From Compassion to Capacity: The PM+ Model in Action
I recently had the opportunity to participate in ArcaMind’s Problem Management Plus (PM+) Helper Training and I don’t think I’ll ever see mental health support the same way again.
When I first heard about PM+, I’ll admit I was curious but a little skeptical. I don’t have a background in psychology or counseling. I’ve always cared deeply about the people around me, but the idea of “helping” someone through stress or adversity felt like something reserved for licensed professionals. What could I, as a layperson, possibly offer?
Turns out, a lot.
PM+ is a mental health intervention developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). It’s designed specifically for people like me, those without formal clinical training so that we can learn to provide effective, practical support to people facing stress and hardship in their lives. ArcaMind’s training brought this to life in a way that was both accessible and incredibly empowering.
The first thing that stood out to me was the caliber of the trainers. They weren’t just skilled facilitators, they embodied empathy, clarity, and grounded confidence. They held space for our questions, our hesitations, and even our own emotions that surfaced during the training. Their ability to model the very skills they were teaching, listening deeply, responding without judgment, guiding without rushing created a safe and powerful learning environment.
The training itself was practical, engaging, and deeply human. We learned about the core strategies of PM+: managing stress and problems, getting social support, and engaging in activities that bring a sense of meaning and purpose. These aren’t abstract concepts. They’re life tools, concrete, evidence-based approaches to support someone who’s struggling, overwhelmed, or simply needing someone to walk alongside them for a while.
What I appreciated most was that the training wasn’t about “fixing” people. It was about accompanying them. Listening. Noticing their strengths. Helping them find a next step. That alone, done well, consistently, and with care can change someone’s life trajectory.
And yes, I was nervous about the idea of applying this in real life. But PM+ isn’t just a one-and-done training. It’s supported by supervision. There’s a thoughtful structure in place that ensures Helpers aren’t left alone in the work—they’re guided, supported, and part of a connected community. That gave me confidence. It still does.
Since launching PM+ training, ArcaMind has been helping communities across the country look at conversations, and each other differently. They’re walking alongside people facing real challenges, not with all the answers, but with the skills to hold space, offer calm guidance, and help others find their own way forward. It’s not just training, it’s a quiet, powerful shift in how we show up for one another. This work matters. And I’m so grateful ArcaMind is bringing it to life in communities like mine.
If you’ve ever felt the pull to do something about the mental health crisis but weren’t sure where to begin, this might be your starting point. We have a national cohort training starting on October 10 – click here for more information. You don’t need to be a therapist. You just need to care, to show up, and to be willing to learn.
