Programs & Services

Training & Technical Assistance for Behavioral Health Professionals

Train your team with peer-informed, trauma-aware practices that improve behavioral health outcomes and promote recovery-oriented care.

A professional training session with behavioral health experts collaborating and engaging in interactive learning, highlighting the Training & Technical Assistance programs at Mental Health Partnerships.

About Our Training & Technical Assistance

Elevating Behavioral Health Through Peer-Led Expertise

Training & Technical Assistance at Mental Health Partnerships (MHP) is a professional development initiative designed to help providers, agencies, and organizations enhance their mental health services. Our programs blend firsthand peer experience with evidence-based approaches, equipping participants to deliver more compassionate, informed, and person-centered care. Whether you run a small nonprofit in Southeastern Pennsylvania or manage a larger healthcare network, we offer tailored training solutions that bridge the gap between theory and real-world practice.

Why Focus on Peer-Informed Training?

The landscape of behavioral health is changing, with increasing recognition of how peer-led or peer-informed perspectives can radically improve outcomes. Certified Peer Specialists and people with lived experience bring authentic insights into the challenges and triumphs of mental health recovery—knowledge that no textbook can replicate. By weaving these perspectives into our training, we champion a culture of empathy, reduce stigma, and ensure that professional staff better understand the human side of treatment and support.

Core Training Offerings

  • Trauma-Informed Care: Learn to identify signs of trauma, adapt environments to promote safety, and incorporate resilience-building strategies.
  • Peer Support Integration: Discover best practices for hiring, training, and supervising Peer Specialists within clinical settings.
  • Diversity & Cultural Competency: Gain skills to respect cultural nuances and address disparities in mental health services.
  • Recovery-Oriented Practice: Shift away from symptom management toward holistic, strengths-based models of care.

Tailored Technical Assistance

Beyond stand-alone workshops or lectures, MHP offers hands-on technical assistance for organizations committed to system-level transformation. Our experts collaborate with your leadership team to conduct needs assessments, streamline workflows, and develop actionable strategies that embed recovery principles throughout your policies and practices. This could involve everything from revising intake processes to designing peer-led group curricula and implementing ongoing staff development plans.

We also specialize in guiding agencies through cultural shifts, helping staff adapt to new roles for Peer Specialists or adjusting hierarchical structures to foster genuine collaboration. This deeper-level work often results in more cohesive teams, improved staff retention, and better outcomes for service users.

Interactive Learning & Real-Time Feedback

Our Training & Technical Assistance approach isn’t confined to dry PowerPoints. We emphasize experiential learning, where participants engage in role-plays, group discussions, and scenario-based problem-solving. For instance, a module on de-escalation might involve live demonstrations of how to respond calmly to someone in crisis. Afterwards, a debrief session allows participants to reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and how to carry those insights into daily practice. This iterative cycle of learning and feedback fosters quick adaptation and continuous improvement among staff.

Driving Organizational Growth & Employee Satisfaction

Organizations that invest in peer-informed, recovery-oriented training often see boosts in employee morale and retention. Staff members feel more empowered when they understand the ‘why’ behind certain protocols and see firsthand how peer-led strategies can transform client outcomes. In some settings, incorporating Peer Specialists has also led to more efficient use of resources, reducing hospital admissions and crisis interventions. This, in turn, frees up capacity for providers to innovate and expand services.

Moreover, the integration of these methods positions agencies as leaders in modern behavioral health care, aligning them with state and national trends that emphasize client choice, autonomy, and inclusion. Funders and accreditation bodies increasingly look for evidence of trauma-informed, peer-supported, and culturally sensitive practices, making these trainings a wise investment for long-term sustainability.

Collaboration with Local & National Partners

MHP collaborates with various stakeholders, from government agencies to academic institutions, to ensure our trainings reflect cutting-edge research and policies. We also invite guest speakers—such as experienced Peer Specialists, clinicians, or policy advocates—to share their expertise. These partnerships deepen our collective knowledge base, broaden the scope of topics we can cover, and provide participants with richer networking opportunities.

Additionally, we encourage organizations to share feedback and success stories, fueling a community of practice across Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania. By continuously evaluating outcomes, we refine our training materials to stay relevant and impactful, thus creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout the region.

Setting the Stage for Lasting Impact

Ultimately, MHP’s Training & Technical Assistance aims to transform the culture of care within behavioral health organizations. Whether it’s teaching frontline workers how to practice motivational interviewing or helping managers craft new peer-led programs, our offerings instill a spirit of collaboration, respect, and empowerment. Providers walk away with

Mental Health Programs & Services

Peer-Centered Support for Every Step of the Journey

Mental Health Partnerships offers a full continuum of trauma-informed, peer-led programs designed to meet people where they are. Whether you're seeking direct support, caregiver resources, professional training, or systems-level advocacy, our services are built to empower individuals and strengthen communities across every stage of recovery.

