Creative ERP for Kids

This in-person continuing education training is designed for mental health professionals working with children and adolescents with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Creative ERP for Kids focuses on developmentally informed, evidence-based strategies for assessing and treating pediatric OCD, with an emphasis on increasing engagement, motivation, and follow-through in therapy.

Participants will learn how to adapt the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) for youth, provide child-friendly psychoeducation, and implement Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) in creative, age-appropriate ways—without compromising clinical integrity.

The training emphasizes hands-on practice, real-time feedback, and practical application clinicians can use immediately in session.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

• Administer and adapt the Y-BOCS for children and adolescents using developmentally sensitive approaches

• Explain OCD symptoms and treatment rationale to children and caregivers using clear, child-friendly language

• Prepare young clients for ERP by building motivation, externalizing OCD, and setting realistic expectations

• Implement creative ERP strategies, including play-based and art-based exposures

• Involve caregivers effectively while reducing accommodation and supporting progress at home.

Who Should Attend:

This training is appropriate for:

• Licensed Clinical Social Workers

• Mental Health Counselors

• Marriage and Family Therapists

• Psychologists

• Other behavioral health professionals working with children and adolescents

Instructional Level: Beginning and Intermediate

Training Format

• Live, in-person experiential workshop

• Case demonstrations and guided role-play

• Small-group discussion and hands-on practice

• Built-in breaks and a one-hour lunch

• Participants receive downloadable clinical tools and earn

• 4 CE credits upon successful completion.