MHFA Standard (Virtual – 12-Hour Certification Course)

Delivered by: Salal Mental Health Training www.salalmentalhealthtraining.ca
Instructor: Gabby Gabara, Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN), Certified MHFA Instructor (MHCC)

Course Overview

MHFA Standard is a 12-hour, evidence-based certification course that teaches participants how to recognize signs of mental health problems or crises, provide initial support, and guide individuals toward appropriate professional help. This program builds strong, practical helping skills that can be applied in workplaces, schools, homes, and community settings.

What You’ll Learn

Participants will learn to:

• Understand the impact of mental health problems and crises

• Recognize signs and symptoms of common mental health concerns

• Use the MHFA Action Framework to provide effective, supportive responses

• Approach and speak with someone who may be struggling

• Increase confidence responding to crises (e.g., panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, substance use concerns)

• Support their own well-being while helping others

Format & Delivery

• Delivery Method: Live virtual training via Zoom

• Total Duration: 12 hours, delivered in two 7-hour sessions (Day 1 and Day 2 occur on consecutive days)

• Certification: Successful participants receive the official Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certificate, issued by the Mental Health Commission of Canada and valid for 3 years

There are no pre-learning modules or self-paced components for this course.

Who Should Attend

MHFA Standard is ideal for:

• Workplaces and organizational teams

• Educators, leaders, and frontline professionals

• Community members supporting others in their personal or professional lives

• Anyone who wants practical, evidence-based skills for recognizing and responding to mental health concerns

No previous training or mental health background is required.

Why MHFA Standard?

• Comprehensive and evidence-based program from the Mental Health Commission of Canada

• Builds strong mental health literacy and practical intervention skills

• Applicable across professional, community, and personal contexts

• Supportive learning environment facilitated by an experienced RPN and crisis-response educator

About the Instructor

Gabby Gabara is a Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) and Certified MHFA Instructor through the Mental Health Commission of Canada. With extensive experience in community mental health, crisis response, and adult education across British Columbia, Gabby brings a trauma-informed, compassionate, and practical approach to every training session.

Contact & Registration

To register for an upcoming MHFA Standard course or inquire about group bookings:

• Book a seat directly: https://www.salalmentalhealthtraining.ca/event-list

• Email: salalmentalhealth@gmail.com (for questions or e-transfer payment options)

• Website: www.salalmentalhealthtraining.ca