We are an affiliate of NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and of NAMI New Jersey.
“We don’t do therapy. We do understanding.” -- Linda McGrath
"Before taking the Family-to-Family course, it seemed that no one understood the relentless burden of mental illness, but in Family-to-Family, everyone knew exactly what we were experiencing."
-- Tom Pyle
"A long, tough journey is easier when others who have traveled the path before share the trip with you."
-- Chomy Garces
“Family-to-Family teaches a new way of being. Blame and shame are taken away. We teach people to rely on each other by building a sense of community.” -- Michelle Zechner
Family–to-Family is a free 12-week course for family caregivers of adults with severe mental illnesses.
The class was developed about 20 years ago by NAMI National and has been taught to thousands of people across the US.
Kimme Carlos, one of our volunteer instructors, speaking of her experience and why she participates in NAMI's programs:
The course is taught by trained NAMl members who have lived with this experience and offers education and support for families and friends of people with mental illness.
The course teaches the knowledge and skills that family members need to cope more effectively.
Attend with other family members just like you in a confidential setting.
Gain insight into how mental illness affects your relative.
Take an eye-opening look inside some of today's current brain research related to mental illness.
Learn how families can become advocates for better treatments for their relatives.
Learn about the mental illness medications available and the latest treatment options.
Learn to cope with worry and stress; learn to focus on care for you as well as your loved ones.
Many describe the impact of this program as life changing. Join the over 150,000 individuals just like you, who have gained information, insight, understanding, and empowerment.
NAMI Mercer offers Family-to-Family in the spring and the fall at the NAMI Mercer Center and at other locations in the county.
Spring programs for 2012 start February 9 from 7 PM till 9:30 PM, for twelve consecutive weeks at NAMI Mercer Center and at Covenant Presbyterial Church, 471 Parkway Ave., Trenton.
The course is free, but registration is required. Call us at 609-799-8994 for more information.
Our Education Programs
NAMI Mercer offers several free education programs for consumers, family members, and the general public. Peer education classes draw on the actual experience of mental health consumers and family members who have learned to live well with their illnesses and have been extensively trained to help others. NAMI Mercer also hosts presentations by mental health professionals and other experts.
We are committed to providing persons with mental illness and their families vital information and excellent educational experiences to improve their quality of life and promote wellness. Classes also provide excellent opportunities for networking.
Now! Online registration for Family to Family available here.
