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What is NAMI’s "Family-to-Family Education Program" ?

The NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program is a free, 12-week course for family caregivers of individuals with severe mental illnesses. The course covers the clinical treatment of these illnesses and teaches the knowledge and skills that family members need to cope more effectively.

  • The course is taught by trained and certified family members 

  • All instruction and course materials are free to class participants

  • Over 115,000 family members have graduated from this national program

  • Only such program in North Central Florida

Click Here for Announcement Bulletin and Starting Dates for the next course in Gainesville and North Central Florida (PDF download)

What does the course include?

  • Current information about schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, and co-occurring brain disorders and addictive disorders

  • Up-to-date information about medications, side effects, and strategies for medication adherence

  • Current research related to the biology of brain disorders and the evidence-based, most effective treatments to promote recovery

  • Gaining empathy by understanding the subjective, lived experience of a person with mental illness

  • Learning in special workshops for problem solving, listening, and communication techniques

  • Acquiring strategies for handling crises and relapse

  • Focusing on care for the caregiver: coping with worry, stress, and emotional overload

  • Guidance on locating appropriate supports and services within the community

  • Information on advocacy initiatives designed to improve and expand services

What people
have to say

“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

Personal Stories

General Information

NAMI Gainesville / NAMI North Central Florida is one entity and is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

For questions about website e-mail : webmaster@namigainesville.org

©2008 NAMI North Central Florida / NAMI Gainesville