Training that connects
as much as it teaches.
Across courses in group crisis intervention, individual crisis support, and peer resilience, participants shared what the experience meant to them — in their own words.
“You knew how to read the room and the needs of the adult learners, always being mindful of time, breaks, mood, energy.”
— Course participant“You! You were a really engaging facilitator — online training is already difficult, and I have ADHD; you made it enjoyable and I absorbed so much more than I expected.”
“I enjoyed the way you presented information. It seemed to come from a peer rather than someone who was strictly in a position of authority.”
“Your calm presence, your respect for everyone’s perspectives, and your humility.”
“I loved the energy of the classroom. It was easy to be comfortable with everyone throughout uncomfortable topics.”
“How safe you made the environment — I think by opening up about your experiences it really helped!”
“Incorporating humour into a sometimes heavy topic. Your use of humour and not being super drab and boring when delivering the content.”
“Surprisingly, I found the group work (which I usually despise) VERY helpful! The little cards are helpful for practising in the real world.”
“I actually feel like I could facilitate a defuse or debrief right now if called upon to do so.”
“All of it! I loved how you used science to schedule your training — adults can handle 45 minutes before a break.”
“Effective reading of the room and making space for the group to set the pace. Authentic engagement and sharing of professional experience.”
Leaving more confident than they arrived.
Building real-world readiness is the whole point. Across every course format, participants consistently reported meaningful gains in their confidence to respond — individually, and with groups.
145 participants were asked: If you think back to our time together, what is something that makes you smile?
“We engaged our leaders and front line staff in the two day Group Crisis Intervention training with instructor Steve Horner. Overall, the training was excellent and I would highly recommend it for other organizations involved in group crisis interventions. Steve did a great job of explaining the intervention types so that they can be clearly applied as a toolkit in situations that staff and leaders will face. Steve’s style and sense of humour was enjoyable.”
CMHA Waterloo Wellington Dufferin
“Not only did my Justice students come away with some much needed information for their future careers, but they also came away with valuable life messages. In an age where so many of our young people suffer with high levels of stress, anxiety and depression, your message of self-care and asking for help came through loud and clear. Your time and expertise is much appreciated.”
Georgian College
“Dynamic, engaging speaker. Spoke with authenticity and the ‘no BS’ approach was refreshing and allowed me to build trust.”
“Excellent adult education techniques and ability to engage a group of varying careers and experiences.”
“Your manner is easy and approachable. You don’t discount anyone’s ideas or thoughts and encourage dialogue amongst the participants — the conversations helped to solidify the material in my head.”
“Steve Horner assisted very much in allowing that to happen. He possesses a quiet and engaging manner that speaks of confidence and experience. I enjoyed him and the course very much.”
“Steve was a spectacular instructor. He is very knowledgeable and his energy was high — he got the class to participate in many of the lessons. I thought virtual learning wasn’t going to be fun. I was wrong.”
“Great class! The first half was a great refresher for my therapeutic communications. I had the communication skills prior, but now feel more confident using them in crisis situations. I would 100% recommend this course.”
“Steve, you were a wonderful instructor. Your knowledge and first-hand experience was greatly appreciated. You are thoughtful, careful, and you understand engagement.”
— Course participant