SWK X200 - A Process of Change Approach for Working with Neurodiverse Adolescents: Authentically Integrating ACT, CFT and PVT
This training introduces an innovative approach to working with neurodiverse adolescents in mental health settings by integrating acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), compassion focused therapy (CFT) and polyvagal theory (PVT). Participants will learn how to authentically weave these evidence-based modalities into a cohesive process of change framework. The training discusses neurodiversity and its impact on adolescent mental health; core principles of ACT, CFT and PVT relevant to neurodiverse clients; practical techniques for integrating these approaches to address common challenges faced by neurodiverse teens; and strategies for fostering psychological flexibility, self-compassion and emotional regulation. The training also discusses adapting interventions to suit individual needs and strengths of neurodiverse adolescents. Through experiential exercises, case studies and guided discussions, participants will develop skills to cultivate a compassionate therapeutic presence, utilize mindfulness and acceptance-based strategies, apply polyvagal theory to enhance emotional safety and social engagement, and tailor interventions to support executive functioning and social proficiency.
Delivery Options
This training is constructed as a non-interactive, video-based asynchronous distance learning training.
Time to Completion
Total Asynchronous Time is approximately 3 hours.
Training Completion Requirements
- Participants must submit a pre-training survey, complete all coursework requirements, and pass the training post-test with a score of at least 80%. Unlimited attempts are allowed.
- The post-course evaluation survey will be immediately available once the required coursework and post-test are finished, and the evaluation must be completed to receive CE credit.
Technology Requirements
- Reliable internet connection
- Modern web browser (Google Chrome or Firefox recommended)
What You'll Learn
After completing this training, participants will be able to...
- Demonstrate applying the contextual process of change model to integrate ACT, CFT and polyvagal theory in treating neurodiverse adolescents.
- Identify and implement specific techniques from ACT, CFT and polyvagal theory to address vicious cycles and promote virtuous cycles of change in neurodiverse adolescent clients.
- Develop strategies to tailor interventions to the unique needs of neurodiverse adolescents, considering cultural and contextual factors that shape their experiences and challenges.
What You'll Earn
Social workers completing this training will receive 3 clinical continuing education clock hours under ACE.
This training is approved for 3 CE clock hours for counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists in the state of Ohio.
Additional Information
Development Date: May 2025
Target Audience: 988 crisis call line staff and other human services professionals
Content Level: Intermediate
Training Outline
- Understanding the process of change; transtheoretical model of change overview; change as it applies to neurodiverse adolescents; introductions to ACT, CFT and PVT and how they can be integrated
- A deeper dive into integrating therapeutic approaches, weaving ACT, CFT and polyvagal theory together; practical examples and possible role-playing
- Application and techniques; illustrate specific interventions; adapting techniques for neurodiverse adolescents; adjusting treatment plans as therapy progresses
Presenter
Chris Fraser, MSW, LISW
Owner, Positive Path Counseling
Chris Fraser, MSW, LISW, is the owner of Positive Path Counseling in Dublin, Ohio. Since 1996, Fraser has served a variety of individual clients, couples, children, adolescents and families in both public and private settings. Fraser has a passion for and an expertise in helping children and adults learn compassion-focused therapy skills. His aim is to help children, individuals and families become the best versions of themselves more of the time through teaching them compassionate mind skills. Fraser has 28 years of experience and training in family therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy and compassion-focused therapy. He works primarily from an authentic pairing of CFT and ACT and has been very fortunate to have trained with the creators of these therapeutic approaches. Fraser speaks on these topics locally, nationally and internationally. He and his wife, Heather Doyle Fraser, published the book, Freedom: How Teens Can Use Mindful Compassion to Thrive in a Chaotic World and Grow a Purpose-driven Life, in 2019. Most importantly, Fraser loves spending time with his wonderful wife and daughter.
Continuing Education Approvals
The Ohio State University College of Social Work provides approvals for continuing education for counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists that are accepted by the state of Ohio Counselor, Social Work, and Marriage and Family Therapist (CSWMFT) Board.
The Ohio State University College of Social Work, (Provider: 1628), is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved as ACE providers. State and provincial regulatory boards have the final authority to determine whether an individual course may be accepted for continuing education credit. The Ohio State University College of Social Work maintains responsibility for this course. ACE provider approval period: 4/30/25-4/30/28. Social workers completing this course will receive 3 clinical continuing education credits.
Certificates & CE Reporting
CE certificates will be available for download in your learner portal after submitting the evaluation survey.
Hours for those with Ohio licenses that are submitted with the evaluation survey will be reported to CE Broker every 14 days (twice per month).
⚠️ Note: You may only complete this training once for CE credit. You may revisit the content, but only one certificate will be issued and credit will only be reported to CE Broker one time.
Cancellations, Refunds, Grievances, Accessibility Requests & Learning
Please visit the Policies section of our website for more information on our processes for cancellations, refunds, grievances, training completions & certificates, participant conduct, and accessibility requests and learning accommodations.
We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. If you require an accommodation to participate in this training, please contact CSW Accessibility as early as possible and in advance of the training start date by email at csw-accessibility@osu.edu or call 614-688-1657. Requests received at least 14-days prior to the date you plan to begin a training will generally allow us to provide seamless access, but the College will make every effort to meet requests that we receive regardless of lead time.
Contact Us
For questions about the enrollment process, payment options, technology, or training records, please submit an inquiry and our Enrollment Support team will assist you within 24 hours during business days.
If you have any questions, concerns or feedback about the training content or delivery format, please contact the CSW Office of Continuing Education at cswce@osu.edu. For questions related to the training content, our office will facilitate communication with the training instructor on your behalf and connect you, if applicable. Presenter contact information will be provided within the training for questions, feedback, or comments.
The Ohio State University, College of Social Work, Office of Continuing Education, 302 Stillman Hall, 1947 College Road, Columbus, OH, 43210.
Phone: (614) 292-3032
Email: cswce@osu.edu
Website: csw.osu.edu/continuing-education/