Family-to-Family Courses and Training

Family-to-Family is a free twelve week education course for family members and friends of people living with mental illness. The course is taught by trained NAMI family member volunteers.

The course covers:

Current information about schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD and other major mental illnesses and co-occurring brain disorders and addictive disorders
Up-to-date information about medications, side effects, and strategies for medication adherence
Current research related to the biology of brain disorders and the evidence-based, most effective treatments to promote recovery
Understanding the actual experience of people suffering from mental illness
Problem solving, listening, and communication techniques
Strategies for handling crises and relapse
Suicide prevention
Recovery and rehabilitation
Self care for family members: coping with worry, stress, and emotional overload
Guidance on locating appropriate supports and services in the community
Information on advocacy to improve services and fight discrimination and stigma

Click here for dates and locations of upcoming Family-to-Family courses offered in Maine. For information on courses that are being planned, or to be put on a waiting list for the next course scheduled closest to you, contact Christine Canty Brooks at NAMI Maine (1-800-464-5767), or email.

Volunteers are needed to teach Family-to-Family education courses. If you are a family member and interested in learning to co-teach a Family-to-Family course, NAMI Maine will provide you with formal training, all course materials, and help you get a class started. For more information click here, or call Christine Canty Brooks at NAMI Maine (1-800-464-5767), or email.