Training

Peer Support (PS) Training and Consultation

We offer a commissioner-approved, 30-hour in-person Peer Support Training designed to equip team members with the skills and confidence to effectively support their peers. This comprehensive program focuses on practical tools, communication techniques, and real-world application within first responder environments.

To ensure continued growth and effectiveness, we meet with our Peer Support teams quarterly and provide a 10-hour Peer Support Refresher Training to reinforce key concepts and introduce updated best practices.

In addition, Peer Support teams have access to ongoing consultation, including direct phone support from our Clinical Director. This ensures your team receives expert guidance, feedback, and support when navigating complex situations—strengthening both individual responders and the team as a whole.

Topics Covered in Peer Support Training
Our Peer Support Training is designed specifically for first responder environments, combining practical skills with real-world application. Key topics include:

  • Foundations of Peer Support
    • Role, responsibilities, and boundaries of a peer supporter
    • Ethics and confidentiality
  • Trauma & Stress Awareness
    • Acute stress, cumulative trauma, and critical incident impact
    • Signs and symptoms of PTSD and burnout
    • Trauma-informed approaches to support
  • Effective Communication Skills
    • Active listening and empathy
    • Building trust and rapport
    • Asking the right questions and avoiding common pitfalls
  • Crisis Intervention
    • Recognizing crisis situations
    • Suicide awareness, prevention, and response
    • De-escalation techniques
  • Resilience & Coping Strategies
    • Teaching healthy coping skills
    • Promoting emotional regulation and mental wellness
    • Supporting long-term resilience
  • Substance Use Awareness
    • Identifying warning signs
    • Supporting peers in seeking help
  • Family & Relationship Impact
    • Understanding how the job affects home life
    • Supporting peers navigating personal challenges
  • Referral & Resource Navigation
    • When and how to connect peers with professional help
    • Utilizing internal and external resources
  • Team Dynamics & Program Development
    • Building and maintaining an effective Peer Support Team
    • Leadership, collaboration, and program sustainability
  • Self-Care for Peer Supporters
    • Preventing compassion fatigue
    • Maintaining personal well-being while helping others

This training ensures peer supporters leave prepared, confident, and equipped to provide meaningful, informed support within their departments.

Is Certification Provided?
Yes. Participants who complete the 30-hour initial Peer Support Training will receive a certificate of completion recognizing their participation in a commissioner-approved program. This certification reflects their training in core peer support principles and readiness to serve in a peer support role within their department.

Certificates are also provided for those who complete the 10-hour Peer Support Refresher Training, demonstrating continued education and commitment to maintaining effective peer support skills.

Customized Training Solutions
We offer tailored training programs designed to meet the specific needs of departments and conference settings. In addition, we provide MN POST-approved, in-person mental wellness trainings focused on supporting first responders and public safety professionals.

We are also expanding our offerings and plan to make select trainings available directly through our website in the near future, increasing accessibility and convenience for departments and individuals alike. (Soooo, we need to get teh website ready for those recorded trainings)

How Do I Request a Custom Training?
Requesting a custom training is simple. You can reach out to our team directly to discuss your department’s or organization’s specific needs, goals, and scheduling preferences. We’ll work closely with you to design a training that is relevant, practical, and aligned with your team’s challenges.

To get started, you can:

  • Contact us through our website inquiry form
  • Call our office to speak with a team member
  • Email us with details about your training request

Once we connect, we’ll guide you through the process—from identifying objectives to scheduling and delivery—ensuring a seamless and valuable training experience tailored to your group.

POST-approved trainings are listed on the website https://mn.gov/post/applicants/courses.jsp or you can inquire directly by emailing info@sunrisewellness.net

Interested in Training?

Bloomington | Isanti
Otsego | Inver Grove Heights

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