Mandt Program Continues Progress

VSI's progress with Mandt System training continues with the upcoming certification as an instructor of a second key staff member.
Carter Batts, VSI's Supported Employment program manager, will attend training on Nov. 16 to become a certified trainer. He will join VSI's long-time Mandt instructor, Walt Janzen, manager of Work and Personal Services.

Mandt is considered a leader in techniques for dealing with people in crisis through humane and professional communication in times of stress. The Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) earlier this year adopted the Mandt System for its facilities.
VSI is active in other areas with Mandt, too. A certification class for staff members not experienced in the system was held Oct. 2-3. Re-certification was held Sept. 29 for staff members who have been previously certified. Janzen and Batts will begin another round of classes in December.

Janzen was first trained in the program in 1984 and became certified as a trainer in 1988. He was instrumental in VSI's adoption of the Mandt System in 1994 and serves as a member of a Department of Mental Health planning committee.