The Working Mind First Responders Facilitator Certification Training (TWMFR FCT) is a skills and competencies-based training designed to prepare selected candidates to meet the certification requirements to deliver The Working Mind First Responds (TWMFR) course in a virtual classroom setting.
Following the virtual FCT, and so certification for virtual facilitation, trainers will have the option to upskill to in-person delivery. This upskill is optional and complimentary.
TWMFR facilitators support the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC)’s efforts to change the attitudes and behaviours of Canadians towards mental health and play a vital role in equipping people to support the well-being of their families, friends, and community.
Designed by the MHCC in collaboration with Training & Delivery Specialists and an advisory group of Lead Facilitators, this blended training program features self-paced online components as well as facilitator-led virtual classrooms.
The goal of TWMFR FCT is to enable participants to:
- Become familiar with the MHCC’s mandate and programs
- Apply adult learning principles and facilitation strategies
- Practice facilitating TWMFR course topics in a virtual classroom
- Prepare to give/receive helpful feedback
- Prepare to address the course administration and logistical requirements of TWMFR facilitators
Intended Audience
TWMFR FCT is intended for selected candidates who meet the minimum requirements for facilitating TWMFR courses. Those who are interested in participating in this program are required to go through a selection process which includes a written application and in some cases a short interview.
The Program is only facilitated by certified facilitators who have successfully completed the Facilitator Certification Training (FCT). To be eligible to participate in the FCT, candidates must demonstrate these minimum requirements:
- Frontline experience as a first responder and/or experience in frontline response (i.e. social services or crisis intervention). Those without frontline or first responder experience should apply to “The Working Mind”.
- Experience supporting mental health and well-being at work or in the community.
- Ability to lead group discussions for groups of 8 or more.
- Ability to facilitate a minimum number of courses on a yearly basis (as outlined in the “Facilitator Contract”)and a commitment to meeting this requirement.
- Positive attitudes towards people living with mental health problems
- Driven to reduce stigma/discrimination associated with mental health in the workplace
- Proficient on PowerPoint, must have a valid email address, strong internet connection, and access to a computer. A two-screen setup is optimal for virtual facilitation.
- If applicable: Knowledge of virtual delivery platforms such as Zoom or MS Teams. The virtual FCT is exclusively delivered on the Zoom platform.
Asset: Training/facilitation on topics related to mental health and/or substance use