this modality, there are very limited resources available when it comes to applying ACT in a group setting. Learning ACT for Group Treatment is a comprehensive, powerful manual for clinicians, therapists, and counselors looking to implement ACT in group therapy with clients. A composite of stand-alone sessions, the book provides detailed explanations of each of the core ACT processes, printable worksheets, tips on group session formatting, and a wide range of activities that foster willingness, cooperation, and connection among participants. In the book, professionals will see how the benefits of ACT can actually be enhanced in a group setting, particularly because there are more participants for ACT exercises. This leads to increased accountability among clients, and allows them to play both an active role and the role of the observer during treatment. The book also includes concrete tips for applying ACT to a number of treatment scenarios, including inpatient group therapy, partial hospitalization programs, outpatient programs, and community self-help groups. With detailed exercises and group activities, this book has everything therapists need to start using ACT in group settings right away. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Resilience Builder Program for Children and Adolescents Mary Karapetian Alvord, Bonnie Zucker, Judy Johnson Grados, 2011 Accompanying CD-ROM contains forms and handouts. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Girls in Real Life Situations, Grades 6-12 Julia V. Taylor, Shannon Trice-Black, 2007 Accompanying CD-ROM has same title as book. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Modular CBT for Children and Adolescents with Depression Katherine Nguyen Williams, Brent R. Crandal, 2015-11-01 Treating adolescents with depression is challenging. This breakthrough book offers a new, cutting-edge treatment for children and teens with depression using a modular cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach. Modular CBT for Depressed Children and Adolescents offers a user-friendly, step-by-step transdiagnostic approach to help you treat youths whose depression presents in diverse ways. This manual offers a compelling rationale for using modular cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a brief overview of the limitations in community mental health that led to the development of the modular approach, distinctions from standard CBT, and a review of the current research supporting the effectiveness of this treatment. Guided by innovative research and best practices, this book provides practical steps for creating a personalized treatment approach for each client that incorporates safety needs, symptoms presentation, etiology, cultural and spiritual background, and family factors. You will also find tools to create a pragmatic conceptualization that can be coupled with the specialized treatment interventions of modular CBT. If you are looking for a detailed, session-by-session treatment program that includes specific instructions on how to use the modular approach to meet the individualized needs of your clients, this book will be your guide. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Counseling Children and Adolescents (Fifth Edition) Ann Vernon, Christine Schimmel, 2019-05-02 Counseling Children and Adolescents provides readers with a comprehensive exploration of the practice of counseling young clients. The book introduces several theories that have proven effective with young clients, then couples that information with developmentally and culturally appropriate interventions and counseling techniques. Theories addressed include developmental theory, play therapy, brief counseling, reality therapy, and rational-emotive behavior therapy. Each theory is described with specific applications with children and adolescents. Additional chapters explore working with at-risk youth, exceptional children, and youth affected by challenging circumstances. Other topics addressed in the text include working with parents and families in school and mental health counseling, basic counseling skills and ethical considerations specific to children and adolescents, creative counseling interventions, counseling children from diverse backgrounds, and working with youth in small groups. Each chapter includes case studies, step-by-step processes, Voices from the Field, educational vignettes, and student exercises to the bridge the gap from theory to practice. This updated edition of Counseling Children and Adolescents features highly informative chapters and information based on rich experience of the authors. With an emphasis on practical applications and empirically-based approaches, it is ideal for graduate-level courses in counseling, psychology, marriage and family, or social work, as well as for practitioners working with young clients. For a look at the specific features and benefits of Counseling Children and Adolescents, visit cognella.com/counseling-children-and-adolescents-features-and-benefits. