Everyday Use of Collaborative Problem Solving

Everyday Use of Collaborative Problem Solving

Everyday Use of Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) is a live, online, interactive, 1-day learning experience that introduces participants to a practical, trauma-informed, and evidence-based approach for understanding and responding to challenging behavior. Grounded in the core CPS philosophy of “people do well if they can,” this course helps participants recognize that behavior reflects a person’s difficulty accessing necessary skills, which is influenced by their circumstances and level of stress rather than a lack of motivation or willingness to do well.

Through a combination of instruction, guided discussion, and structured practice, participants learn a clear, repeatable framework for responding to challenging situations that reduces stress, prevents escalation, and maintains expectations. Participants leave with foundational skills and tools that can be applied immediately in everyday interactions to support problem-solving, emotional regulation, and stronger relationships across settings.

Upon completing this course graduates wishing to continue their learning may take Essential Foundation in Collaborative Problem Solving.

After completing this course, learners will be able to:

  • Explain that a person's behavior is influenced by their Thinking Skills rather than their motivation to behave well.
  • Tell the difference between the three options in the Collaborative Problem Solving approach for responding to challenging situations and how they pursue different goals.
  • Differentiate between Problems to Be Solved and Undesired Behaviors to inform how we assess a situation and what we do to help.
  • Apply the Assess—Decide—Act process to each Zone in the escalation cycle (green, yellow, red).
  • Use Collaborative Problem Solving to approach challenging situations with curiosity to foster positive, relational interactions and build a trusting relationship.

Upcoming Sessions

NEW COURSE SPECIAL: This new course is being offered at a discounted rate for a limited time!

Everyday Use of Collaborative Problem Solving® | Nov 2026 | CE Credit

Online
$135.00 - $165.00
November 3, 2026: 9:00 am - 2:15 pm ET / 6:00 am - 11:15 am PT
If the above days and times don't work for you, please submit this form to let us know what would work best for your schedule and we will be in touch when a class meets your schedule needs.

Additional Information

Earn 4 CE Credits
Think:Kids/MGH is an Accredited Provider of Continuing Education (CE) credits. This course offers 4 continuing education credits/professional development points.
Learn How to Get Credit >>
Who Should Attend?
This beginner-level course is designed for social workers, educators, residential program staff, and mental health clinicians. Please contact ThinkKidsInfo@MGB.org if you are unsure if this course is for you. 
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If your organization is interested in hosting a private in-person or online training for your employees, please get in touch with us to learn about our customized training options!
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