Why is
Mental Health First Aid Training Important?
Mental Health First Aid Training is essential because it:
Mental Health First Aid Training
What We Do
At VEST, we understand the importance of mental health and emotional well-being in fostering a resilient and productive workforce. As part of our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), we are pleased to introduce a new service:
Mental Health First Aid Training
as a registered provider.
This program is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to provide initial support to those experiencing mental health challenges.
What is
Mental Health First Aid Training
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training is comparable to CPR for mental health. It offers comprehensive training to enhance participants’ understanding of mental health issues and equip them with practical strategies to support others competently. The training is offered in 2-hour online preparatory work followed by a 5.5-hour instructor-led session. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate of completion.
Increases Awareness
Psychoeducation about mental health conditions reduces stigma and raises awareness.
Builds Confidence
Empowers individuals on your team to provide initial support and guidance to those in need.
Promotes Early Intervention
Equips participants with skills to recognize and respond to mental health events.
Strengthens Communities
Fosters a culture of empathy, support, and understanding around mental health.
Recovery is Possible
Emphasizes that with support and intervention, recovery from mental health challenges is achievable.
Support Learners with Resources Post-Training
Ensures participants have comprehensive tools and resources to continue learning and supporting others effectively after training.
Core Course Modules
During Mental Health First Aid Training, participants learn how to:
-
Assess for risk of suicide or harm
-
Listen non-judgmentally
-
Give reassurance and information
-
Encourage appropriate professional help
-
Encourage self-help and other support strategies
Additional Topics
In addition to the core components, Mental Health First Aid Training covers:
-
Depression and mood disorders
-
Anxiety disorders
-
Trauma
How Mental Health First Aid Training Works
Pre-Training
- Register for the online component and schedule the instructor-led training session.
- Prepare to dedicate approximately 7.5 hours to complete the training.
- Engage in communication via email with the instructor to coordinate logistics and receive important pre-training information.
During Training
- Engage in 2 hours of self-paced online content covering core concepts of mental health first aid, completed prior to the live training session.
- Participate in 5.5 hours of interactive, instructor-led training via Zoom, which can be divided into two sessions to reinforce learning and allow for practice of essential skills.
Post-Training Support
- Receive a certificate upon completion of the training
- Access additional resources and support materials for ongoing learning and development.
Meet Our Instructor
Noelle Berry
Social Worker, Mental Health First Aid Trainer
Noelle is the Co-Director of Operations and Oversight in the VEST Care Center. Noelle has a masters degree in Social Work from the University of Utah. She uses a strength based approach from a healing perspective. While Noelle is trained in various therapy modalities she has also been trained by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and conducts Mental Health First Aid training, allowing her to share the importance of mental health. Noelle has also received additional training on working with first responders. Noelle holds the following degrees and certifications: BSW, MSW, CSW.
Areas of Engagement
Mental Health First Aid Training, Individual and group therapy
Fun Personal Facts
I am originally from North Carolina, my southern accent comes out the most when I am tired and angry. So you probably won’t get the chance to hear it.
Availability
In person, virtual, and blended.
