Mental Health Ally Program

Workshops to become a Mental Health Ally are available for free to all UTC faculty and staff. Become an ally to support students and colleagues on campus. 

Trainings Include: 
QPR & C-SSRS Suicide Prevention Training  
Know what to say. Know what to ask. Know what to do. 
This combined training provides hands-on skills in recognizing suicide risk, asking about safety, using the C-SSRS to assess risk, and making appropriate referrals to support and emergency resources. Participants will learn how to respond with confidence and compassion when someone may be experiencing thoughts of suicide, while gaining practical tools to support a safer and more caring campus community.

Mental Health First Aid  
Be prepared to identify and respond to mental health and substance use challenges commonly experienced in a higher education setting. Our engaging workshop will help you decrease stigma, address tough challenges, recognize early signs of distress, and learn about compassion fatigue.

Psychological First Aid/SAFE-R 
The SAFE-R model is a structured approach used in Psychological First Aid (PFA) to  provide support and assistance to individuals in the immediate aftermath of a crisis, disaster, or traumatic event. It aims to reduce distress, promote a sense of safety and connection, and support short- and long-term recovery. 

Recognizing Mental Health Allies 

UTC is committed to building a campus community that actively supports student mental health and wellbeing. The Mental Health Ally Recognition Program celebrates employees who invest in learning the skills, knowledge, and tools needed to better support students in times of need.  

For completing each training, all participants receive a certificate of completion.  

For completing the Mental Health First Aid Training, participants will receive a Mental Health Ally sweatshirt.

Employees who complete all trainings will receive a Mental Health Ally sticker to be displayed in their work area and be recognized on the Center for Wellbeing website and featured in the campus newsletter for their dedication to fostering a supportive and compassionate UTC community. 

UTC’s Mental Health Allies for 2025/2026:
Alexandra Wills 
Andrew Akridge 
Ashleigh Pipes 
Ashton Kelley 
Charlene Simmons 
Chelsea Couch 
Cheryl Dickens Irene Hillman 
Jamie Newberg 
Jordan Harris 
Juan Aponte Ortiz 
Kaylee Spezia 
Marshall Parrent 
Mary Beth Ondrusek