Our Impact by the Numbers

Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities

From peer-led recovery programs to statewide advocacy and education, our work touches thousands of lives every year. These numbers reflect our deep commitment to accessible, compassionate, and person-centered mental health support across Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania.

8,480

individuals and families served

34

active programs across the region

1,106

Peer Specialists trained each year

5,801

people supported through direct services

3000+

individuals reached monthly through homeless outreach

1,573

engaged in community advocacy

Core Values That Inspire Change

Guiding Principles for Empowerment and Growth

At the heart of our mission lies a steadfast commitment to core values that shape every aspect of our work. These values—rooted in hope, empowerment, and respect—guide us in fostering environments where individuals can thrive, exercise self-determination, and pursue lifelong learning. By embracing a holistic, non-judgmental, and culturally aware approach, we empower individuals to achieve their full potential and contribute to their communities.

Your Path to Wellness Begins Here

Together, We Build Hope

At Mental Health Partnerships, we are dedicated to fostering hope and resilience. Our mission is to create a supportive environment where individuals can regain control of their mental health and live fulfilling lives. We offer personalized care that aligns with your unique needs and helps you connect with a community that cares.

Stay Informed, Stay Empowered

Latest News, Inspiring Stories, and Upcoming Events

Discover the latest news, inspiring stories, and upcoming events at Mental Health Partnerships. Our blog offers expert insights and practical advice on mental health, while our events connect you with a community of support. Stay informed and join us in advocating for mental health and recovery.

Councilmember Jamie Gauthier meets with community members at A New Life advocacy center
President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter pictured together honoring their advocacy legacy
Rosalynn Carter seated in spotlight for her fearless work in dismantling mental health stigma
Mental Health Partnerships boardroom meeting on advancing mental health in Pennsylvania
Pink cancer ribbon with support resources for those caring for loved ones with cancer
Two peer supporters sharing smiles and warmth in a Philadelphia community mental health program
Peer specialists gathered in a training session to support the future of peer support programs
Group of advocates during Peer Support Day discussing findings from a regional mental health survey
Parents and caregivers participating in fall Parenting Plus mental health education program
Advocates promoting awareness about peer support inclusion in Medicare legislation
Launch of the Supporting Young Minds guide offering mental health tools for families and youth
Campaign materials promoting mental health priorities for Pennsylvania’s 2024 general election
Woman bonding with a horse during an equine therapy session supporting mental health recovery
College student preparing for a new semester with a mental health checklist on a desk
Celebrating Black excellence in mental health advocacy with community leaders and changemakers
Young woman holding graduation cap after completing internship at Mental Health Partnerships
Portrait of Bebe Moore Campbell celebrating National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
Philadelphia residents staying safe during a heatwave on designated Code Red days
Philadelphia residents coping with extreme heat, advocating safety during Code Red alerts
Dr. Jeannine Lisitski smiles while sharing her vision as CEO of Mental Health Partnerships
Child using tablet, symbolizing the need for safe digital habits and social media balance
Illustration showing emotional expression as part of the 'Speechless' naming your emotions campaign
Flat lay of a mental health toolkit with essential items for managing well-being
Public discussion on mental health and housing in the 2024–25 Pennsylvania state budget
Person lifting weights representing the connection between physical fitness and mental well-being
Woman practicing deep breathing outdoors for Stress Awareness Month relaxation tips
Women leaders recognized for their contributions during Women’s History Month and mental health efforts
Homeless individual bundled for winter, illustrating a call to compassion and support
People in a supportive group session on World Mental Health Day highlighting peer support
Voter casting ballot in support of mental health advocacy during Pennsylvania’s 2023 election
Children standing together outdoors symbolizing unity in response to youth mental health crisis
Previous
Next
Voices of Our Community

Real Stories of Hope & Gratitude

Hear directly from individuals whose lives have been touched by our programs and services. Whether it’s case management, family support, or peer-led guidance, these stories showcase the power of compassionate care and unwavering belief in every person’s potential for recovery and growth.

Ready to Begin?

Let’s Take the Next Step Together

At MHP, we understand that the journey to mental wellness can feel overwhelming. With peer-led support, proven resources, and a warm, caring community, we’re here to guide you through every step—so you never have to walk this path alone.