Therapy For Emergency Trauma Response emergency workplace interventions critical incident debriefings assessment of post-incident trauma individual and group interventions in the workplace follow-up assessments and therapy best practices in trauma intervention

Emergency Workplace Interventions A death of a colleague, threatened violence, traumatic events-these and other incidents may lead to crises in the workplace. Untreated workplace trauma can lead to decreased productivity, increased health claims, poor morale, even staff resignations. Prompt response by experienced professionals can relieve the stress resulting from trauma. We rapidly respond to emergency needs in the workplace, with opportunities for group or individual counselling and de-briefing on-site or in our offices. Consultation with management and formulation of plans for continued monitoring of the impact of major events are also available.

Best Practices in Trauma Intervention

For most people, the response to trauma, including fear, anxiety, re-experiencing, urges to avoid, and hyperarousal symptoms, will gradually decrease over time.

People should be encouraged to use natural supports and to talk with those they are comfortable with — friends, family, co-workers — at their own pace. They should follow their natural inclination with regard to how much and to whom they talk.

Outcome studies of Psychological Debriefing do not overall support the use of a one-session intervention shortly after the trauma. In fact, some studies found that in the long run, a single-session may hinder natural recovery (see Bisson, Jenkins, Alexander, & Bannister, 1997; Mayou, Ehlers, & Hobbs, 2000).

It is recommended that brief interventions consist of 3-4 visits over 2-6 weeks time.

Individuals who continue to experience severe distress that interferes with functioning after three months are at higher risk for continued problems. These individuals should receive additional treatment.

References:
Foa et al. Guidelines for mental health professionals' response to the recent tragic events in the US.

Critical Incident Debriefings Threatened or actual violence, exposure to personal danger or observation of dangerous or violent events, motor-vehicle accidents, robberies, and other traumatic incidents can all lead to post-traumatic symptoms. Intervention soon after such events helps people to deal with their aftermath and may help prevent more serious problems. On-site meetings in the workplace provide a supportive environment for those involved to deal with their experiences, to understand normal reactions, and to recognize more serious problems. Information is provided on what to expect and how to care for oneself in the immediate and longer term aftermath of traumas. Follow-up consultations may be provided to staff who need it. Consultation is available to management concerning identified problems and how to follow up.