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Solution Focused Group Therapy Linda Metcalf, 1998 In our managed care era, group therapy, long the domain of traditional psychodynamically oriented therapists, has emerged as the best option for millions of Americans. However, the process can be frustratingly slow, and studies show that patients actually feel worse after months of group treatment than when they began. Can and should the group speed a person's progress? Now, in this must have book, marriage and family therapist Linda Metcalf persuasively argues that the collaborative nature of group therapy actually lends itself to time-limited treatment. She combines the best elements of group work and the popular solution focused brief therapy approach to create new opportunities for practitioners and patients alike.Among the topics covered in this valuable guide are: how to learn the model how to design a group and recruit members how to identify exceptions to a group member's self-destructive behaviors and thoughts how to help members focus on their successes rather than their failures how to keep the group solution focused when therapists or members fall back into old patterns This unique resource also includes case examples and session transcripts to follow, together with reproducible forms that can be used as they are or tailored to a therapist's needs.Solution Focused Group Therapyis an up-to-the-minute, highly accessible resource for therapists of any orientation. Managed care companies in particular will welcome this model, which deals so effectively and economically with today's biggest problems, including eating disorders, chemical dependencies, grief, depression, anxiety, and sexual abuse. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Building Champions Carol Miller, 2016-05-31 A fun-filled game plan to help boys of upper elementary and middle-school age build trust, respect, and peer connections, Building Champions covers the topics boys most want and need to become better friends, classmates, and citizens. Numerous hands-on and interactive experiences maintain group members' interest and allow them to practice targeted skills while learning. Each lesson after the first includes three teaching options to address the needs of different types of groups. Eight group lessons cover the following topics:Introduction to Building ChampionsBreaking a Sweat (Goal Setting)In the Huddle (Integrity and Respect)Hands In (Relationships)Game Time (Leadership and Teamwork)Sitting on the Bench (Self-Control)The Last Play (Confidence)Shake Hands, Game Over (Being a Good Sport) A CD included with the book provides reproducible items, including lesson exit slips, student handouts, and program organization and progress tracking forms. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Helping At-risk Students Jill Waterman, 2009 Engaging, activity based, and effective, this widely used group counseling curriculum (the SPARK program) is designed for flexible implementation in school or clinical settings. The program helps youth build skills for school success and social-emotional growth while exploring such crucial topics as personal goals, ethnic identity and prejudice, peer pressure, violence prevention, and family relationships. Featured are 36 reproducible handouts and forms—plus Spanish-language versions of the 32 handouts—in a large-size format with lay-flat binding for ease of use. New to This Edition *Revised. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Implementing Play Therapy with Groups Clair Mellenthin, Jessica Stone, Robert Jason Grant, 2021-12-22 Implementing Play Therapy with Groups is a new and innovative edited book bringing together experts from across the field of play therapy to explore how to facilitate group play therapy across challenging settings, diagnoses, and practice environments. Applying theoretical and empirical information to address treatment challenges, each chapter focuses on a specific treatment issue and explores ways the reader can implement group work within their play therapy work. Chapters also provide contemporary evidence-based clinical information in providing group therapy with specific populations such as working with children who have been exposed to violence, trauma, adoption, foster care, those who are chronically medically fragile, and more. This book will bring awareness to, and provide easily implemented play therapy knowledge and interventions for, child and family therapists who work in a range of settings including schools, hospitals, residential treatment centers, and community mental health settings. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: The Zones of Regulation Leah M. Kuypers, 2011 ... a curriculum geared toward helping students gain skills in consciously regulating their actions, which in turn leads to increased control and problem solving abilities. Using a cognitive behavior approach, the curriculum's learning activities are designed to help students recognize when they are in different states called zones, with each of four zones represented by a different color. In the activities, students also learn how to use strategies or tools to stay in a zone or move from one to another. Students explore calming techniques, cognitive strategies, and sensory supports so they will have a toolbox of methods to use to move between zones. To deepen students' understanding of how to self-regulate, the lessons set out to teach students these skills: how to read others' facial expressions and recognize a broader range of emotions, perspective about how others see and react to their behavior, insight into events that trigger their less regulated states, and when and how to use tools and problem solving skills. The curriculum's learning activities are presented in 18 lessons. To reinforce the concepts being taught, each lesson includes probing questions to discuss and instructions for one or more learning activities. Many lessons offer extension activities and ways to adapt the activity for individual student needs. The curriculum also includes worksheets, other handouts, and visuals to display and share. These can be photocopied from this book or printed from the accompanying CD.