Mental Health First Aid

Build the confidence to notice, respond and connect.
Mental health challenges can show up anywhere —including at work. Even when people genuinely want to help, they don't always know what to say, what their role is or what to do next.
Talk to Us About MHFA
At a glance
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), developed by Opening Minds, provides practical, evidence-based training that helps participants recognize changes in mental health, approach someone with confidence, have supportive conversations and connect people with appropriate resources.
Collective Minds Canada offers two MHFA options, allowing organizations to choose the level of training that best fits their team.
Man with beard resting chin on hand attentively listening in a meeting room.

MHFA Essentials

One-day training | Practical foundational skills
MHFA Essentials provides a streamlined introduction to Mental Health First Aid for organizations looking to build practical mental health literacy and response skills within a one-day format.
  1. Recognize changes that may indicate a mental health concern
  2. Understand mental health, stigma and barriers to seeking help
  3. Approach someone who may be struggling
  4. Listen and respond without judgment
  5. Understand appropriate helping boundaries
  6. Encourage professional and other supports
  7. Respond more confidently when concerns arise
Best suited for: employees, supervisors, team leads and organizations looking to build broad mental health awareness and practical helping skills.
Woman standing and speaking to three seated colleagues in a bright office meeting room.

MHFA Certification

Two-day training | Nationally recognized certification
MHFA Certification provides a more comprehensive Mental Health First Aid learning experience with additional education, discussion, scenarios and practical application.
  1. Increase understanding of mental health and common mental health concerns
  2. Recognize changes in mental health
  3. Understand stigma and barriers to seeking help
  4. Use effective supportive communication
  5. Apply Mental Health First Aid skills through realistic scenarios
  6. Respond appropriately to potential mental health crises
  7. Connect individuals with professional, community and personal supports
Successful completion and assessment leads to nationally recognized Mental Health First Aid certification.
A woman standing and talking to four seated colleagues around a table in a bright office.
One-day Essentials, two-day Certification, or a mix of both across your team.
Not sure which option is right?

Organizations don't necessarily need to train everyone at the same level. Collective Minds Canada can help determine which employees would benefit from MHFA Essentials, which roles may benefit from Certification and how MHFA can fit into a broader workplace mental health strategy.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between MHFA Essentials and MHFA Certification?

MHFA Essentials is a one-day training focused on practical, foundational skills. MHFA Certification is a two-day training with additional education, discussion, scenarios and practical application. Successful completion and assessment of the Certification course leads to nationally recognized Mental Health First Aid certification.

Does everyone on our team need the same level of training?

Not necessarily. We can help you decide which employees would benefit from MHFA Essentials, which roles may benefit from Certification and how MHFA fits into a broader workplace mental health strategy.

Do you offer MHFA virtually and in person?

Yes. Most of our trainings, including MHFA, can be delivered in person or virtually. We'll help you choose the format that works best for your team.

Does MHFA training replace clinical care?

No. Mental Health First Aid builds the confidence to notice, respond and connect someone with support. It does not provide diagnosis, therapy or a substitute for professional care or emergency response.

What does MHFA training cost?

Pricing depends on the option you choose, participant count, format, location and materials. Contact us for a tailored proposal.

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