Montana Family Support Program
The Montana Family Support Program is a workforce development program focused on preparing paraprofessionals to support youth and families impacted by opioid and substance use disorders through foundational learning, supervised experience, and specialized training.
Montana Family Support Program at a Glance
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Eligibility: |
Montana resident, 18+, High school diploma or GED preferred; employer sponsorship required for the 25-hour supervised practicum and a commitment to supporting youth and families impacted by substance use disorders. |
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Format: |
A mix of online and live coursework plus a 25-hour supervised experience, 12 months to finish. |
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Cost: |
This training is offered at no expense to participants, and a stipend of $ 6,000 may be provided to cover additional training beyond this course. |
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Enrollment: |
Rolling admission basis |
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Credential: |
Montana Family Support certificate from Montana State University |
Montana Family Support Program Overview
The Montana Family Support Program (MFSP) is a year-long training and workforce development opportunity designed to prepare individuals to support youth and families impacted by Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Through a layered, practical training model, participants gain real-world experience and essential skills to work as behavioral health paraprofessionals in communities across Montana.
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Core Competency Course Please note that some Core Competency Courses require employee sponsorship and the completion of supervised experience. |
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Developmental Training Sessions |
This training is designed for individuals who are passionate about community well-being and want to play a critical role in Montana’s behavioral health system, especially in rural and underserved areas.
What You’ll Learn
Participants will graduate with specialized skills to support youth and families navigating the challenges of OUD and SUD. Training includes:
- Foundational Behavioral Health Knowledge: Complete a core certification aligned with your interests and career goals
- Family-Focused Support Strategies: Learn developmental, trauma-informed approaches tailored to working with youth and
families
- Evidence-Based Interventions: Receive training in national best-practice models, including MOAB, MHFA, ASIST,
and QPR
- Workforce Readiness: Build the professional, communication, and self-regulation skills needed for long-term success in behavioral health roles
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Montana Family Support Program are equipped to step into essential, community-based roles that support the behavioral health and well-being of youth and families. This training prepares individuals for work in schools, recovery centers, youth programs, healthcare clinics, tribal organizations, and family support services, especially in rural and high-need areas.
As the demand for behavioral health paraprofessionals continues to grow, this program offers a powerful entry point into a meaningful and sustainable career. Participants finish with in-demand certifications, real-world experience, and a strong foundation for long-term success in the behavioral health field.
How to Enroll
Enrollment occurs on a rolling basis.
Courses start date is typically determined by which Core Competency Course is selected.
*Some Core Competency Courses require employee sponsorship, which must be secured
prior to enrollment.
Questions
For more information or to find out
how you or your organization can get involved, please contact:
Beth Ann Carter
Assistant Director, Behavioral Health Workforce
📧 beth.carter@montana.edu | 📞 406-925-1261