--Publisher's website. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: A Multiple Family Group Therapy Program for at Risk Adolescents and Their Families Susan T. Dennison, 2005 Over 50 bibliotherapy references are also provided along with material related to building resilient families and youth. In addition, readers are given a sample of a multiple family group contract, documentation notes, and a session by session planning sheet. Professionals will be amazed at how much time this text will save them. The book will quickly become a daily resource manual which will assist in more easily planning and facilitating these treatment groups.--Jacket. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: The Teen Relationship Workbook Kerry Moles, 2001 This workbook is for therapists, counselors, and other professionals working with young people to prevent or end relationship abuse. Designed to teach teens to recognize the warning signs in relationship abuse and develop skills for healthy relationships. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: The PEERS Curriculum for School-Based Professionals Elizabeth A. Laugeson, 2013-10-23 The PEERS® Curriculum for School-Based Professionals brings UCLA's highly acclaimed and widely popular PEERS program into the school setting. This sixteen-week program, clinically proven to significantly improve social skills and social interactions among teens with autism spectrum disorder, is now customized for the needs of psychologists, counselors, speech pathologists, administrators, and teachers. The manual is broken down into clearly divided lesson plans, each of which have concrete rules and steps, corresponding homework assignments, plans for review, and unique, fun activities to ensure that teens are comfortable incorporating what they've learned. The curriculum also includes parent handouts, tips for preparing for each lesson, strategies for overcoming potential pitfalls, and the research underlying this transformative program. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: DBT® Skills Manual for Adolescents Jill H. Rathus, Alec L. Miller, 2014-11-10 From leading experts who have trained thousands of professionals in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), this manual provides indispensable tools for treating adolescents with emotional or behavioral problems of any level of severity. Clinicians are guided step by step to teach teens and parents five sets of skills: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Walking the Middle Path (a family-based module developed by the authors specifically for teens), Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. Designed for optimal clinical utility, the book features session outlines, teaching notes, discussion points, examples, homework assignments, and 85 reproducible handouts, in a large-size format for easy photocopying. Purchasers also get access to a Web page where they can download and print the reproducible materials. See also the authors' Dialectical Behavior Therapy with Suicidal Adolescents (with Marsha M. Linehan), which delves into skills training and other DBT components for those at highest risk. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Mental Health and High School Curriculum Guide (Version 3) Stan Kutcher, 2017-07-12 The Mental Health & High School Curriculum Guide (Version 3) is an updated and revised version of the original edition. This comprehensive curriculum guide provides six modules that can be used together or separately in High School classrooms to enhance mental health literacy. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Group Exercises for Adolescents Susan Carrell, 2010-08 This how to manual begins with an overview of adolescent development and the organisation of group therapy sessions. The curriculum of 25 exercises covers issues central to adolescence, including sex, drugs and alcohol, emotionality and identity. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Handbook of Cognitive-Behavior Group Therapy with Children and Adolescents Ray W. Christner, Christy A. Mulligan, 2007-05-07 This Handbook offers a much-needed resource of theoretical knowledge, evidence-based interventions, and practical guidelines for professionals providing group psychotherapy to youth clients. Written by leading professionals in the field of child and adolescent cognitive-behavioral therapy, this comprehensive volume offers readers a collection of innovative and well established approaches for group interventions with youth in a variety of treatment settings. It addresses a wide range of issues, not limited to assessment, group member selection, and specific protocols and strategies that readers can implement in their own practice. Integrating theoretical and practical aspects, leading experts offer their experience through case examples and vignettes, suggesting guidelines for overcoming inherent treatment obstacles. This Handbook provides not only a framework for delivering effective group therapy, but also highlights specific problem areas, and it is an invaluable reference for professionals providing therapeutic intervention to children and adolescents. |
