Psychological First Aid from Coursera

Learn to provide psychological first aid to people in an emergency by employing the RAPID model: Reflective listening, Assessment of needs, Prioritization, Intervention, and Disposition.

Utilizing the RAPID model (Reflective listening, Assessment of needs, Prioritization, Intervention, and Disposition), this specialized course provides perspectives on injuries and trauma that are beyond those physical in nature. The RAPID model is readily applicable to public health settings, the workplace, the military, faith-based organizations, mass disaster venues, and even the demands of more commonplace critical events, e.g., dealing with the psychological aftermath of accidents, robberies, suicide, homicide, or community violence. In addition, the RAPID model has been found effective in promoting personal and community resilience.

Participants will increase their abilities to:

- Discuss key concepts related to PFA

- Listen reflectively

- Differentiate benign, non-incapacitating psychological/ behavioral crisis reactions from more severe, potentially incapacitating, crisis reactions

- Prioritize (triage) psychological/ behavioral crisis reactions

- Mitigate acute distress and dysfunction, as appropriate

- Recognize when to facilitate access to further mental health support

- Practice self-care

Developed in collaboration with Johns Hopkins Open Education Lab.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction

In this first week, we have some materials to get you oriented, a pre-course survey, two lectures on history and terms and concepts and a simulated look at PFA in action.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Recommended for crisis counselors, social workers, teachers, law enforcement, health professionals, and faith-based leaders

Taught by Dr. George Everly, Jr., a renowned expert in psychological first aid

Developed in collaboration with Johns Hopkins Open Education Lab, a reputable institution in the field of education

Provides a comprehensive overview of the RAPID model, a well-established approach to psychological first aid

Covers essential skills for providing immediate psychological support in diverse settings, including public health, the workplace, and disaster response

Equips learners with practical strategies for mitigating acute distress and promoting resilience

Reviews summary

Practical introduction to psychological first aid

According to learners, the Psychological First Aid course offers a highly practical and clear introduction to supporting individuals in crisis. Students consistently praised the RAPID model as a very helpful and easy-to-understand framework for providing support. The lectures were described as clear and engaging, and simulated scenarios were generally found to be useful for application. While considered a solid and valuable foundation applicable in many settings (both personal and professional), some reviewers noted that it is an introductory level course and wished for more opportunities for interactive practice or more detailed simulations to build greater confidence beyond the basics.

Skills useful in many real-world settings.

"Highly recommend this course for anyone who might encounter people in crisis, both personally and professionally."

"The content is applicable in many settings."

"This course equips you with essential skills for supporting others. Highly recommended for anyone in a helping role or even just a concerned citizen."

Scenarios help apply learned concepts.

"The simulated scenarios were particularly useful for understanding how to apply the concepts in real-life situations."

"The simulations were realistic and helped solidify my understanding."

"The simulated interactions really make the concepts come alive."

"Simulations are helpful."

Content is well-structured and easy to grasp.

"The course content is well-structured and easy to follow."

"Excellent course! Very clear and concise."

"The RAPID model is presented in an easy-to-understand way."

"Instructors are knowledgeable and explain everything clearly."

"Clear, practical, and highly relevant. Lectures were excellent."

Learn a useful and memorable framework.

"This course provided me with a practical skillset... The RAPID model is a very helpful framework for me to provide support..."

"The RAPID model is a game-changer for understanding how to approach someone in emotional distress."

"Fantastic course! The RAPID model is brilliant in its simplicity and effectiveness."

"The RAPID model is easy to grasp and provides a clear process."

Opportunity for more interactive exercises.

"I wished there were more opportunities for interactive practice."

"The simulations were a bit short, and I would have liked more detailed scenarios or case studies."

"The simulations were not very engaging and didn't feel realistic enough for me to truly practice."

"More practice opportunities would improve the course."

Provides a solid, but basic introduction.

"some parts felt a little basic if you already have some background in mental health. It's a great introduction for beginners, though."

"A good overview of psychological first aid."

"It's a basic introduction, which is fine, but I was hoping for something more in-depth..."

"Good introductory course. Covers the basics of PFA..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Psychological First Aid with these activities:

Watch video tutorials on 'Psychological First Aid for First Responders' provided by the American Red Cross.

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These tutorials provide clear and concise instructions on how to apply the RAPID model in various emergency situations.

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Access the tutorials from the course resources.
Watch the tutorials and take notes on key points.

Read 'Applied Psychological First Aid: Skills for Crisis Responders' by George S. Everly, Jr.

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of the RAPID model and how to apply it in various settings.

View The Johns Hopkins Guide to Psychological First... on Amazon

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Read Chapter 1-3 to gain an understanding of the RAPID model.
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter to practice applying the model.

Complete the 'Psychological First Aid Simulation' online module

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This interactive module provides a realistic simulation of applying the RAPID model in a crisis situation.

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Access the module from the course resources.
Follow the instructions and complete the simulation.
Review your performance and identify areas for improvement.

