current training offerings

A Comprehensive Overview of Mental Health...

Mental health issues are complex, and many people who come into contact with individuals who are mentally ill do not receive proper training. BHC offers a thorough training course designed to address this need. This course was initially designed for corrections/jail staff and law enforcement officers, but can be tailored to fit the needs of your particular group. It is presented as an overview of all basic mental health issues.
   

 
 

Mental Health Training for Law Enforcement - "Managing Individuals With Special Mental Health Needs"

Whether in a jail setting or simply responding to a call on the street, many law enforcement personnel are now interacting with individuals with a mental illness more than ever before. BHC's course "Managing Individuals with Special Mental Health Needs" is tailored specifically for law enforcement personnel in any position. We have trained officers, dispatchers, corrections/jail staff, police academy students, and even airport police. This course has been extremely well-received and applauded as a relevant, helpful tool for officers in real-world situations. The course can be offered anywhere in the United States and may qualify for continuing education credits for officers (contact BHC for more information about course details in your area). During this 8-hour (1 day) course, many topics of interest to law enforcement personnel are discussed. Course topics include:
     
  • the most common forms of mental illness
  • identifying various disorders
  • tips for interacting with the mentally ill
  • treatments for individuals who are mentally ill
  • personality disorders; mental retardation
  • drug intoxication and withdrawal
  • recognizing the signs of an emergency
  • suicide prevention
  • civil involuntary commitment procedures
  • common medications
 
     
Each course is presented by a qualified mental health professional. We utilize a combination of PowerPoint slides, video clips, and interactive exercises to maintain interest and aid in understanding mental illness. Our instructors are knowledgeable and experienced, and interaction and questions are encouraged. Officers will also receive a comprehensive course manual containing the information covered in the session. These guidebooks also contain an appendix of helpful community resources for obtaining information regarding that state's mental health services.