This paper describes the current status of a helping skills program designed to train mental health paraprofessionals in relationship-building skills. Six skills were identified as the basis of the training program: (1) understanding the need to be a helper; (2) using effective nonverbal behavior; (3) using effective verbal behavior; (4) using…

This paper attempts to discuss several unresolved issues currently of concern in the utilization and training of paraprofessionals. It examines, briefly, three well-known training programs, and elaborates on a fourth, focusing on the objectives and processes of the training. While there is considerable overlap among the programs, especially in…

Paraprofessionals don't arrive on the job equipped with all the knowledge and skills needed for effective service. Danish and Brock discuss four systematic methods that have proven successful in the training of paraprofessionals, and give readers some guidelines for choosing methods that are most appropriate for their own programs. (Author)

Chaired by Bernard G. Guerney, Jr., this program on the development and evaluation of helping skills training included the following presentations: (1) "The Development of a Helping Skills Program" (Steven Danish); (2) "Paraprofessionals Assess the Training Program" (Barbara Wakshul); (3) "Research Conducted on the Training of Basic Helping…