The Future of BFR is Local—And You Can Lead the Way
Alpenglow is moving toward a democratized course delivery model to meet the growing demand for mental health training in Experiential Education. This will allow for building more course capacity, regional training, and more accessible course offerings. We believe this new phase of the Behavioral First Responder Certification will help reduce barriers to essential courses and, more rapidly, build capacity for behavior management and mental health promotion across Experiential Education.
This new model responds to the growing need and demand for mental health training in experiential education. This path forward will allow Alpenglow to “certify” individuals to deliver the Behavioral First Responder Certification courses in their area and on their own schedule. These instructors can either offer “open-enrollment” courses or go to specific program sites and offer staff training for your organization.
We will continue to offer the BFR at both Level 1 and Level 2 in online formats; however, this new method will enable learners to experience the in-person version of the course near their homes and workplaces.
Why Become a BFR Instructor
Becoming a certified BFR Instructor expands access to mental health training in Experiential Education and provides meaningful professional development. Instructors will gain valuable skills in facilitation, behavior management, and mental health literacy while offering courses at their own pace and in their own region.
Who can Qualify?
To maintain the highest standards, Alpenglow requires individuals interested in delivering the BFR courses to possess a unique and elevated set of standards. Our instructors must have a complementary mix of experience in delivering Experiential Education Programs and mental health training. This enables our patented blend of educational experiences that focus on applied behavioral and mental health skills for the unique environments in which we operate, whether in the art therapy classroom, a summer camp setting, or in remote backcountry locations.
To further ensure the high-quality educational experiences people expect when taking the BFR, we require our instructional staff to attend one annual meeting each year. During this meeting, we share curriculum updates, refine course designs, and continue to enhance the experiential nature of the learning process. It is also when we integrate the latest research on behavior and mental health related to the BFR, guaranteeing that learners receive the most accurate, up-to-date course content available. This approach helps prevent the curriculum from becoming stagnant and ensures that recertification includes new, useful skills applicable to your staff, campers, or students.
Final Thoughts
If you believe you, or someone you know, would like to become an Alpenglow Instructor, please visit our website for more details on the qualifications and requirements for delivering these courses. We hope this evolution in our organization and course design will enhance the capacity of all fields within Experiential Education, allowing us to create rich student experiences where learners feel safe and maximize their learning potential. Developing behavioral and mental health skills is crucial for all of us, and by doing so, we support the students we serve, ultimately enabling us to provide life-changing experiences for those with whom we work.
Ready to become a BFR Instructor? Click the button below to learn more and apply!
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