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“The Introductory Training to CPS was a gift in helping me shift my mindset about how to respond to challenging behaviors. I wish I’d found CPS years ago, but what comfort to understand the idea of ‘skill not will’ now!”
– Divinna Schmitt, M.Ed.
Introduction to Collaborative Problem Solving explores the basic principles of Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS). Participants learn a more empathic and accurate understanding of what causes challenging behavior and are exposed to an overview of the three key components of the approach. This training is a foundation for professionals and parents interested in learning more about CPS.
We offer Introduction to Collaborative Problem Solving live online or in-person and in an online pre-recorded format.
The Parent Class is designed for parents, guardians, family members and those who want to learn and apply the Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) approach with the kids in their lives. This is an introductory class for those not yet familiar with Collaborative Problem Solving. Class materials, breakout sessions, and opportunities for questions and answers will be a part of this highly interactive parent class experience.
During this interactive training you will:
Financial Assistance: If you require financial assistance, please apply for assistance by completing this form. Funds are limited, and the application does not guarantee an award.
“The Tier 1 CPS training was an awesome experience. Really excited to take this great concept and process back to colleagues and students at our school.”
– Steve Messier
Tier 1 is designed for educators, clinicians, and other professionals who want to apply the Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) approach with the kids in their lives. Participants will learn all three components of the approach – assessment, planning, and intervention. Attendees are also exposed to the neurobiology behind CPS and learn how CPS operationalizes the latest research on trauma-informed care.
Tier 1 training incorporates lectures, case studies, interactive role-play, video examples, and breakout groups. The training also provides practical guideposts and materials to help participants use the model in their daily lives.
If you’re interested in parent-specific training, check out our Collaborative Problem Solving Parent Classes.
If you’d like to host a Tier 1 training for your staff, organization, or community, please contact us.
No Prerequisite: Attending an Introduction to CPS or a CPS Parent Class is recommended but not required.
Financial Assistance: If you require financial assistance, please apply for assistance by completing this form. Funds are limited, and the application does not guarantee an award.
Registration payment by credit/debit card is strongly preferred. Payment by check/invoice/PO will not be available for training sessions beginning in less than 30 days from today. Please email us at ThinkKidsInfo@Partners.org with any questions.
“Having just completed Tier 2 training, I can say without hesitation that this is the most important, impactful work that I can do right now as a child advocate… Be ready for a totally transformative experience.”
– Maggie Magner
This advanced training is available for participants who have taken Tier 1 training in Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) and are interested in strengthening their CPS skills.
This training provides a review of the basic components of CPS, but the primary focus is learning and practicing strategies for implementing the approach in more challenging situations. Participants will also learn how best to facilitate skills development using the approach. This training relies heavily on using real examples from participants’ experiences. Participants will also begin to learn how to integrate CPS with other approaches and therapeutic models and how to support others using the approach and address common questions and misconceptions. Tier 2 training incorporates lectures, case studies, role-plays, videotape examples, and breakout groups.
If you’d like to host a Tier 2 training in CPS for your staff, organization, or community, please contact us.
Note: We have found that having time to practice using the CPS model in between the Tier 1: Essential Foundation training and the Tier 2: Advanced Concepts training has increased understanding and usage of the model. Although, this is not a requirement we recommend at minimum a 3-month gap after you complete the Tier 1 training before attending The Tier 2 training.
Financial Assistance: If you require financial assistance, please apply for assistance by completing this form. Funds are limited, and the application does not guarantee an award.
Registration payment by credit/debit card is strongly preferred. Payment by check/invoice/PO will not be available for training sessions beginning in less than 30 days from today. Please email us at ThinkKidsInfo@Partners.org with any questions.
“I know that all over North America and beyond, I will have a community of people Certified in CPS who understand the lens that I operate from when helping people with challenging behaviors.”
– Alicia Myers, MS CMHC
Become a CPS Expert!
Our Certification Course trains individuals to become experts in Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS). These experts help reach more kids and families who desperately need help.
Using distance learning, the Certification Course provides training of small group supervision, and individual coaching using recordings of your work in order to provide detailed feedback.
Once Certified in CPS, you will join our inspiring international community who receive ongoing training and support from Think:Kids. As a member, you receive access to various benefits including CPS resources and materials and will be formally recognized as an expert in CPS.
Learn More about CPS Certification
To apply, you must have already completed Tier 1 and Tier 2 level training. Applications include a recording of your practice of CPS and completed CPS tools.
Application and Cohort Schedules:
Note: Think:Kids offers three Certification Cohorts per year. Upon acceptance into the course, Think:Kids will assign learners to cohorts based on setting. However, if there is a day/time that absolutely does not work for you please let Think:Kids know in advance.
Before you get started, please note any applications submitted after the indicated deadline will be reviewed and considered for the next cohort offering. If a spot opens up and your application is accepted you will be considered for the current cohort offering.
Fall Cohorts
Spring Cohorts
Summer Cohorts*
*Accelerated cohorts
Financial Assistance: If you require financial assistance, please apply for assistance by completing this form. Funds are limited, and the application does not guarantee an award.
Questions About CPS Certification? Email thinkkidscertification@partners.org.
“The CPS Trainer Course was a really thought-provoking and supportive process. I feel like every time I facilitate a training, I learn something new about CPS and about myself.”
– Kathleen McNamara, LCSW
Become an expert in training others in CPS!
Our CPS Certified Trainers teach people far and wide about our Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) approach.
Using distance learning, the Certified Trainer Course supports learners by providing instruction in the use of training materials and activities and co-training opportunities with individualized coaching to provide detailed feedback.
Once a CPS Certified Trainer, you will join our passionate and talented community of Certified Trainers and receive ongoing support and professional development from Think:Kids. Certified Trainers are authorized to conduct Introductory and Tier 1 training using our training materials. For organizations, trainer certification is the best way to instill CPS into your program’s culture in a sustainable way. Certified Trainers can also provide training in their communities
Learn More about CPS Certification
To apply, you must have already completed our CPS Certification Course. Applications for the Certified Trainer Course include a recorded brief introductory training using Think:Kids’ training materials.
Financial Assistance: If you require financial assistance, please apply for assistance by completing this form. Funds are limited, and the application does not guarantee an award.
Questions About CPS Certification? Email thinkkidscertification@partners.org.
