Mental Health Training for Counties
In partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo), we’re helping to strengthen U.S. counties by investing in mental wellbeing. Together, we’re offering Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) through two flexible training options.
What Is MHFA?
MHFA is a skills-based training that teaches people how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges. The National Council for Mental Wellbeing delivers the program in the United States. MHFA helps counties build a foundation of support — before a crisis occurs.
Bring MHFA to Your County
Please fill out the form, and a member of our team will reach out with details on how to bring MHFA to your county.
Nationwide Reach, Local Results
MHFA isn’t just another training — it’s reshaping how counties support mental health at work and in the community. From large metro areas to rural communities, MHFA is helping counties strengthen their workforces and improve outcomes for staff and residents. Our partnership with NACo is making a difference — and your county can join the movement.
4.5 M+
trained in MHFA across the U.S.
1,700 +
U.S. counties have Mental Health First Aiders and Instructors.
90 %
of learners feel more confident responding to a mental health crisis.
A Culture Shift in County Government
MHFA isn’t just another training — it’s reshaping how counties support mental health at work.
Why Counties Choose MHFA
Counties across the U.S. are using MHFA to strengthen their skills, cut stigma and support mental health from the front office to first responders. Whether you’re starting small or training on a large scale, MHFA offers flexible, research-backed solutions.
Equip Counties To Respond With Confidence
Help counties recognize and respond to mental health challenges — early and well.
Support Wellbeing and Reduce Stigma
Build a community where mental health is known, respected and openly discussed.
Adapt the Training for Any Team
Courses can be delivered in person, online or blended — whatever works for your department.
Build Your County’s Training Capacity
Certify counties to teach MHFA courses and sustain mental wellbeing education from within.
Develop Future-focused Leadership
Empower leaders and high-potential staff with meaningful tools that fit your mission.
Make Training a Long-term Investment
Instructor certification is a scalable way to reach more staff over time.
Learning Options
Host a Training
A certified MHFA Instructor leads a course ranging from one hour to 8 hours for your county employees, with flexible scheduling and delivery options. It’s great for staff on any team, and perfect for those in public-facing or high-stress roles.
Get StartedTrain Staff as MHFA Instructors
Interested in creating your own mental health education initiative or program? Pick 6 to 16 staff members to become certified Adult MHFA Instructors, so your county can offer ongoing MHFA trainings led by your own team.
Get StartedVoices
Cathy Muse
Director, Public Promise Procurement, NACo EDGE
“Our partnership with MHFA is giving counties tools to take action — not just awareness. This training is necessary for a thriving workforce.”
Dow Constantine
County Executive, King County, Washington
“We started offering MHFA to our supervisors. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Employees feel confident in recognizing and responding to challenges.”
Toni Holmes
Toni Holmes, Director, Talent Management, Rockdale County, Georgia
“We brought it into all our trainings — public safety, supervisors, leadership. MHFA provided a different level of support alongside [the Employee Assistance Program].”
Ready to Get Started?
We’re here to help you find the right path for your department’s needs.
