Offering peer-led support is a unique calling.

The Anchor International Facilitator Training Program is an online, on-demand course equipping you to facilitate a mental health support group in your church or community. 

Anchor International

Facilitator Training Program

The Facilitator Training Program is an on-demand, video-based course for individuals planning to facilitate an Anchor International mental health support group.

This course consists of 3 modules with 14 video lessons, downloadable course resources, our Facilitator Skills & Resource Guide, and access to the complete Anchor International PDF Library. The total video playtime is 1.25 hours.

Module 1: Introduction to Mental Health Ministry

Who is Anchor International?

Discover how we’re helping churches and communities cultivate belonging for people with mental health struggles.

What is mental health ministry?

Explore what it means to walk alongside people in their mental health journey.

What are the Anchors of Wellness?

An introduction to the six foundational wellness principles used in our group settings.

Module 2: How to Facilitate Groups

What is a group facilitator?

Identifying the four core objectives that define your unique role.

What are the requirements for being a facilitator?

These simple prerequisites help ensure a positive experience for you and your group.

What skills do I need to be an effective facilitator?

Finding your rhythm and taking the pressure off of perfection.

What group programs does Anchor International offer?

Get to know the four group programs available for your church or organization.

What does a typical group look like?

Answering the most common questions about when, where, and how to facilitate groups.

Module 3: Creating a Culture of Safety

What is safe storytelling?

Understanding the importance of our words in a support group setting.

How do I promote safe storytelling?

Five key practices that will help your group establish and maintain a culture of safety.

Why should Christians talk about suicide?

A look at how talking about suicide in our churches and communities can help save lives.

How do we safely talk about suicide?

A starting point for using trauma-informed, destigmatizing language.

How can I help save a life?

A brief overview of five steps for suicide intervention.

What other safety preparations do I need?

Creating a safety plan for medical and emotional emergencies.

Anchor International PDF Library

Over 40 downloadable resources, including:

 

    • All Program Workbooks
    • All Program Workbooks in Spanish
    • Fearless Facilitator Guide
    • Anchor Drop-in Group Facilitator Guide
    • Anchors of Wellness Diagram
    • The Feeling Wheel
    • Group Member Certificates
    • Anchor Group Member Packet
    • Anchor Group Meeting Planner
    • Anchor Group Discussion Ideas
    • Group Sign-in Sheet
    • Fearless—Boundary Scenarios
    • Fearless—Wellness Wheel
    • Fearless—Self-Care Worksheet
    • Facilitation Phrases
    • Group Progression Stages
    • Group Safety Checklist
    • Group Structure
    • Meeting Logistics & Tips
    • Overcome Brochure
    • Bulletin Inserts
    • Program Flyers
    • … and More!

Ongoing Support for Certified Facilitators

Anchor International group facilitators are invited to join our online Facilitator Meet-ups, held the first Saturday of every month via Zoom. Led by experienced group facilitators, this is a place where you can ask questions, share experiences, and pray together in a community of peers.

Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way! Contact our team anytime for personalized support.

Lesson Preview:

What is a group facilitator?

Training Plans

Getting started is easy and free! Explore our Quick-Start training and resources to learn how to launch an Anchor International group program. For more in-depth training, check out our all-access training plan options for individuals and teams.

All proceeds from training and resources support Anchor International's mission to help individuals affected by mental health struggles find support and belonging in their local faith communities.

Thank you for supporting Anchor International's ministry! If program costs are a barrier for you or your church, please don't hesitate to reach out—we're here to help.