Preparing the Adult Mental Health Workforce to Succeed in a
Transformed System of Care

Training Curriculum Introduction

The National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors has developed a set of training materials that are designed to be used in the training of direct care staff who work in
in-patient and community residential adult mental health treatment settings.  The impetus for creating these modules was to provide the public mental health field with tools for communicating with direct care staff a “shared understanding” of the key components/competencies/principles of a transformed mental health system and to offer a historical perspective showing the transition from a traditional to a transformed model. 

Each module consists of a PowerPoint, with presenter notes; a page that outlines the learning objectives and outline for that module; a references document that lists all sources cited; and a post-test with multiple choice or true/false questions based upon information in the module.  Also, some of the modules include class exercises or videos.

In their current format, these modules are designed to be presented by informed trainers who can incorporate these materials within the trainings that are offered to direct care staff.  All of the modules can be presented together in a 2-3 day training, or they can be presented on a staggered basis for periodic staff trainings.  The modules can also be updated as new research or areas of focus related to the promotion of recovery/resiliency-oriented care become available.

Currently, there are 18 modules within this curriculum.  They are:

1. Setting the Stage for Change
   • Presentation
   • References
   • Post-test
   • Post-test answers
2. Understanding Mental Health Conditions
   • Presentation
   • References
   • Post-test
   • Post-test answers
3. An Introduction to Recovery, Hope, and Resiliency
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
4. Applying Concepts of Recovery: Guidelines for Recovery Oriented Systems
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
5. Ethics
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
6. Cultural and Linguistic Competence
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
7. Screening and Assessment
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
8. Service Array and Coordination
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
9. Peer Roles in Mental Health Settings
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
10. Facilitating Recovery Through Communication
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
11. An Introduction to Evidence-Based Practices
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
12. Psychiatric Medication: Uses, Side Effects, and Practices
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
13. Understanding Trauma-Informed Care
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
14. Abuse and Neglect
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
15. Overview of Medical/Physical Risk Factors in Persons with Mental Illnesses
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
16. Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
17. Stakeholder Groups
• Presentation
• References
• Post-test
• Post-test answers
18. Stress Management and Self-Care
    • Presentation
    • References
    • Post-test
    • Post-test answers