Training and Certification

Well-being workers are certified through a training program, using the mwTool to screen and triage, with 94% sensitivity, for the presence of a mental health or substance use disorder.  The platform then guides the well-being worker in providing evidence-based treatments for mild to moderate depression, anxiety, substance use and suicide risk, and to refer those with severe disorders to more intensive interventions as needed. The platform supports monitoring clinical symptoms, as well as indicators of impact. Further, well-being workers are trained to assess and address social determinants of health through education and connection to resources such as entitlements, tax credits, and housing programs.

 The training consists of lectures, seminars, webinars, and hands-on workshops covering topics such as understanding psychiatric disorders, prevention and treatment of mental disorders, cultural competence, and evidence-based practices. Additionally, participants receive training in clinical interviewing and psychological assessment, as well as in the use of specialized software and tools. Finally, participants receive education on research design principles, data collection and analysis, and grant writing.

In order to become certified in the ENGAGE program at Columbia University Department of Psychiatry, you must complete a free, online training program. This training program can be completed online or in person, and upon completion, you will be awarded certification. Additionally, in order to maintain certification, you must complete continuing education credits every three years.