About The Workshop

Unfortunately, this workshop is fully booked. You can join the waiting list or browse our full list of workshops.
ASIST, from LivingWorks, is a 2-day intensive, interactive and practice-dominated course designed to help individuals recognize the risk of suicide, and learn how to intervene to prevent the risk of suicidal thoughts from becoming suicidal behaviours.
Suitable for all persons in positions of trust: health professionals, social service workers, teachers, counsellors, youth workers, police and correctional staff, and community volunteers. Prepared caregivers can help prevent suicide.
700 Lawrence Ave W, Suite #480
Toronto, ON M6A 3B4
LEARNING OUTCOMES
- Understand the ways that personal and societal attitudes affect views on suicide and interventions
- Provide guidance and suicide first aid to a person at risk in ways that meet their individual safety needs
- Identify the key elements of an effective suicide safety plan and the actions required to implement it
- Appreciate the value of improving and integrating suicide prevention resources in the community at large
- Recognize other important aspects of suicide prevention including life-promotion and self-care
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are workshops in-person, a hybrid or both?
ASIST training is only offered in person. Currently we offer public workshops at our both of our offices – the Toronto location and Scarborough location.
What is the cancellation policy for workshops?
CMHA Toronto reserves the right to cancel or postpone workshops due to the following: under enrollment, instructor illness, inclement weather, and or due to public health recommendations related to a public health concern that limits our ability to safely deliver our workshops and / or programs
If a workshop is cancelled, an alternative date will be discussed or clients will receive a full refund.
Refunds will only be provided in the event a workshop had been cancelled by CMHA Toronto.
If plans change after you have registered, the following may be done:
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- The workshop can be transferred to another date only upon provision of a notification email to workshops@cmhato.org, 10+ business days prior to the start of training registered by your company. A $20 administration fee will be applied and is payable at the time of the transfer request.
- We do not consider requests to transfer less than ten business days prior to a workshop date
- If you fail to attend your scheduled workshops without notifying us, your fee will be forfeited
What is ASIST training, and who is it for?
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a two-day, interactive workshop that equips participants with practical skills to identify, assess, and support individuals at risk of suicide. The training is designed for anyone—including professionals (healthcare workers, educators, first responders), community leaders, and everyday people—who want to be prepared to help someone in crisis. No prior experience is necessary.
What skills will I learn in ASIST training?
ASIST teaches a structured, evidence-based intervention model that includes:
- Recognizing signs of suicide risk
- Engaging in open, supportive conversations about suicide
- Assessing the level of risk
- Developing a personalized safety plan with the person in crisis
- Connecting them to professional support and community resources
These skills empower participants to act confidently in real-life situations and make a life-saving difference.
Where can I find an ASIST workshop near me?
You can find an upcoming ASIST workshop near you by checking our Workshops & Training page or visiting the LivingWorks website. We offer monthly in-person ASIST training sessions at our Toronto and Scarborough offices. We also see participants come from all around the Greater Toronto Area, including areas like Mississauga, Hamilton, Oakville, York Region, and beyond.
Do I need any prior experience to attend ASIST training?
No prior experience or background in mental health is required to take ASIST training. The workshop is designed for anyone—whether you are a professional, a student, a community member, or someone who wants to be prepared to support others. The program provides step-by-step guidance and a safe learning environment to build confidence in applying intervention skills.
Can I register for ASIST training as an individual, or do I need to be part of an organization?
ASIST training is open to both individuals and organizations. You can register as an individual through our current offerings or if you’re part of a workplace, school, or community group interested in hosting ASIST training, connect with us at workshops@cmhato.org to arrange a session.
Do I receive a certificate after completing ASIST training?
Yes! Upon completing the two-day ASIST workshop, you will receive an official certificate of completion. This certificate demonstrates your training in suicide intervention skills and can be used for professional and personal development.
How long is the ASIST certificate valid for, and do I need to renew it?
The ASIST certificate does not have an official expiry date. However, CMHA Toronto recommends taking a refresher every five years to keep your skills current and reinforce your confidence in suicide intervention. Best practices evolve, and regular training ensures you stay prepared to support someone in crisis.
Can ASIST training be used for professional development or continuing education credits (CEUs)?
Yes, many professionals use ASIST training to meet their continuing education (CEU) or professional development requirements. The eligibility for CEUs depends on your field and accrediting body (e.g., social work, nursing, counseling, first responders). Check with your organization or licensing board to see if ASIST qualifies for credits.
Is ASIST training recognized by workplaces, schools, and healthcare organizations?
Yes! ASIST is internationally recognized and widely used in workplaces, schools, healthcare settings, military, and community organizations. Many employers encourage or require ASIST training for roles involving mental health, crisis response, social work, and public safety.
How do I bring ASIST training to my organization or workplace?
If you want to offer ASIST training at your workplace, school, or organization, we can arrange a custom workshop for your team. Contact us at workshops@cmhato.org to discuss scheduling and pricing
Upcoming Workshops
Contact Us
West Office
700 Lawrence Ave W,
Suite #480 Toronto,
ON M6A 3B4
East Office
1200 Markham Rd,
Suite #500 Scarborough,
ON M1H 3C3
