Who is the audience for this workshop?

Full-time and Part-time caregivers (parents, relatives involved in childcare, foster-parents, mentors, nannies) and other adults who interact with humans ages 12-18 on a daily or near-daily basis.

Can I “gift” a spot to someone if I’m NOT attending the workshop myself?

It’s a “virtual” workshop - does that mean I have to have my video and mic on?

We prefer to see our attendees while interacting with you. This is especially true when we’re practicing communication skills. But, we understand that not everyone is comfortable on camera.

At a minimum, we ask that you start the workshop with your camera on and your first name and preferred pronouns (if any) are visible so that we can take attendance. We don’t want to miss anyone, or leave anyone out.

Text chat communication will be enabled if any questions pop up and mics will be unmuted for attendees as we practice and discuss the material.

What will I learn in this workshop?

Discussing rules and expectations around topics like social media, substance use, and sexual activity can be stressful for everyone involved. The goal of this workshop is to offer adult caregivers relevant information and practical skills that can reduce some of the tension (and frustration) that often shows up when talking with adolescents.

And, hopefully, the tweens and teens will feel less stressed-out during those tough conversations, too.

Can I get a group rate if more than one family member or co-worker signs up for the Workshop?

No additional discounts are available at this time.

This workshop is currently being offered at a special “back-to-school” price of $45 per person.

Is this workshop appropriate for adult caregivers of tweens and teens who are NOT considered neurotypical or have current mental health challenges?

No.

This is a generalized workshop created for those interacting with adolescents ages 12-18. We will discuss the ways in which learning and processing disorders, such as ADHD, and mental health disorders including depression and anxiety can have an impact on adolescent engagement overall.

However, this workshop is not designed to discuss these topics in-depth or with the consideration they need and deserve.

Does this workshop require additional materials?

The Workshop includes handouts that cover the topics discussed with extra space to record your own notes. They also have a glossary of terms and examples of difficult topics with suggestions for what to say (and not say), so you can practice on your own. These suggestions can be used just as they are, or adjusted to match your natural style of speaking.

Attendees will be emailed a link granting them access to these materials as downloadable PDFs 48 prior to the workshop.

Will we have the opportunity to ask questions about how to deal with personal situations with kids/family/school staff/coaches?

This workshop is for informational and educational purposes only. It is intended to be a safe space to discuss generally sensitive topics that impact adolescents and their caregivers.

It is not intended to be a support group, or a therapeutic setting. To protect your confidentiality, and the privacy of others (especially the kids) we ask that questions relate to the workshop material, and that any personal or identifying details be omitted.

What is the instructor’s background?

Erika Stewart Wheelhouse, MA, LMHC is a licensed therapist in Massachusetts and Managing Director of Strive Family Resources.

This workshop draws information and skills from Erika’s 15 years of experience working with adolescents and their families, backed by evidence-based research.

In addition to her work as a mental health advocate, educator, and author, Erika sees a small number of clients in her private practice with a focus on treating trauma, anxiety, and depression.

What is the general approach to this workshop, and the material covered?

The information Strive offers through articles, videos, and workshops comes from over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and their families, backed by evidence-based research.

Sharing accurate information on mental health is our central mission at Strive Family Resources. Through education and advocacy we can improve the mental well-being of all humans while reducing the stigma that continues to surround this extremely important topic.

We attempt to deliver this information with respect, compassion, and a whole lot of humor.