Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR) Training

Willamette University has multiple staff who provide the QPR Institute’s Gatekeeper Training to students, staff, and faculty at no cost. QPR is an emergency mental health intervention designed to identify and respond to the warning signs of suicide, and maintain individuals’ safety by connecting them to supportive resources and care. If you want to join our effort to increase access to this life-saving training, sign up on the Willamette QPR Sign-Up Form.

• Why should someone get trained as a QPR Gatekeeper?

  Getting trained is one way that people can show care for their community and community members. As more people are trained in QPR, more lives can be saved.

• What happens during a QPR Gatekeeper Training?
  Participants receive a framework for helping someone in a suicide crisis. There will be statistics and general information shared, but not stories or examples, nor will participants be asked to share personal accounts. The training includes an opportunity to practice with a scenario.
• Can I attend a QPR Gatekeeper Training if I have been touched by suicide?
  Many people are inspired to receive QPR training after being touched by suicide in their life, and their participation is welcome. The QPR Institute requires a minimum of 6 months since a participant was touched by suicide (e.g., experienced suicidal ideation or behavior, a loved one died from suicide, etc.). For your care and well-being, we invite you to join a QPR training after the 6-month mark.
• How long does QPR Gatekeeper Training take?
  The training lasts between 1.5 hours and 2 hours.
• How do individuals sign up for a QPR Gatekeeper Training?
  Students, staff, and faculty can sign up by completing our Willamette QPR Sign-Up Form.
• How can groups (e.g., clubs, departments, etc.) sign up for a QPR Gatekeeper Training?
  An interested group should email qpr-trainers-group@willamette.edu with details including the number of possible attendees and 2-3 suggested training dates and times. Please email at least two weeks in advance.
• When does the QPR Gatekeeper Training certification expire?
  The certification expires 2 years after the training date.
• How many people have been trained at Willamette?

  The data below show how many faculty, staff, and students completed QPR Gatekeeper Training as of the start of each semester.

  • Spring 2024: 108
  • Fall 2023: 65