Goal

Hearing Voices was designed to create empathy for the the experiences and daily challenges which may be faced by people who have auditory hallucinations.

Overview 

Hearing Voices is a 1.5 hour educational and awareness training to provide insight and a better understanding of those who experience auditory hallucinations. Participation will help the audience challenge misunderstandings and stereotypes.

Hearing Voices is required as part of the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) and Crisis Intervention Partner (CIP) trainings. This training is also offered as a standalone presentation for any local business or community organization hoping to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and hallucinations.

This 1.5 interactive presentation includes an overview of mental illness, explanation of hallucinations, and description of schizophrenia and other mental illnesses which may cause auditory hallucinations.

After a brief presentation by trained leaders, participants will take part in a simulation where they will hear Pat Deegan’s Hearing Distressing Voices audio through headphones. While listening to this audio through headphones, participants attempt to complete various activities both individually and as a group.

NAMI Wisconsin Hearing Voices Leaders 

NAMI Wisconsin can provide training to become a Hearing Voices leader. Leaders may be part of a CIT coordinating team, NAMI affiliate, or members of the community who want to bring this training to their organization.  

If you are interested in volunteering to offer this program to our community, please complete a Volunteer Application.

Copywrites & Caveats

This program was designed by NAMI Wisconsin. Hearing Voices uses Pat Deegan’s Hearing Distressing Voices recording; all licensing for this recording is with Pat Deegan PhD & Associates, LLC.   

Hearing Voices is not recommended for people who experience auditory hallucinations. This presentation will not be offered to anyone under 18.