Reflections on Provider Training, Have a happy Thanksgiving. love, jesse

MY REFLECTIONS ON THE NAMI PROVIDER TRAINING

September to November 2002

We began training to teach this class in immersion training at a 4H retreat in Chevy Chase, Maryland more than a year ago. I eagerly committed to the ten-week class when the actual opportunity presented itself in late summer. Though I logged nearly three thousand miles on the road, in two out of town trips, I tried to stay focused on the class and continue to perform successfully in my regular employment.
Though the class fluctuated in participation, by the fourth week we settled down to a consistent group of about ten persons. I was most impressed by the willingness of class members to absorb new information or to take a new look at long held views. The discussions were serious and candid, with respect for consumers, family, and providers, in a spirit of give and take.
My only concern which I expressed to all, including National NAMI staff at the tenth week graduation class, there was not enough of the consumer angle “in their own words.” The NAMI Peer to Peer training supposedly covers these concerns. I look forward to seeing it brought to this area.

Jesse J. Price, Sr. November 27, 2002