Mental and behavioral health challenges are becoming increasingly common in outdoor and experiential education settings. The Behavioral First Responder (BFR) Level 1 certification course is designed to meet this moment. This immersive, skills-based training equips outdoor leaders, educators, and field staff with the tools they need to effectively navigate behavioral episodes, de-escalate tense situations, and support participant well-being in real-time.
Throughout the day, participants will explore topics such as anxiety and panic response, grounding techniques, crisis communication, and trauma-informed care—all contextualized for the outdoor environment. The course draws on evidence-based approaches from counseling, psychology, and experiential education, and includes hands-on simulations and scenario-based learning.
No prior mental health training is required, but attendees should have some experience leading or supervising groups in outdoor or experiential settings. This course is ideal for trip leaders, field instructors, camp administrators, and program managers who want to foster safer, more inclusive environments for their staff and participants.
Participants will leave with a certification, practical tools, and greater confidence in their ability to lead with compassion and competence.
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