Strategies and solutions

Strategies & Solutions is a problem-solving group for younger adolescents (13 to 15) who have experienced, or are currently experiencing, a mood disorder, anxiety disorder or difficulty adjusting to some change in life circumstances. It’s a 12-week group offered in September, January and April.

Objectives:

• to enhance the interpersonal skills of adolescents who have experienced some life difficulties;
• to learn about the cognitive basis of mood and anxiety difficulties such as faulty beliefs and cognitive distortions;
• to develop techniques for management of future difficulties such as mood regulation, problem solving and improved communication; and
• to learn and practice the skills of interpersonal support.

Components:

Each session will include structured and unstructured group activities with a focus on discussing topics identified by the group in an early session and as the group progresses. Examples of topics usually included are peer relationships, self-esteem, assertiveness, anger and stress management.

Referral process:

• It is preferred that individuals have had a psychiatric assessment prior to being referred to the group. If this is not possible, the referral will be screened through the Mood and Anxiety Disorders Clinic and assessments will be done either as part of the initial group screening or in separate sessions. Ongoing and follow-up psychiatric care is the responsibility of the referral source and should be in place before the individual is accepted into the group. Group facilitators are available to discuss the adolescent’s progress.
• The group facilitators interview participants several weeks prior to the group in order to get to know each other better and to identify issues the participant wishes to address while in the group. This is also an opportunity to answer questions for those who may be unsure about how a group may benefit them.
• All participants will be asked to complete pre- and post-treatment questionnaires.
• Referrals are welcome throughout the year, as a group waiting list is maintained.
• The group is not appropriate for those adolescents with behavioral problems, psychosis or borderline intellectual functioning, or adolescents who are unable to attend groups free from the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

Please contact our social worker at the Mood and Anxiety Disorders Clinic for more information or to make a referral. Phone: 604-875-2010 / fax: 604-875-2099.