My 2 cents on conceal carry....
Take a class, even four or five from very respected instructors. Decide if you have the mind set for shooting another human being. Also, explore the post shooting circumstances you will most certainly be facing.
When I say take a class, I'm am referring to beyond your conceal carry instruction, not instruction/classes to obtain you conceal carry permit.
In-so-far as instructors are concerned, there is no industry certification process.
There are excellent civilian instructors, but there are many who have no business teaching. I would highly recommend seeking out former military individuals who teach. Being former military, many come to mind and I participate in several classes annually.
To name of few on my short list...
Pat McNamara
Jeff Gonzales Jeff has a lot of focus on mind set. After his class, you will have a better understanding of your mindset
Mike Pannone
Being a good instructor goes beyond shooting and fundamentals. A good instructor must possess the ability to teach and be an excellent conduit of information. The above gentlemen cross and exceed that threshold IMHO.
Carrying a concealed pistol is not about carrying a concealed pistol but rather possessing a tool, the skills and the mind set to kill another human who is threatening your life, the life of a loved one or an innocent bystander.
I've carried for decades, given the chance, my first option is to always RUN!!!! Followed by seeking cover or concealment (cover will stop bullets, concealment will not) to assess the situation. My skills are pretty advanced, but, I am no longer trained or current on the practice of moving to and engaging an active shooter. Those are skills that need to be practiced frequently and with other equally trained shooters. Moving to and engaging an active shooter, room clearing, etc are highly advanced skills. A single mistake could cost you your life.
Think long and hard about what will happen post shoot...your life will be turned upside down by the judicial system.
What do you say to the police on your first encounter post-shoot? Do you even talk to the police about the "shoot" without your lawyer present?
Your lawyer better be in your speed dial and call him/her at your first chance.
You need a post shoot plan in place. Bank on being detained.
Not trying to scare you out of "carrying", just trying to illustrate what you will face post-shoot, even justified. And remember, the "justified" will be likely be determined many months if not years post shoot.