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 effective self-involving behavior; (5) understanding others' communication; and (6) establishing effective helping relationships. The process of skill training involved defining and rationalizing the skill in behavioral terms, using models to demonstrate effective and ineffective examples, and giving opportunities for extensive supervised practice of the skill. The author describes briefly the prerequisites for entrance into the program and details the role of the program leader. After one year of formal use, the author see significant merit for the program, although he does not offer statistical evaluation of its impact. (Author/PC)