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Introductory Training: Fundamentals Overview
This training introduces the basic principles of Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS), an innovative and evidence-based approach to understanding and helping kids with challenging behavior. 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 CPS approach. This training lays the foundation for further learning opportunities.

Essential Foundation in Collaborative Problem Solving (Level 1)
This foundational training covers all aspects of the  approach through engaging lectures, role-play, video examples, case studies, and breakout groups. Participants learn how to identify what’s really causing unmet expectations and challenging behavior and address those causes using a relational, replicable, and trauma-informed process. Attendees discover why a new approach is needed to meet the needs of all children, including those with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. They will be able to assess an individual’s thinking skills and what’s required to handle a particular situation. Participants will then be able to tailor interventions based on goals, skill and relationship building, and addressing problems. At the end of this training, participants will begin applying and practicing the approach with others to address challenging situations and are eligible to take Advanced Concepts (Level 2).

Advanced Concepts in Collaborative Problem Solving (Level 2)
This advanced training deepens skills at all phases of the Collaborative Problem Solving approach through engaging lectures, role-play, video examples, case presentations, and breakout groups. Participants learn strategies for using the approach in the most challenging situations using real-life examples from their experiences, enhancing its implementation in the real world. Attendees grow to use the approach with groups, in the spur of the moment, in complex situations, and when they are not directly involved. They learn how to support others and develop strategies for when things get tough, including a lack of trust or language skills. After completing Advanced Concepts, graduates are eligible to apply to the Certification Course.

Certification Course
The Certification course is designed for individuals who want to become experts in the Collaborative Problem Solving approach. The course provides highly individualized training and support over six months using online learning and virtual meetings. Participants receive detailed feedback in individual and small group coaching sessions through recordings and case examples from their work. Trainees learn to recognize common mistakes, areas of difficulty, and ways to course-correct in the moment.

Once Certified in CPS, individuals become members of our international Certified community, receiving ongoing training and support from Think:Kids. Members are given access to a vast array of resources and materials and are recognized on our website as Certified in Collaborative Problem Solving. They are approved to conduct Parent/Caregiver Classes in their community using the official Think:Kids curriculum and may serve as a mentor on CPS best practices within their organization. Certified individuals may apply to take the Certified Trainer course to become experts in teaching the approach to others.

Certified Trainer Course
Individuals who are Certified in Collaborative Problem Solving may apply for the Certified Trainer Course. This course is intended for individuals interested in providing formal training in Collaborative Problem Solving and small-group coaching. The Certified Trainer course supports learners by providing instruction, practice, and feedback in their use of official Think:Kids training materials. Attendees will complete assignments to further their expertise, including co-training opportunities offering personalized coaching and feedback. Graduates can competently prepare and teach all components of an Introduction and Essential Foundation (Level 1) training equitably and inclusively.

Trainer Certification is the best way for organizations to sustainably instill CPS into their program’s culture. Upon completing the Certified Trainer course, participants join our passionate and talented community of Certified Trainers. They receive ongoing support and professional development from Think:Kids by maintaining their community membership. Certified Trainers are authorized to conduct Introduction and Essential Foundation (Level 1) training in their organization and community using the official Think:Kids training materials.