Family-to-Family

An evidence-based course for family and friends of individuals with serious mental health conditions
Two women talking while carrying snacks

In-person

Cost

Free

Ages

18+

Typical Class Size

12 people

Frequency

Weekly

Course Length

8 weeks

The research shows ...

that participants gain a greater understanding of mental illness, cope better, worry less, and feel empowered to advocate for better treatment and services.

Smiling woman listening to facilitator in classroom

This course might be for you if:

Topics we’ll cover

What to expect

To be seen, heard and understood

Often, friends, colleagues and even other family members can't understand what it's like. In a Family-to-Family class, it's truly different.

A time-tested model

Family-to-Family started in 1999, and the course content has been updated regularly.

A blended experience

The curriculum balances education with skill-building, while allowing for time to share individual stories.

A catalyst for connection

Lifelong friendships have sprouted from experiences shared in Family-to-Family.

Sample curriculum

Building soft skills while keeping a soft heart

Small tools and tips can make a big difference in relating to your loved one. 

Mental Illness 101

Get grounded in common symptoms, contributors and treatments.

Resources (external and internal)

Identify sources of support in the community and strength within yourself.

Roles within the family

Understand how interpersonal dynamics can shape your and your loved one's experience.

Story sharing

Sometimes, saying it out loud — to people who truly get it — makes all the difference.

What people in this group have to say

Frequently Asked Questions

No doubt, there’s much to consider.  

NAMI classes are completely free to participants. We believe everyone should have access to mental health support, regardless of their financial situation.

While most of our presentations and courses are held in-person, we do sometimes offer hybrid or all-virtual arrangements. If you’re looking for a virtual option and we don’t have one at the moment, we can also help you find another NAMI affiliate that is offering something virtually. Please just contact us at 719.473.8477 or send us an email to get the conversation started.

Classes are taught by NAMI-trained volunteer family members who have taken the course themselves. They are not professionals, but rather peers who personally understand the challenges of supporting a loved one with mental illness.

While we acknowledge that some of the information and the class may be helpful for your loved one, this class is specifically for family members. Peer-to-Peer is our class designed for people living with mental health conditions.

A separate NAMI program called Parents Helping Other Parents may be a better fit. But let’s talk about it — just give us a call at 719.473.8477.

Learn with other families today

Calling us is the best way to get registered for a course. We’ll answer any questions you have and give you additional details about the class. Did we mention we’re a friendly bunch?