SPARCS Learning Collaborative

Project SPARCS aims to increase access to high-quality, culturally appropriate and evidence-based treatment for youth experiencing chronic stress in Regions III and VII and start to build sustainable infrastructure to continue services. Project SPARCS is about exploring ways to strengthen systems of care for youth, reduce barriers, and improve health equity so youth can heal and reach their goals.

Project SPARCS focuses on implementing Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress (SPARCS) groups within school settings for students ages 12–21, using a collaborative team model that includes community clinicians and school personnel. Through Project SPARCS, TCTY will provide comprehensive support for schools interested in implementing SPARCS. Strong support and commitment from school administration is essential to ensure effective implementation and long-term sustainability. 

If you are interested in bringing SPARCS to your program, it is vital to understand the components involved in this learning collaborative and sustainability model first. Interested sites will apply to join the 2026 Project SPARCS Cohort. We encourage you to review the site application packet carefully before applying (see Application Information below).

SPARCS is a manually guided and empirically-supported group trauma treatment designed to improve the emotional, social, academic, and behavioral functioning of youth (ages 12-21) exposed to trauma and chronic stress.

SPARCS is specifically designed for youth who may:

• Continue to live in stressful or unstable environments
• Struggle with affect regulation and impulsivity
• Experience difficulties in relationships
• Demonstrate avoidance, numbing, dissociation, or somatic symptoms
• Hold negative self-perceptions or hopeless worldviews

The model integrates cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and meaning-making practices. SPARCS focuses not only on symptom reduction but also on strengthening coping skills, improving peer relationships, and building resilience.

Dates

Optional Information Session:
March 27, 2026 12:00 – 1:00pm (Zoom)

• Register for the Optional Info Session
• This information session is an opportunity to ask questions and get more information on Project SPARCS and the SPARCS Learning Collaborative before applying.

SPARCS Session 1: July 29-30, 2026
SPARCS Session 2: September 17-18, 2026

Ongoing Consultation Calls, Implementation Calls: See application packet for details.

Eligibility

Up to 10 school sites from Regions III and VII and Tribal Communities will be selected to participate in the 2026–2027 initiative. Priority will be given to sites that demonstrate the availability of a clinical and co-facilitator team, identified funding sources, and clear commitment from school administration or the governing body.

Application Information

Application Due Date: April 15, 2026
Acceptance Notification: April 27, 2026

Click Here for SPARCS Application Packet (coming soon)

Click Here to Apply (coming soon)

CEUs Available For:

Location
University of Mary
7500 University Drive
Bismarck, ND 58504

Lodging

Hampton Inn & Suites – Bismarck, ND

If lodging is needed, email TCTY at tcty@sanfordhealth.org by June 15th so arrangements can be made on your behalf.

Training Cost

Tuition for this training, lodging, and training day meals are covered by funding from ND SOC Grant and the ND Department of Health & Human Services Behavioral Health Division. However, participants and their agencies will be responsible for all transportation expenses and any meals not otherwise covered by the program.

If you need a scholarship to help cover these expenses, please contact TCTY.

This project is associated with North Dakota’s System of Care Grant (SOC), funded by the federal Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), administered through the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services – Behavioral Health Division.