Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Essentials is a streamlined training program being offered to administrative staff working within Primary Health Care.
The program builds practical skills and confidence to support patients experiencing mental health challenges or crises. It also highlights the importance of self-care, maintaining healthy boundaries, staying within your role, and knowing when and how to connect patients with appropriate professional supports.
MHFA Essentials, developed by Opening Minds, provides a strong foundation in MHFA principles without formal assessment or certification, making it a time‑efficient and practical learning option. The training is interactive and delivered in a virtual classroom format (not a webinar).
Who Should Register
Administrative staff are encouraged to register if they:
- Are employed within the Primary Health Care system (Nova Scotia Health employment is not required).
- Have received approval from their manager or lead to participate in all aspects of the training.
- Can attend two 3.5‑hour virtual classroom sessions (7 hours total). Coverage for your administrative role is required during training time.
- Have identified mental health as a learning need within their role.
Upcoming Training Dates
Fall 2026:
Tuesday, September 22nd & Tuesday, September 29th, 2026 from 12:30pm-4:00pm (7 hours total)
Winter 2026:
Friday, November 20th & Friday, November 27th, 2026 from 9:00am-12:30pm (7 hours total)
- Click here to register
To learn more about the program, visit:
MHFA Essentials (Online) | Mental Health First Aid
For additional questions, please contact:
PHCPracticeSupport@nshealth.ca
