CPS is an approach to that SOASTC is embracing and teaching our staff. It is based on the philosophy that "children do well if they can", which is in keeping with the long standing values of the organization. Its basic premise is that when children don't respond well to expectations it is not because they don't want to, nor because they are insufficiently motivated; it is because there is a lagging thinking skill. The model offers a specific and structured approach to assess what triggers the child and what skills are lacking along with the steps to take to help the child develop the skills through interactive and collaborative problem solving.

CPS can be used across all settings and has achieved outstanding results in schools, homes, and juvenile justice programs, as well as in mental health facilities and outpatient offices. SOASTC has received over $100,000 in grants to receive intensive consultation and training from the Collaborative Problem Solving Institute in Boston, including the purchase videoconference equipment. The grants are also funding a Family Involvement Coordinator who will help teach parents of SOASTC clients the model. This person will stay on staff to also help families "navigate" the system and help staff understand the perspective of parents who are raising children with mental and behavioral challenges.

For more information about Collaborative Problem Solving, go to http://thinkkids.org.