Course Overview
The Mental Health First Aid Certification Program (MHFA) is an intensive, 8-hour training designed to empower community members, just like you, with essential skills to support someone developing a mental health challenge or experiencing a crisis.
Think of it as CPR for mental well-being. Just as CPR prepares a layperson to assist during a physical health emergency, MHFA equips you to step in confidently and offer initial support until professional help can be obtained. This program aligns perfectly with the ARC Center’s mission of Achieving Resilience through Connection.
Why Get Certified? The Evidence Behind MHFA
Extensive evidence demonstrates that MHFA training significantly builds mental health literacy, enabling participants to better identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental distress.
By completing the course, you will:
- Gain Confidence: Feel more prepared and comfortable managing a crisis situation.
- Encourage Help-Seeking: Increase your likelihood of advising individuals to connect with professional resources.
- Reduce Stigma: Improve your attitudes toward mental illness, fostering a more supportive and non-judgmental community environment.
(For more detailed information, please visit the MHFA National Council Website.)
Key Learning Objectives
Mental Health First Aid certification requires renewal every three years and ensures participants are ready to act with knowledge and compassion. Upon completion, you will be able to:
- Recognize Warning Signs: Identify potential risk factors and warning signs for a range of mental health challenges, including:
- Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma
- Psychosis and Psychotic Disorders
- Substance Use Disorders
- Self-Injury
- (Note: Youth MHFA addresses challenges specific to adolescents, such as Eating Disorders, AD/HD, and disruptive behavior.)
- Implement a 5-Step Action Plan: Utilize a structured, practical approach to guide an individual in crisis toward appropriate professional assistance.
- Connect to Resources: Apply knowledge of professional, peer, social, and self-help resources available to support recovery and management of mental health problems.
- Reflect and Grow: Assess your own views and feelings about mental health to ensure you are a supportive and effective First Aider.
Course Logistics & Options
The MHFA curriculum is 8 hours total. We offer flexible options to best fit your schedule and organizational needs. Our certified facilitators are vaccinated against COVID-19 and ready to deliver high-quality training.
| Course Format | Structure | Details |
| Virtual (Blended) | 2 hours self-paced online prerequisite + 5.5 hours live instructor-led Zoom session. | The live session can be completed in one day or split into two shorter sessions within a single week. |
| In-Person | 8 hours total. | Can be delivered on-site at your location, or in one of our designated training suites. Can be one full 8-hour day, or two four-hour days within a week. |
Group Courses: Course capacity is a maximum of 25 people. We are happy to coordinate multiple courses as needed to train your entire group!
📧 How to Register or Schedule a Course
The ARC Center offers this program on a fee-for-service basis.
- To get more information or register for an open community course:
- Email us at: admin@arc-center.org
- To schedule a dedicated course for your organization or group:
- Email us directly for coordination and pricing details: admin@arc-center.org