Creating More Trusted Helpers.
Evidence-based training that equips adults and teens to recognize mental health challenges and connect others to support.
About This Training
Building A Stronger Support Network.
Youth and Teen Mental Health First Aid are nationally recognized, evidence-based training programs that equip adults and teens with the skills to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges.
By building knowledge, confidence, and compassion, these trainings strengthen the support system around young people—helping create safer, more connected schools, families, and communities.
Training is available in person, virtually, or through blended learning formats, making it accessible for schools, organizations, and community groups.
Training Options
Youth Mental Health First Aid.
Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) teaches adults how to recognize when a young person may be struggling, respond appropriately, and connect them with professional or community-based support.
Designed for adults who work with or care for youth ages 12–18, this nationally recognized certification helps participants become trusted helpers and supportive adults in a young person’s life.
Teen Mental Health First Aid.
Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) is a peer-focused training program that teaches students how to recognize when a friend may be struggling and respond safely and supportively.
Participants learn how to listen, encourage help-seeking, and connect peers with trusted adults while understanding the importance of boundaries and self-care.
Who This Training Is For
Adults & Teens Who Want To Make A Difference.
Youth Mental Health First Aid
Ideal for:
- Parents and caregivers
- Teachers and school staff
- Coaches and athletic leaders
- Youth group leaders
- Camp counselors
- Health and human services professionals
- Community volunteers working with youth
Teen Mental Health First Aid
Ideal for:
- High school students
- Peer leaders
- Student ambassadors
- Athletic teams
- Student organizations
- Youth leadership groups
Practical Skills That Save Conversations.
What Participants Learn:
Recognize Warning Signs
Identify common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges in young people.
Respond with Confidence
Learn practical action steps for approaching, supporting, and assisting someone who may be struggling.
Connect People to Help
Understand when and how to encourage professional support and trusted adult involvement.
Reduce Stigma
Build understanding, empathy, and confidence when talking about mental health.
Promote Hope & Recovery
Encourage healthy coping strategies and support positive mental wellbeing.
Certification
Earn National Certification.
Participants who successfully complete Youth Mental Health First Aid or Teen Mental Health First Aid receive nationally recognized certification.
The training provides practical skills, evidence-based tools, and increased confidence to support the mental wellbeing of young people in everyday settings.
Bring Mental Health First Aid To Your Organization.
The Ryan Bartel Foundation offers customized training opportunities for schools, businesses, youth-serving organizations, community groups, and other partners.
We work closely with organizations to determine the best format, schedule, and training approach for their audience and goals.
Available formats include:
- In-person training
- Virtual training
- Blended learning options
- School-based programs
- Community group trainings
Our Program Trainer
Meet Our Youth And Teen Mental Health First Aid Trainer.
Lacey Rosenbaum, Ph.D.
Program Director
Dr. Lacey Rosenbaum serves as Program Director for the Ryan Bartel Foundation, where she leads training initiatives, program development, and research and evaluation efforts that strengthen youth mental wellness. She oversees the Foundation’s mental health literacy, suicide prevention, and facilitator training programs, including Youth Mental Health First Aid and Teen Mental Health First Aid.
Lacey is passionate about equipping adults with the knowledge and skills to recognize when a young person may be struggling and connect them with appropriate support. She is a National Trainer for both Youth and Teen Mental Health First Aid and has trained educators, mental health professionals, youth-serving adults, and community leaders across the country.
Prior to joining the Ryan Bartel Foundation, Lacey served as Director of Curricula and Research for Mental Health First Aid USA at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, where she led the development, research, and evaluation of youth-focused MHFA programs, including teen Mental Health First Aid. She holds a PhD in International Psychology with a concentration in Trauma Services from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from George Mason University.
FAQs
No. Mental Health First Aid does not train participants to diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Instead, it teaches people how to recognize concerns, provide initial support, and connect someone with appropriate help.
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed for adults who support young people ages 12–18. Teen Mental Health First Aid is designed for high school students and focuses on supporting peers while involving trusted adults when needed.
Yes. Schools, community groups, nonprofits, and other organizations can schedule private trainings tailored to their audience and needs.
Training fees vary depending on the course type, training format, and whether the training is offered through an open enrollment session or a private organizational partnership. The Ryan Bartel Foundation works to keep training accessible and may offer grant-funded or reduced-cost opportunities when available. Please contact us for current pricing and group training rates.
