Make a Difference

Be a Mental Health / Substance Abuse Navigator

The Futurology Wellness Foundation (FWF) Navigation Line is a non-clinical service dedicated to educating, informing, and offering support to individuals seeking information about mental health and addiction services and resources across all our offices in Nigeria. Our goal is to make life-changing and life-saving connections between people who need mental health/substance abuse resources and the professionals who provide services.

Our Mental Health/Substance Abuse Navigators are volunteers who are trained in case management and mental health education. FWF Navigators respond to incoming calls and offer mental health and substance abuse information, types of services available, and encouragement. No professional mental health or substance abuse experience is required.

Responsibilities

Answer calls regarding mental health and substance abuse concerns and treatment options.
Collect pertinent information to assess needs and develop an action plan with the caller.
Provide information about mental health/substance abuse conditions and treatment strategies.
Intervene with individuals who are at imminent risk of hurting themselves or others.
Document caller information, mental health concerns, or type of substance abuse and services provided.
Follow up with callers to assess progress.
Consult with staff regarding callers' needs to ensure appropriate information and resources are being offered.

Goal for Each Call

With the help of trained FWF Navigators, callers benefit from increased knowledge about how to navigate the mental health and substance abuse system, feel empowered to seek treatment, and experience stronger feelings of hope and support.

Requirements

Who Can Become a Navigator

Personal Experience (at least one of the following)

Having had a mental health or substance abuse condition.
Having had a relationship with someone who had a mental health or substance abuse condition.
Having been a student or professional in the mental health/substance abuse field.

General Requirements

At least 18 years of age.

Currently living in the area you're volunteering in.

Computer proficient.

Able to master the case management software and telephone system.

Comfortable talking on the phone.

Able to discuss difficult, complex topics.

Able to comply with confidentiality and legal requirements.

Able to work in a team environment.

A quick learner and able to adapt to new challenges.

An active listener.

Able to communicate with empathy.

Willing to communicate empathically with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation, and age groups, including adults, youth, family members, professionals, and community agencies.

Training & Support

40 Hours of Total Training

All 40 hours must be completed to successfully finish the training requirement.

28 hrs

Classroom Training

Foundational instruction on ethics, confidentiality, mental health and substance abuse education, and active listening.

6 hrs

Call Observation

Shadowing experienced Navigators on live calls to learn case management in practice.

6 hrs

Supervised Navigation Line Hours

Taking calls on the Navigation Line with direct supervision before working independently.

Time Commitment

After training, Navigators are asked to serve a minimum of 6 hours per month (Two 6-hour shifts, or one 8-hour shift, per month, for at least six months.) for at least 6 months.

Shifts are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some locations may operate a 24/7 shift schedule.

Futurology Wellness Foundation staff is dedicated to creating a fulfilling and effective Navigator experience for you. Thank you for your commitment to our community!