A CBT-Based Program For Tweens ADHD Part 1
CPD courses for psychologists
This practical, developmentally appropriate group program is designed to support tweens aged 11-13 with ADHD to better understand themselves, build real-life coping strategies, and strengthen key skills in emotional regulation, executive functioning and self-esteem.
Sections
Grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), the program is structured around three core modules:
- Psychoeducation: Tweens are supported to make sense of ADHD in a relatable, strengths-based way. Visual tools such as the ADHD Iceberg are used to explore what sits beneath the surface, helping participants understand how their brain works, recognise their strengths, and begin developing a positive sense of identity.
- Adaptive Thinking: This module introduces common thinking traps and helps tweens understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Using practical tools such as the Thought Diary, participants learn how to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns and develop more adaptive responses.
- Practical Coping Skills: The focus here is on strengthening executive functioning skills, including planning, organisation, managing distractions, and task initiation. Tweens are also supported to manage big emotions such as anger and rejection sensitivity. Visual and experiential tools such as the Pebble Jar and Anger Thermometer are used, alongside values-based goal setting to support motivation and follow-through.
This program also incorporates hands-on workbook activities, mentor support, and structured opportunities for reflection, connection, and confidence-building.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:
- Understand the developmental, emotional, and executive functioning changes commonly experienced by tweens aged 11-13 with ADHD
- Deliver the core components of the onTrac Tween Program, including psychoeducation, adaptive thinking, and practical coping skills, in an age-appropriate and engaging manner.
- Apply structured, developmentally informed CBT strategies to support time management, task initiation, emotional regulation, and impulse control in tweens.
- Facilitate independent learning and reflection through the use of interactive workbook activities, thought diaries, problem-solving tools, and goal-setting frameworks.
- Recognise the social and emotional impact of ADHD on peer relationships, self-concept, rejection sensitivity, and resilience during early adolescence.
- Support tweens in developing adaptive communication, assertiveness, and conflict resolution skills through experiential exercises and guided practice.
- Promote healthy routines and reduced problematic screen time through strategies addressing sleep hygiene, balanced nutrition, physical activity, and mindfulness.
- Develop increased confidence in delivering structured, evidence-informed group programs tailored to the unique needs of tweens with ADHD.
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