What is it?

This is a short free online course you can complete at your own pace.

You don’t need any prior knowledge — just curiosity about new ways of understanding people and relationships.

What you will explore

In this mini course, you will begin to discover:

• new ways of thinking about why adults and young people may be struggling
• how relationship health can change the way we understand wellbeing
• an introduction to the I Matter Framework
• what your next steps could be if you want to learn more

Why this matters

Many people are seeking support for emotional wellbeing and mental health.

While there are many helpful approaches, this course explores the idea that something important is often missing:

the role of relationships, interaction patterns, and connection in shaping wellbeing.

This mini course introduces that perspective in a simple and accessible way.

Who this is for

This course is suitable for:

• parents and carers
• professionals in education, health, and community roles
• anyone interested in understanding wellbeing in a new way
• people supporting adults or children who are struggling

No previous experience is needed.

What you will receive

When you sign up, you will get:

• immediate access to the mini course
• 30 days of access to complete it at your own pace
• an overview of the wider I Matter Learning Journey
• information about next steps if you want to continue learning

What people say

“This course was very thought-provoking.”

“I had never really thought about relationship health before.”

“I wish everyone could learn these ideas earlier.”

About Dr Cathy Betoin

Dr Cathy Betoin is a practitioner with experience working with adults, children, and families.

Her background includes teaching and clinical psychology, alongside extensive work supporting people in real-world settings.

The I Matter approach developed through practice with families and professionals seeking clearer ways to understand emotional wellbeing and relationship challenges.

Originally focused on children with complex needs, it became clear that these ideas apply to all ages, all relationships, and all contexts of care and support.

What happens next

This mini course is a first step into the I Matter Learning Journey.

If you want to continue, the next stage is:

Choose your introduction route

After this free introduction, you can choose the version that best fits you:

👉 Introduction for Parents (£5 or free via partner organisations)
Focused on understanding family and child wellbeing through a relationship health lens.

👉 Introduction for Professionals & Senior Leaders (£5 or free via partner organisations)
Designed for those working in health, education, or leadership roles.

Available for professionals and non-professionals (free via member organisations with a Link Professional).

After that there will be the Level 1: Get Started

This introduces the I Matter approach in more depth and helps you decide whether to move into Level 1.

A note about access

The mini course is designed as a standalone introduction, but also as a pathway into the wider learning journey.

Some further stages of learning may be prioritised for individuals connected to partner organisations, including areas such as Kendal and Morecambe Bay.