| adolescent group therapy curriculum: Feeling Better: CBT Workbook for Teens Rachel Hutt, 2019-03-19 Help teens relieve stress and anxiety when it strikes with CBT Dealing with school, friends, and thoughts of the future can be challenging for teenagers. This CBT workbook can help, with simple strategies for overcoming tough feelings and living with more positivity and optimism. Find activities and writing prompts that will help you determine your values, boost your self-esteem, and learn to let thoughts come and go without getting stuck on them. Navigate anxiety and anger management for teens with: Interactive exercises and questions―Understand your feelings with quizzes and write-in prompts that help you turn negative habits into more productive ones. Manageable goal setting—Learn how to break down overwhelming tasks and challenges into small steps that make it easier to move forward. Real therapy methods―Explore exercises built on the latest strategies from CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness. This CBT workbook gives teens the strategies to be who they want to be. |
Adolescent health - World Health Organization (WHO)
Apr 7, 2025 · Older adolescent girls are disproportionately affected by intimate partner violence. Pregnancy complications and unsafe abortions are the leading causes of death among 15-19 …
Adolescent health and development - World Health Organization …
Oct 19, 2020 · Changes in the adolescent’s environment both affect and are affected by the internal changes of adolescence. These external influences, which differ among cultures and …
WHO releases updated guidance on adolescent health and well …
Oct 11, 2023 · The World Health Organization (WHO) is releasing the second edition of its Global Accelerated Action for the Health of Adolescents (AA-HA!) guidance. The document aims to …
Salud del adolescente - World Health Organization (WHO)
La adolescencia es la fase de la vida que va de la niñez a la edad adulta, o sea desde los 10 hasta los 19 años. Representa una etapa singular del desarrollo humano y un momento …
Adolescent health WPRO - World Health Organization (WHO)
May 12, 2025 · Adolescent health in the Western Pacific Adolescents – young people between the ages of 10 and 19 years – are often thought of as a healthy group. However, their rates of …
Adolescent and young adult health - World Health Organization …
Nov 26, 2024 · The global adolescent birth rate in 2021 was 42 births per 1000 girls this age, and country rates range from 1 to over 200 births per 1000 girls annually. This indicates a marked …
Coming of age: adolescent health - World Health Organization …
In tackling adolescent health challenges, building resilience is key. For mental health conditions, for example, resilience comes from having emotional, psychological and social support such as …
Six actions to improve adolescent health - World Health …
Oct 11, 2024 · Age-appropriate, adolescent-responsive services, particularly for sexual and reproductive health, are critical. Invest in more and better data for adolescents’ health. More …
Adolescent health - SEARO - World Health Organization (WHO)
Oct 8, 2024 · WHO defines 'Adolescents' as individuals in the 10-19 years age group and 'Youth' as the 15-24 year age group. While 'Young People' covers the age range 10-24 years. There …
WHO releases new guideline to prevent adolescent pregnancies …
Apr 23, 2025 · In a bid to tackle the leading cause of death globally among 15–19-year-old girls, the World Health Organization (WHO) today released a new guideline aimed at preventing …
Adolescent health - World Health Organization (WHO)
Apr 7, 2025 · Older adolescent girls are disproportionately affected by intimate partner violence. Pregnancy complications and unsafe abortions are the leading causes of death among 15-19 …
Adolescent health and development - World Health Organization …
Oct 19, 2020 · Changes in the adolescent’s environment both affect and are affected by the internal changes of adolescence. These external influences, which differ among cultures and …
WHO releases updated guidance on adolescent health and well …
Oct 11, 2023 · The World Health Organization (WHO) is releasing the second edition of its Global Accelerated Action for the Health of Adolescents (AA-HA!) guidance. The document aims to …
Salud del adolescente - World Health Organization (WHO)
La adolescencia es la fase de la vida que va de la niñez a la edad adulta, o sea desde los 10 hasta los 19 años. Representa una etapa singular del desarrollo humano y un momento …
Adolescent health WPRO - World Health Organization (WHO)
May 12, 2025 · Adolescent health in the Western Pacific Adolescents – young people between the ages of 10 and 19 years – are often thought of as a healthy group. However, their rates of …
Adolescent and young adult health - World Health Organization …
Nov 26, 2024 · The global adolescent birth rate in 2021 was 42 births per 1000 girls this age, and country rates range from 1 to over 200 births per 1000 girls annually. This indicates a marked …
Coming of age: adolescent health - World Health Organization …
In tackling adolescent health challenges, building resilience is key. For mental health conditions, for example, resilience comes from having emotional, psychological and social support such …
Six actions to improve adolescent health - World Health …
Oct 11, 2024 · Age-appropriate, adolescent-responsive services, particularly for sexual and reproductive health, are critical. Invest in more and better data for adolescents’ health. More …
Adolescent health - SEARO - World Health Organization (WHO)
Oct 8, 2024 · WHO defines 'Adolescents' as individuals in the 10-19 years age group and 'Youth' as the 15-24 year age group. While 'Young People' covers the age range 10-24 years. There …
WHO releases new guideline to prevent adolescent pregnancies …
Apr 23, 2025 · In a bid to tackle the leading cause of death globally among 15–19-year-old girls, the World Health Organization (WHO) today released a new guideline aimed at preventing …
