Back to Enrollment page
Behavioral Health Responder (BHR) Program
Modules and Learning Focus
Each module, after the introduction, focuses on a defined set of applied skills. These modules are paired with a digital badge issued through Carroll University via Credly.
Module 1
The Role of the Behavioral Health Responder
Clarifies the scope, responsibilities, and boundaries of the Behavioral Health Responder role.
Module 2
Foundations of Effective Communication
Builds practical communication skills that support trust and reduce escalation. Focuses on active listening, perspective-taking, and adapting communication approaches during moments of distress.
Key skills:
Active listening
De-escalation communication
Perspective-taking
Trust-building

Digital badge: Behavioral Health Responder Communication Foundations
Module 3
Understanding Behavior Across the Lifespan
Examines how developmental stage and life experience influence behavior, coping, and regulation. Strengthens the ability to tailor responses across age groups and situations.
Key skills:
Developmental awareness
Contextual interpretation
Age- and stage-appropriate response strategies

Digital badge: Lifespan Psychology as Context for Behavioral Health Responding
Module 4
Trauma-Informed Responding
Focuses on recognizing how trauma can shape reactions to stress or crisis. Develops strategies that promote safety, support regulation, and reduce the risk of unintentionally intensifying distress.
Key skills:
Trauma-informed response strategies
Safety-focused responding
Supporting emotional and behavioral regulation

Digital badge: Trauma-Informed Responding for Behavioral Health Responders
Module 5
Mental Health and Substance-Related Concerns
Strengthens recognition of common mental health and substance-related challenges. Emphasizes empathetic response, stigma reduction, and appropriate referral within the responder role.
Key skills:
Recognition of mental health concerns
Recognition of substance use patterns and risk
Empathetic responding
Referral navigation

Digital badge: Psychopathology and Substance Use Foundations for Behavioral Health Responders
Module 6
Suicide Risk Awareness and Response
Builds confidence in identifying suicide warning signs and responding appropriately. Emphasizes direct questioning, immediate safety, and connection to resources.
Key skills:
Suicide risk recognition
Safety planning
Risk inquiry
Resource connection

Digital badge: Suicide Risk Assessment for Behavioral Health Responders
Module 7
Assessing and Stabilizing in Moments of Crisis
Develops practical strategies for assessing risk and supporting stabilization during highly charged situations. Focuses on de-escalation and emotional and behavioral regulation.
Key skills:
Situational risk assessment
Stabilization strategies
De-escalation techniques

Digital badge: Assessment and Stabilization for Behavioral Health Responders
Module 8
Creating Support Plans and Resource Connections
Builds skills for developing short-term support plans and facilitating next steps. Emphasizes collaboration, follow-through, and continuity of care beyond the immediate response.
Key skills:
Support planning
Resource navigation
Facilitating next steps and follow-through

Digital badge: Creating and Facilitating a Behavioral Health Plan
Module 9
Personal and Physical Safety
Emphasizes strategies that support responder safety and sustainability. Focuses on situational awareness, boundary-setting, and practices that reduce burnout and risk.
Personal safety
Situational awareness
Boundary-setting
Burnout and risk prevention strategies

Digital badge: Personal and Physical Safety for Behavioral Health Responders