Support ~ Education ~ Advocacy

We believe that together we can improve the quality of life for all those whose lives are affected by mental illness in Berkshire county. Our education classes are taught by trained family volunteers at no cost to the participants. Registration is required. For further information regarding times and dates please contact Brenda at namibc.org or 413-443-1666

Family to Family is a free 12-week course about illnesses of the brain such as schizophrenia, major depression, bi-polar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxiety disorders. The course covers topics such as brain biology, problem solving, medications, developing empathy, better communication, self-care, recovery, advocacy, and a host of helpful resources. This is an essential guide to mental illness, an invaluable tool to putting all the pieces together.

“Family members who take the NAMI Family-to-Family course are better equipped to work with mental health clinicians in a collaborative manner.  My bottom-line recommendation? Take this course.  It will help you learn to cope successfully with a major challenge in your life, and that, in turn, will help your loved one as he or she works toward recovery.”

– Peter Weiden, M.D., author of Breakthroughs in Antipsychotic Medications

NAMI Basics, a six week course offered FREE to parents and caregivers of children or adolescents with mental illness.

Children's Challenging Behaviors is a FREE one-day workshop for families, educators, and professionals. This workshop provides the most complete and up to date information on childhood mental health disorders along with strategies for home and school, and includes resources, information, hope and encouragement. The goal of the workshop is to increase the awareness and knowledge base about children's mental illness to the adults involved in their lives.

The class is divided into sections including:

• A comprehensive explanation of brain biology
• An overview of childhood mental illness such as : ADHD, Autism spectrum, Anxiety Disorders, RAD, Mood Disorders (depression and bi-polar), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Self-harm, Eating Disorders, Suicide, Schizophrenia
• Educational Implications
• Emotional Impact on Families
• Crisis Planning
• Tips for parents
• Tips for educators
• Treatment Options, Medications, and Resources