About this Course
- This Mental Health First Aid course has been developed over 15 years by a combination of university researchers, professionals, and people with lived experience of mental distress and illness in Australia and New Zealand. Read more here.
- It is an accredited, international programme and has been presented to over 4 million participants in 24 countries. It is adapted under license in New Zealand to reflect New Zealand cultures, services, and statistics. Read more here.
- Stepping Stone Trust is accredited to provide the standard adult 2-day Mental Health First Aid course of 14 hours.
- Watch this video to get an idea of what the course has to offer.
- Course times: 9am – 4pm both days.
- Catering: Includes morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea.
Who should do this course
- Employees, Team Members, Managers, Supervisors, Team Leaders;
- Contractors who work with others;
- Sports Coaches, Sports Team Managers, Club Captains;
- Leaders of faith communities;
- First Aiders looking to extend their skills;
- Those seeking a professional development opportunity;
- Teachers, Tutors, Instructors, Volunteers;
- Counselors, Life Coaches, Mentors;
- Those looking to increase their confidence in helping those around them;
- Any adult responsible for the well-being of others, or looking to learn how to provide mental health first aid, with a view to helping others, whether in the workplace or their community.
Need a course tailored and delivered to your Workplace or Organisation?
Send an email to mhfa@stepstone.org.nz or phone 03 338 6390 and let us know your requirements. We can arrange courses to suit you and your organisation’s needs.
Next Courses coming up in 2023
We are excited to confirm our 2023 course dates.
Send an email with your details, preferred course dates, and any questions, to us at: mhfa@stepstone.org.nz and we will be in touch.
2023 Course Dates
Courses are held in Christchurch unless otherwise noted
April: Thursday 20th & Friday 21st – limited spaces available
May: Thursday 18th & Friday 19th – bookings now open
June: Fridays 16th & 23rd – bookings now open
July: Thursday 27th & Friday 28th – in Dunedin, limited spaces available
August: dates tbc – expressions of interest being taken
September: Friday 8th & 15th – bookings now open
October: Thursday 12th & Friday 13th – in Dunedin, limited spaces available
October: Thursday 26th & Friday 27th – limited spaces available
November: dates tbc – expressions of interest being taken
- To view or download the brochure click here.
How to enrol
- Download and complete the Registration Form and email it to mhfa@stepstone.org.nz (note: your place is not secured until fees are paid).
- Fee: $395.00 (this includes the Mental Health First Aid course book / manual, as well as morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea on both days).
- Payment: Please pay by direct credit to bank account 03-1703-0038712-000 then write ‘MHFA’ in Reference and your name in Particulars.
- Subsidies: occasionally we receive grants to provide part payment for course fees. Currently, we can offer significantly reduced rates if you work or volunteer in a church setting or community ministry or if you are a 24/7 worker. We also have a small hardship fund. Please mention in your email if any of these may apply to you or call reception on 03 338 6390 to discuss.
Course Presenters – accredited course facilitators
Hover over the Facilitator photos below to find out more about them.
Jess Lawless - Registered Child and Family Psychologist, working at Child, Adolescent and Family Community Services (CAF) North. Jess has an extensive background in Community Mental Health in both residential and community settings with adults and youth. She is highly regarded in the health sector as a dynamic Facilitator, who creates an inclusive and engaging learning environment, and is able to relate to people of all ages and backgrounds, with a special interest in Youth health and wellbeing.
Jess Lawless
Registered Psychologist
Janelle Butcher - Registered Social Worker, supporting those on a recovery journey at Hillmorton Hospital. Janelle is an engaging Facilitator and experienced Tutor, specialising in empowering women to progress their learning journey. She also works at the Women's Centre and Ara Institute of Canterbury, tutoring adult students. Janelle has an extensive background spanning many years in Mental Health and has a special interest in Women's Health.
Janelle Butcher
Registered Social Worker
Sean Pawson - Ecumenical Chaplain at Stepping Stone Trust, te Rōpū o te Taumata Kōhatu. Sean is a member of the New Zealand Healthcare Chaplains Association. He has significant experience working in community and residential mental health and many years of personal lived experience with depression and anxiety. He is a down-to-earth, engaging, insightful, and empathic facilitator with a special interest in the relationship between mental & spiritual/wairua health.