AptGroup

APT group is a universal prevention program that is especially aimed at students in grades 8 to 11. It is divided into two profiles:

• Profile A is aimed at teenagers who do not use or who use on occasion
• Profile B is aimed at teenagers who use on a regular basis

Each profile involves five group activities regarding alcohol, marijuana and other drugs led by a school staff member (e.g. special education technician, psychoeducator, etc.) lasting 45 to 60 minutes. The activities touch upon teenagers’ five spheres of influence: friends, family members, school (or living environment), community and media. Each activity is structured as follows: presentation of the activity, small group discussion, debate and transmission of preventive messages.

The APT group program is an interactive approach that incites teenagers to reflect and discuss through stimulating activities that help elucidate the risks of drug and alcohol use in adolescence. The beliefs (behavioural, normative and efficacy) that young people hold that lead to or prevent drug use drive the theory on which the program is based.

Thanks to support from the Fondation 
Jean Lapointe, free training is available for facilitators who want to lead the APT group program in their school.

Peer helpers trainers

Since the Apt group program is flexible and adaptable to various situations, it is also possible that its activities are facilitated by peer helpers trainers (PHT). What is a PHT?

• Peers: Secondary IV and Secondary V students chosen by their peers;
• Helpers: open-minded towards others, have a taste for listening and supporting them and, if necessary, directing them to resources that meet their needs;
• Trainers: after receiving intensive training, they are fit to train their peers and deliver group activities.