FMHP Handbook

  • The Future Mental Health Professionals (FMHP) is a student organization dedicated to preparing students for careers in counseling, psychology, social work, and behavioral health. Through leadership development, hands-on training, competitions, and community advocacy, FMHP equips students with the skills needed to make an impact in the mental health field.

    Our Mission: To inspire and empower the next generation of mental health professionals by providing education, leadership opportunities, and practical experiences that prepare students for meaningful careers in mental health.

  • To maintain active membership in FMHP, members must:

    • Be a junior high or high school student in good academic standing.

    • Attend at LEAST one meeting or event monthly.

    • Participate in at least one FMHP competition, project, or training per year.

    • Engage in mental health advocacy and community service initiatives.

    • Complete the Youth Mental Health Peer Training

  • Future Mental Health Professionals (FMHP)
    Code of Conduct

    As a member of the Future Mental Health Professionals (FMHP) CTSO, you are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect. By adhering to this Code of Conduct, you contribute to a positive, supportive, and inclusive environment for all members.

    1. Respect & Inclusivity

    ✔ Treat all members, advisors, and professionals with respect and kindness.
    ✔ Promote an inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals, regardless of background, identity, or experience.
    ✔ Refrain from any form of bullying, discrimination, or harassment in person or online.

    2. Ethical Behavior & Confidentiality

    ✔ Uphold honesty and integrity in all FMHP activities, events, and competitions.
    ✔ Respect confidentiality when discussing mental health topics and individuals' personal experiences.
    ✔ Do not share sensitive or private information about others without permission.

    3. Professionalism & Leadership

    ✔ Demonstrate professional conduct in meetings, events, and interactions with mentors and peers.
    ✔ Engage in constructive discussions and feedback while maintaining a positive attitude.
    ✔ Be punctual, prepared, and actively participate in FMHP activities and projects.

    4. Social Media & Public Representation

    ✔ Represent FMHP in a positive and respectful manner online and offline.
    ✔ Use social media responsibly—do not post offensive, harmful, or inappropriate content.
    ✔ Obtain consent before recording, sharing, or posting images/videos of members or events.

    5. Community Engagement & Advocacy

    ✔ Actively promote mental health awareness and advocate for mental well-being in your community.
    ✔ Support FMHP's mission and initiatives through volunteer work, education, and outreach.
    ✔ Encourage open discussions about mental health while respecting different viewpoints.

    6. Role as a Peer Supporter

    ✔ FMHP members are not licensed mental health practitioners and cannot provide counseling, therapy, or any form of treatment.
    ✔ Members may offer peer support and active listening but should always refer individuals to a trusted adult, school counselor, or mental health professional if needed.
    ✔ Avoid giving mental health diagnoses, medical advice, or personal opinions as a substitute for professional help.

    7. Violation of Code of Conduct

    Any member found violating this Code of Conduct may face consequences, including but not limited to:
    ⚠ Verbal or written warnings
    ⚠ Suspension from FMHP activities
    ⚠ Termination of membership
    Serious violations will be reviewed by FMHP leadership and advisors. Members have the right to a fair review process before disciplinary actions are taken.

    If you witness a violation of this Code of Conduct, please report it to an FMHP advisor or leadership team member. All reports will be handled with confidentiality and fairness.

  • To ensure the sustainability and growth of the FMHP program, all participating members are required to pay yearly dues. These dues contribute to scholarships, certifications, and other FMHP activities, supporting the program’s mission and enhancing opportunities for members.

    Yearly Dues

    • Each member is required to submit their annual dues by the designated deadline to maintain active status within the program.

    • The dues will be allocated towards:

      • Scholarships – Financial assistance for students who demonstrate need or excellence in the field.

      • Certifications – Support for members pursuing relevant certifications to advance their knowledge and careers.

      • FMHP Activities – Funding for workshops, training sessions, community outreach initiatives, and other program events.

    Donations

    The FMHP program welcomes donations from members, alumni, and external supporters. These donations can be directed toward:

    • Additional Scholarships – Providing more opportunities for deserving students.

    • Program Enhancements – Improving resources, materials, and experiences offered within FMHP.

    • Community Outreach – Supporting mental health awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts.

    Fundraisers

    Throughout the year, FMHP will host various fundraising events to supplement financial support for scholarships, certifications, and program activities. Fundraising initiatives may include:

    • Charity events

    • Silent auctions

    • Crowdfunding campaigns

    • Merchandise sales

    • Community-sponsored events

    These financial contributions help sustain FMHP’s commitment to excellence and provide members with valuable opportunities to grow personally and professionally.

  • As an FMHP member, you gain access to:

    ✔ Career exploration in counseling, psychology, and social work.
    ✔ Leadership opportunities .at the local, state, and national levels.
    ✔ Certifications & training in mental health first aid, crisis intervention, and more.
    ✔ Competitions & scholarship opportunities.
    ✔ Networking with mental health professionals.
    ✔ Community service and advocacy projects.

  • FMHP encourages members to take on leadership roles within their school chapters and beyond:

    • Chapter Officers: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, etc.

    • Committee Leaders: Oversee advocacy campaigns, event planning, and competitions.

    • State & National Leadership: High-achieving members may qualify for leadership positions at larger levels.

  • FMHP offers a variety of events where members can showcase their knowledge and skills:

    • Mental Health Knowledge Bowl (quiz-based competition)

    • Therapeutic Communication Challenge (role-playing and active listening skills)

    • Mental Health Awareness Campaigns (community advocacy projects)

    • Case Study Analysis (problem-solving and treatment planning for mental health scenarios)

    • Innovation Project (creating mental health tools, apps, or community programs)

  • FMHP members have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, including:

    • Mental Health First Aid Certification

    • Youth Suicide Prevention & Awareness Training

    • Crisis Intervention & Peer Support Basics

    • Trauma-Informed Care Training

    • De-escalation & Therapeutic Communication Training

  • Members play an active role in promoting mental health awareness through:

    • School and community mental health campaigns

    • Volunteer work with mental health organizations

    • Advocacy efforts to promote mental health resources in schools

    • Service-learning projects benefiting youth mental health initiatives