Workshop Description: Register Today
Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) is a research-backed approach designed for laypersons—those without formal mental health training—who may be in a position to recognize the warning signs of suicide in others. Similar to CPR for medical emergencies, QPR empowers participants to respond quickly and effectively during a mental health crisis. Ultimately, the aim is to create a network of trained individuals who can act as gatekeepers—people in the community who are able and willing to take action when someone may be at risk.
QPR Gatekeeper Training teaches everyday people how to recognize the signs that someone may be contemplating suicide and how to respond appropriately. The training covers the three simple steps—Question, Persuade, Refer—that can make a critical difference. Participants will learn how to identify verbal, behavioral, and situational clues; how to speak directly and compassionately to someone in distress; and how to connect that person to professional care. Using role play, discussion, and guided practice, the session is designed to break down stigma and build the confidence needed to intervene effectively. The workshop is accessible, practical, and designed for those who care about supporting mental health in their communities—even if they aren’t mental health professionals.
By attending these sessions, participants will:
Understand the basic warning signs and risk factors for suicide
Learn how to approach someone who may be in crisis using the QPR method
Gain confidence in referring individuals to appropriate mental health resources
Develop greater awareness and reduce stigma around mental health conversations
To accommodate the diverse time zones of our community members, we have set up the same session to take place at the dates and times listed below. You can select the option that works best for you during registration.
Option One
Date: Wed. 17 September 2025
Time: 12:00 GMT
Option Two: Repeats on 24 September.
Date: Wed. 24 September 2025
Time: 15:00 GMT
Suggested Audience/s: Teachers, Teaching Assistants, Principals, Nurses
Facilitator:
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Elmeka, Ed.S, NCSP is an international educational psychologist and school counselor with over 15 years of experience supporting students, educators, and school communities across the U.S., Asia, and Africa. Trained in educational neuropsychology and trauma-informed practices, she has served in multifaceted roles—school psychologist, counselor, learning support coordinator, and safeguarding leader—shaping inclusive systems that attend to the academic, emotional, and social development of all learners.
Elmeka specializes in building sustainable student support frameworks rooted in cultural responsiveness, restorative approaches, and equity-driven safeguarding. Her work has supported neurodivergent learners, students with significant and multiple disabilities, and LGBTQ+ youth in complex contexts. She has led professional learning initiatives across international schools, helping teams move from policy to practice in areas such as inclusive education, mental health, trauma care, and child protection.
As a regular facilitator with AISA, ISCA, CIS and ISS, Elmeka is widely respected for her ability to translate complex student support needs into practical, culturally grounded systems—strengthening the capacity of schools to serve every learner with dignity and care.