Family to Family

An 8-Week Class on Mental Health

Special Announcement: Due to Covid-19, Family to Family classes are now on Zoom. They are also now 8-weeks instead of 12. For more information, please use the contact information at the bottom of this section or fill out the contact form.

Many people are stressed and frustrated by situations in their homes related to a mentally ill relative. Medical needs and chaotic behaviors are disruptive; good intentions seem thwarted. It often seems like care, suggestions  and concern are not enough. There is a lot to understand about mental illnesses and NAMI Contra Costa offers education, hope and community.

NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people living with mental illness. It is a designated evidence-based program. Research shows that the program significantly improves the coping and problem-solving abilities of the people closest to an individual living with a mental health condition.

NAMI Family-to-Family is taught by NAMI-trained family members who have been there, and includes presentations, discussion and interactive exercises.

NAMI Family-to-Family not only provides critical information and strategies for taking care of the person you love, but you’ll also find out that you’re not alone. Recovery is a journey, and there is hope.

The group setting of NAMI Family-to-Family provides mutual support and shared positive impact—you can experience compassion and reinforcement from people who understand your situation. You can also help others through your own experience. In the program, you’ll learn about:

  • How to manage crises, solve problems and communicate effectively
  • Taking care of yourself and managing your stress
  • Developing the confidence and stamina to provide support with compassion
  • Finding and using local supports and services
  • Up-to-date information on mental health conditions and how they affect the brain
  • Current treatments, including evidence-based therapies, medications and side effects
  • The impact of mental illness on the entire family

We are working to make as many courses available throughout the county as possible. Our volunteer teaching team is comprised of over 35 individuals, representing English, Spanish and Mandarin-speaking educators. We continually seek to develop more opportunities of education and support in our various county sectors.

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Want to Register For Classes, Groups, or Services?

Follow these steps to get registered with a class, group, or service that fits your needs.

Read

Read about the different groups, classes and services.

Fill Out Our Form

Fill out our form to be screened as a participant for the class, group, or service you are interested in.

Register

Receive directions from the coordinator on how to register with the class.

Have Questions About Family to Family?

Feel free to contact any of the following individuals below about questions directly or fill out our online form here: Online Form

Family to Family in English

Marie Kamali
(925) 942-0767
marie.kamali@namicontracosta.org

Family to Family in Spanish

Ruth Hernandez
(925) 765-8206
latinX@namicontracosta.org

Family to Family in Mandarin Chinese

Shelly Ji
(925) 765-8232
mandarin@namicontracosta.org

Family to Family Updates

A new Family to Family class offered by popular demand! Zoom Program Beginning Feb 21, 2024 Hosted on Thursdays from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM, an 8-week course*
A new Family to Family class offered by popular demand! Zoom Program Beginning on January 25, 2024 Hosted on Thursdays from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM, an 8-week course*