CTRI ACHIEVE

Children and Youth Workshops

Mental Health and Addictions

Addictions and Youth

Substances, Technology, Porn

Youth who struggle with addiction often resist attempts at intervention. This training provides a trauma-informed framework to understand youth addictions and respond with practical, supportive strategies.

4.9 (12,500+ enrolled)

Start Learning View Upcoming Dates

Available for Private Delivery

Certificate Included

Trauma-Informed Support for Youth Addictions

Youth who are struggling with an addiction often resist attempts at intervention. While some youth are merely experimenting, others may have larger unmet needs that can lead to a negative pattern of use. This workshop provides a framework for responding to a variety of addictions, including those related to substances, gaming, internet, and pornography. Participants will examine the needs underlying the choice to participate in a potentially addictive activity, and will consider issues that are unique to working with youth. Both short-term and longer-term intervention strategies are provided.

Learning Objectives

Describe the role of addictions in youth

Learn how to assess and differentiate between experimentation and addiction

Identify the underlying needs of youth struggling with addiction

List new strategies for supporting youth and families

12,500+

Professionals Trained

4.7 Stars

Trustpilot Rating

500+

Organizations Served

Choose Your Format

Training options built for real-world needs.

Most Popular

On-Demand Workshop

Recorded workshop for flexible, self‑paced learning.

$149

/ per person

Start right away – no scheduling required

Learn at your own pace, in manageable sections

Follow along with a full downloadable manual

Earn a certificate and continuing education credits

Access anytime, on any device

Share access across your team for consistent learning

Live Virtual Workshop

Interactive sessions with experienced facilitators.

From $299

/ per person

Learn from an experienced facilitator

Ask questions and get real-time guidance

Connect and learn alongside peers

Engage in discussions and practical exercises

Earn 6 CECs per day of training

Receive a certificate upon completion

View Upcoming Dates

Personalized training solutions for your team.

Starting at

$3300

per session

Additional Options

On-Demand Webinar

Condensed training in a video format.

Standalone written learning resource.

What You'll Learn

Walk away with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference. The objectives below outline what you'll be equipped to do after completing this training.

Understand Why Youth Use

Explore developmental factors and unmet needs that contribute to youth addiction.

Recognize the Continuum of Addiction

Learn how experimentation can develop into problematic patterns of use.

Understand Adolescent Development

Apply knowledge of adolescent brain development to addiction support.

Identify Youth at Risk

Recognize warning signs and risk factors in youth behaviour.

Assess Needs and Supports

Learn how to assess underlying needs and involve families in support.

Apply Harm Reduction Strategies

Use practical approaches for cravings, triggers, and longer-term outcomes.

Our Approach

Grounded in research, practical application, and real‑world experience.

Accessible

Clear, approachable learning without unnecessary jargon.

Applicable

Content designed for real‑world challenges and opportunities.

Engaging

Facilitators bring content to life through stories and examples.

Practical

Skills and tools designed for everyday use in your setting.

What People Are Saying

Insights from our participants.

"

It's not always easy to facilitate a six-hour session, but it flew by. Perfectly timed, packed with useful, relevant information, curated to address the unique needs of our group."

K. Decle

University of British Columbia, Office of Student Academic Services

"

This was one of the best trainings our organization has had. Staff were so engaged and came away energized and excited rather than tired and drained."

T. Etienne

Portal Youth Outreach Association

"

CTRI is a great source for learning. They were easy to work with and our facilitator presented in an engaging and interactive way that kept people interested and attentive."

J. Grimes

Optimism Place Women's Shelter and Support Services

FAQ's

Common questions about the training.

This training is for:

Mental health professionals

Social services and community‑based professionals

First responders and emergency services

Health care workers and support staff

School and post‑secondary personnel

Leaders, managers, and supervisors

Human resources and people operations teams

Employees in corporate or business settings

Anyone working in people‑centred or support roles

What does this training cover?

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This workshop explores the spectrum of youth addiction – from experimentation to dependency – and teaches practical, trauma-informed strategies for intervention and support.

Who should attend this training?

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This training is suited for youth workers, educators, counsellors, social workers, parents, and anyone who works with or cares for young people facing addiction challenges.

Is gaming and internet addiction included?

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Yes. This workshop addresses a range of addictions, including substances, gaming, internet use, and pornography, recognizing the diverse challenges youth face today.

How does this training address family involvement?

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Participants learn how to involve families in the support process and understand the role parents and caregivers play in both recovery and risk.

Is this available as a private training for our organization?

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Yes. CTRI can deliver this workshop privately for schools, community organizations, health care teams, and Indigenous communities. Contact us to learn more.

Does the training include harm reduction strategies?

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Yes. Harm reduction is a key component of this workshop, with practical strategies for supporting youth who are not yet ready or willing to stop using.

Build Skills to Support Youth

Learn trauma-informed strategies to support youth facing addictions. View live training dates, explore on-demand options, or bring this workshop to your team.

Start Learning View Upcoming Dates

Available for Private Delivery

Certificate Included