About Us:
Our Trainer & Consultant
Robert Schoemaker
Robert Schoemaker is a highly experienced clinician and psychotherapist, recognized for his expertise in crisis intervention training through the Understanding and Managing Aggressive Behaviour (U.M.A.B.) program. With over 20 years as a certified U.M.A.B. trainer, Rob has personally instructed thousands of staff in UMAB crisis intervention training, equipping them with essential skills to manage challenging situations safely and effectively. Drawing on his clinical background, Robert has integrated key trauma-informed components into his training, ensuring that participants gain a deeper understanding of client needs and evidence-based strategies for supporting individuals who have experienced trauma. In addition to his training roles, Robert serves as a CARF program surveyor, offering consultation on policies and written procedures related to non-violent practices (and other relevant accreditation requirements) for child and youth service and behavioural health service programs, supporting agencies in creating safe, supportive environments for both clients and staff.
Passionate Expertise
Compassionate Approach
Diverse Background
Your Success, My Priority
Why Do We Use the U.M.A.B. Program by Hy'N'Hancment Consulting?
U.M.A.B. - Understanding & Managing Aggressive Behaviour A Crisis Intervention Management System
This program is considered to be essential to the human service industry when dealing with aggressive and/or violent persons in need. It introduces the participants to understanding the functionalities of a person's behaviour and how to identify vital signs of an impending crisis and manage it safely and effectively. If the situation becomes physical, participants are taught the concepts of self-protection, disengagement skills, and the principles of using physical intervention on a continuum in various direct care service settings. This program is structured to incorporate both theoretical and experiential learning components. An understanding is provided of the legislative policies and procedures regarding the use of behaviour management intervention strategies required for frontline workers to be effective and successful in managing the behaviour of persons in need.
Program provided by Hy'N'Hancement Consulting Inc.
Testimonials
Robert was very well matched to our agency in terms of his background and expertise. His extensive experience in training, practice, program development, and accreditation of child and youth services strongly aligned with the Scope and complexity of our programs. His deep understanding of program delivery, outcomes, and evaluation systems contributed to meaningful and relevant discussions. His kind, warm, and collaborative approach further supported a constructive and valuable experience.
- Child & Youth Services Organization, AB. Canada
Rob demonstrated exceptional professionalism, knowledge, and communication throughout the entire review process. They approached our team with respect, patience, and a genuine interest in understanding our programs. Their feedback was thoughtful, balanced, and delivered in a way that felt supportive rather than critical. We appreciated their ability to create a comfortable environment where staff felt confident sharing information and asking questions. Overall, Rob contributed greatly to making this a positive and productive experience for our organization.
- Child & Youth Services Organization, CA. USA
FAQS
Get In Touch
FAQS
Is U.M.A.B. only a physical restraint training?
U.M.A.B. (Understanding and Managing Aggressive Behaviour) is not solely a restraint training program. While it does teach safe and appropriate physical intervention techniques, its primary focus is on prevention, de-escalation, and the safe management
of aggressive behaviour. Physical intervention skills, including restraint or containment, are considered a last resort and is only taught within the context of ensuring safety for all involved.
What is in U.M.A.B. Training?
U.M.A.B. Training consists of a combination of theoretical and practical components. Topics typically include understanding the causes of aggressive behaviour, prevention strategies, verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques, risk assessment, understanding your client, crisis intervention skills, and safe physical intervention methods. The training emphasizes the importance of empathy, communication, and professionalism when working with individuals exhibiting challenging behaviours.
How long has U.M.A.B. been around?
U.M.A.B. has been in use for several decades. It was developed in Canada by Hy'N'Hancment Consulting Inc. by Joseph Hyland in 1999 and has evolved over the years based on best practices and new research in behavioural management, mental health, and safety protocols. The program has a longstanding reputation for providing effective, evidence-informed training in a variety of settings.
What population is U.M.A.B. designed to service?
U.M.A.B. is designed to service professionals who work with individuals who may exhibit aggressive or challenging behaviours. This includes staff in schools, live-in programs, group homes, hospitals, mental health facilities, and other community support environments. The training is adaptable to children, youth, and adults, ensuring that it meets the needs of diverse populations and settings.
How long does a U.M.A.B. Certificate last for?
A U.M.A.B. Certificate is valid one year from the completion of the course.
How many days is the UMAB Training?
"Orientation Program" to UMAB is the initial course a person must take to obtain a UMAB certificate. The courses can be either two (no physical containments) or three (with physical containment) days in length.
“Continuing Education Program” is the recertification course that must be completed before the date of expiry on the person's current UMAB Certificate. The course would be either one day (if you completed the 2-day UMAB Orientation) or two days (if you completed the 3-day UMAB Orientation days in length.
How does an Agency arrange a U.M.A.B. Training?
Agencies can connect with us via email or phone.
How many days is the U.M.A.B. Training?
"Orientation Program" to U.M.A.B. is the initial course a person must take to obtain a U.M.A.B. certificate the courses can be either two (no physical containments) or three (with physical containment) days in length.
“Continuing Education Program” is the recertification course that must be completed before the date of expiry on the person's current U.M.A.B. Certificate. The course would be either one day (if you completed the 2-day U.M.A.B. Orientation) or two days (if you completed the 3-day U.M.A.B. Orientation days in length.
Is U.M.A.B. training available online?
Yes, many providers now offer U.M.A.B. training online—only for the theoretical component. The physical components must be taught in-person.
Can I get fully certified in UMAB through an online course?
No, Online courses only cover theory - we offer a certificate for just the theory component. The certificate will identify the training you received. Majority of oganizations complete the verbal training live-online and complete the practical based on legislation and orgnaizational Policy and Proceedures which may inclued self-protection, disengagement skills with physical containments (physical restraints) in-person.