Five other activities

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Organize a study group with classmates to discuss and practice applying the RAPID model.

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Working with peers will enhance your understanding of the RAPID model and improve your ability to apply it effectively.

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Identify classmates who are interested in forming a study group.
Schedule regular meetings and assign topics for discussion.
Take turns presenting the material to each other.
Practice applying the RAPID model in role-playing exercises.

Create a 'Psychological First Aid Toolkit' with resources and information related to the RAPID model.

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This project will help you synthesize your knowledge of the RAPID model and create a valuable resource for others.

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Gather resources such as articles, websites, and videos on the RAPID model.
Organize the resources into a logical and user-friendly format.
Create a brief summary of the RAPID model and how to apply it.

Attend a local workshop on Psychological First Aid for Mental Health Professionals.

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This workshop will provide hands-on training and allow you to practice applying the RAPID model in real-life scenarios.

Browse courses on Psychological First Aid

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Research and identify local workshops.
Register and attend the workshop.
Actively participate in the exercises and discussions.

Create a blog post or article summarizing the key concepts of the RAPID model and its applications.

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Writing a blog post or article will help you solidify your understanding of the RAPID model and share your knowledge with others.

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Research the RAPID model and gather relevant information.
Outline the key concepts and applications of the RAPID model.
Write a clear and concise blog post or article.
Publish your blog post or article on a platform or website.

Volunteer as a mentor to individuals who are new to Psychological First Aid.

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Mentoring others will deepen your understanding of the RAPID model and allow you to make a meaningful contribution to your community.

Browse courses on Psychological First Aid

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Identify organizations or individuals who are seeking mentors.
Offer your services and explain your experience with the RAPID model.
Provide guidance and support to your mentees as they learn and apply the RAPID model.

Career center

Learners who complete Psychological First Aid will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Crisis Counselor

Crisis Counselors are there to provide support and guidance to people in times of crisis. They may work with people who are experiencing a variety of challenges, including mental health issues, substance abuse, or relationship problems. This course would be particularly helpful for Crisis Counselors because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Crisis Counselors to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Crisis Counselor

Disaster Relief Worker

Disaster Relief Workers provide assistance to people who have been affected by natural disasters or other emergencies. They may work with people who are experiencing a variety of challenges, including physical injuries, mental health issues, or financial problems. This course would be particularly helpful for Disaster Relief Workers because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Disaster Relief Workers to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) provide emergency medical care to people who are sick or injured. They may work in a variety of settings, including ambulances, fire stations, and hospitals. This course would be particularly helpful for EMTs because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help EMTs to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Firefighter

Firefighters protect people and property from fires. They may also respond to other emergencies, such as medical emergencies or natural disasters. This course would be particularly helpful for Firefighters because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Firefighters to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Victim Advocate

Victim Advocates provide support and assistance to victims of crime. They may work in a variety of settings, including law enforcement agencies, victim service organizations, and hospitals. This course would be particularly helpful for Victim Advocates because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Victim Advocates to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Youth Counselor

Youth Counselors provide guidance and support to youth who are experiencing a variety of challenges. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, youth centers, and group homes. This course would be particularly helpful for Youth Counselors because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Youth Counselors to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Law Enforcement Officer

Law Enforcement Officers enforce the law and protect people and property. They may work in a variety of settings, including patrol cars, police stations, and courthouses. This course would be particularly helpful for Law Enforcement Officers because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Law Enforcement Officers to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Mental Health Counselor

Mental Health Counselors provide mental health services to people who are experiencing a variety of challenges, including mental health issues, substance abuse, or relationship problems. This course would be particularly helpful for Mental Health Counselors because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Mental Health Counselors to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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School Counselor

School Counselors provide mental health services to students in schools. They may work with students who are experiencing a variety of challenges, including mental health issues, academic problems, or relationship problems. This course would be particularly helpful for School Counselors because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help School Counselors to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Social Worker

Social Workers provide a variety of services to people who are experiencing challenges, including mental health issues, poverty, or relationship problems. This course would be particularly helpful for Social Workers because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Social Workers to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselors provide counseling and support to people who are struggling with substance abuse. They may work in a variety of settings, including treatment centers, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. This course would be particularly helpful for Substance Abuse Counselors because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Substance Abuse Counselors to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Nurse

Nurses provide care to people who are sick or injured. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. This course would be particularly helpful for Nurses because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Nurses to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Teacher

Teachers provide instruction to students in a variety of subjects. They may work in a variety of settings, including public schools, private schools, and homeschools. This course may be helpful for Teachers because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Teachers to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Psychologist

Psychologists provide mental health services to people who are experiencing a variety of challenges, including mental health issues, substance abuse, or relationship problems. This course may be helpful for Psychologists because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Psychologists to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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Physician

Physicians provide medical care to people who are sick or injured. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. This course may be helpful for Physicians because it would provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective psychological first aid. The course would also help Physicians to understand the different types of crisis reactions and how to prioritize their interventions.

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