CTRI ACHIEVE

Children and Youth Workshops

Adolescent Brain Development

Myths and Truths

Adolescence brings significant changes in the brain that can leave parents, educators, and caregivers unsure how to respond. This training explores the neurobiology of adolescent development and provides practical strategies to support teens through this critical stage.

4.9 (12,500+ enrolled)

Start Learning View Upcoming Dates

Available for Private Delivery

Certificate Included

Understanding and Supporting the Adolescent Brain

During the tumultuous stage of adolescence, the brain undergoes significant changes. During this period, adolescents are more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviours, seek out novel and new experiences, and emphasize peer friendships over family relationships. These neurological, hormonal, and behavioural shifts can leave educators, parents, and other caring adults feeling overwhelmed and reactive rather than supportive. This workshop explores the neurobiology and development of the adolescent brain, as well as the subsequent effects on cognition, emotions, physiology, relationships, and behaviour. Participants will leave with new insights and ideas for supporting adolescents as they navigate this critical stage of development.

Learning Objectives

Define adolescence in a historical and cultural context

Describe features of the adolescent brain and how it differs from the child and adult brain

Identify the influence of substances and technology on adolescent brain development

List strategies for supporting healthy adolescent brain development

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 $155

/ 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

$2050

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.

Context and Neurobiology

Explore adolescence through historical and cultural lenses, and learn the foundational neurobiology of the developing brain.

Unique Features of the Adolescent Brain

Understand how adolescent brains differ from those of children and adults, including gender differences.

Dopamine, Risk, and Relationships

Examine how dopamine drives risk‑taking and novelty seeking, and influences peer relationships.

Attachment and Parental Influence

Learn how attachment styles and parental relationships shape adolescent brain development.

Trauma, Mental Health, and Technology

Explore the effects of trauma, mental health disorders, and the influence of substances and technology on brain development.

Practical Support Strategies

Acquire practical strategies to support healthy adolescent brain development.

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 will I learn in this training?

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You'll gain an understanding of how the adolescent brain develops, why teens behave the way they do, and what practical strategies can help adults support healthy development.

Who is this training designed for?

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This workshop is for parents, educators, counsellors, youth workers, and anyone who regularly works with or cares for teenagers.

Does this training address the impact of technology on the adolescent brain?

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Yes. The workshop includes content on how substances, technology, and social media influence brain development during adolescence.

Is this training available online?

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Yes. This workshop is available in live, on-demand, and private formats to suit your schedule and organization.

Does the training cover mental health and trauma?

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Yes. The workshop explores how trauma and mental health challenges affect adolescent brain development and what caring adults can do in response.

Can our school or district book this as a private session?

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Absolutely. CTRI regularly delivers this training for schools, school boards, and youth-serving organizations. Contact us to arrange a private session.

Support Adolescent Brain Development

Gain insights into the neurobiology of adolescence and learn practical strategies to support teens. Explore training options or bring this workshop to your team.

Start Learning View Upcoming Dates

Available for Private Delivery

Certificate Included