Facilitator Training 2026

Discover a new way to care for yourself while giving to others by becoming more involved with DBSA. 

One of the best ways to start is by attending facilitator training. By becoming a trained facilitator, you will gain a deeper understanding of DBSA and the various opportunities available through the national center. 

In that light, we’re excited to invite you to participate in DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) Facilitator Training.

DBSA support groups play a vital role in providing hope, understanding, and connection for individuals living with depression and bipolar disorder. Facilitators are at the heart of this work, helping to create a safe and supportive space where people can share experiences and feel less alone.

This training will prepare you to:

  • Understand the DBSA peer-support model
  • Learn facilitation skills and best practices
  • Build confidence in leading or co-leading support groups
  • Connect with others who are passionate about mental health support

No prior facilitation experience is required—just a willingness to learn and a commitment to supporting others. Facilitating is always voluntary. There is no requirement to facilitate any groups unless you choose to.

If you’ve ever considered giving back to the mental health community or strengthening your facilitation skills, we would love to have you join us.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions.

DBSALehighValley@gmail.com

Experienced Facilitator Sessions

Date: Late February TBD upon responses of availability from facilitators.

Active & Passive Suicidal Ideation: Best Practices for DBSA Facilitators

DBSA facilitators are invited to attend an upcoming training session focused on understanding active and passive suicidal ideation and reviewing best-practice facilitator procedures for safely guiding group discussions on this topic.

This session will cover:

  • The distinction between active and passive suicidal ideation
  • How to facilitate supportive, contained discussions when suicidal thoughts are shared in group
  • DBSA’s role and boundaries when a member expresses suicidal ideation
  • Best practices for supporting a member who discloses suicidal thoughts, including situations involving elevated concern
  • When and how to escalate, pause discussion, and connect members to appropriate supports

This training is designed to strengthen facilitator confidence, reinforce DBSA policies, and ensure that our groups remain safe, supportive, and non-clinical peer environments while responding appropriately to high-risk disclosures.

All facilitators are strongly encouraged to attend.