Psychological First Aid Course Reviews

The course focuses on providing participants with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to offer psychological support and aid to individuals who have experienced traumatic events or are in crisis situations. It aims to equip learners with the ability to provide immediate assistance in a compassionate and effective manner.

The course covers a range of topics, including understanding the psychological and emotional reactions that individuals may experience during and after a crisis, as well as strategies for providing practical support, active listening, and creating a safe environment for those affected. Participants will learn how to assess the needs of individuals, offer appropriate guidance, and refer them to further professional help if necessary.

Throughout the course, participants will engage in interactive lessons, case studies, and practical exercises to develop their skills in psychological first aid. The goal is to empower learners to respond effectively to various types of crises and to contribute positively to the well-being and recovery of individuals in distress.

By completing the course, participants will gain a better understanding of psychological first aid principles, enhance their ability to provide immediate support, and contribute to building more resilient and supportive communities in times of crisis.

Course Content:

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.

The course Psychological First Aid by George Everly on Coursera is divided into 5 modules. Here is a detailed breakdown of the modules:

Module 1: 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.

• Module 1 Introduction •2 minutes•Preview module
• Lecture 1: Terms and Concepts•12 minutes
• Lecture 2: Historical Context•10 minutes
• Full simulation video •15 minutes

• Welcome to Psychological First Aid•10 minutes
• Course enrollment options•2 minutes
• Syllabus•10 minutes
• Pre-Course Survey•10 minutes
• The Johns Hopkins Guide to Psychological First Aid•10 minutes

Module 2: Reflective Listening/Rapport

This week, we'll be looking more closely at the R component of our RAPID model.

• Module 2 Introduction •1 minute•Preview module
• Lecture 3: Reflective Listening & Rapport•15 minutes
• Lecture 4: How Reflective Listening Works•11 minutes
• Reflective Listening & Rapport Vignette A •1 minute
• Reflective Listening & Rapport Vignette B •2 minutes

• Modules 1 & 2 Quiz•30 minutes

Module 3: Assessment and Prioritization

This week, we'll be looking more closely at the A and P components of our RAPID model. A stands for Assessment, and P stands for Prioritization.

• Module 3 Introduction •1 minute•Preview module
• Lecture 5: Assessment of Needs•19 minutes
• Assessment Vignette A •1 minute
• Assessment Vignette B•5 minutes
• Module 4 Introduction •2 minutes
• Lecture 6: Prioritization•12 minutes
• Beyond the Ashes •23 minutes
• Prioritization Vignette A •1 minute
• Prioritization Vignette B •0 minutes

• Modules 3 & 4 Quiz•30 minutes

Module 4: Intervention and Disposition

This week, we'll be looking more closely at the I and D components of our RAPID model in Lectures 7 and 8, respectively. I stands for Intervention, and D stands for Disposition.

• Module 5 Introduction •1 minute•Preview module
• Lecture 7: Intervention•12 minutes
• Intervention Vignette A•1 minute
• Intervention Vignette B •1 minute
• Module 6 Introduction •1 minute
• Lecture 8: Disposition•9 minutes
• Disposition Vignette A •0 minutes
• Disposition Vignette B •0 minutes
• Follow-Up Vignette •4 minutes

• Modules 5 & 6 Quiz•30 minutes

Module 5: Self-Care and Wrap-Up

Now that we've gone through the entire RAPID model, we'll turn our intention to you, the provider.

• Module 7 Introduction •1 minute•Preview module
• Lecture 9: Self-Care•12 minutes
• Lecture 10: Summary•6 minutes
• Closing Remarks•2 minutes

• Post-Course Survey•10 minutes

• Module 7 Quiz•30 minutes

Reviews:

As a former participant of the Psychological First Aid course by George Everly on Coursera, I found the experience to be incredibly valuable and enriching. The course provided a comprehensive and insightful exploration into the principles and practices of offering psychological support to individuals in crisis. Here is my assessment of the course:

1. Content Relevance and Depth: The course content was well-organized and covered a wide range of topics related to psychological first aid. From understanding the psychological impact of trauma to practical strategies for offering support, the course delved into the subject matter with depth and clarity.

2. Expertise of George Everly: Dr. George Everly's expertise in the field was evident throughout the course. His lectures were engaging, well-researched, and conveyed a genuine passion for the subject. His real-world examples and case studies added a practical dimension to the theoretical concepts.

3. Interactive Learning Approach: The course utilized a mix of video lectures, readings, quizzes, and peer discussions, creating an engaging and interactive learning experience. The inclusion of case studies and practical exercises allowed me to apply the concepts and enhance my understanding.

4. Real-World Applicability: One of the highlights of the course was its emphasis on practical application. The skills I gained were not only theoretical but also immediately applicable in various contexts. I felt more confident in my ability to provide emotional support to individuals in distress.

5. Cultural Sensitivity: The course's focus on cultural competence and sensitivity was commendable. It emphasized the importance of tailoring support to individual backgrounds and needs, which is crucial in a diverse and interconnected world.

6. Community Engagement: Participating in discussions with peers from different parts of the world was enlightening. The course fostered a sense of community where we could share insights, experiences, and learn from one another's perspectives.

7. Flexibility and Accessibility: The self-paced nature of the course allowed me to balance learning with other commitments. The Coursera platform was user-friendly, making it easy to navigate and access course materials.

8. Certificate of Completion: Obtaining a certificate at the end of the course was a gratifying achievement. It served as a tangible acknowledgment of the knowledge and skills I had gained.

In conclusion, the Psychological First Aid course by George Everly on Coursera exceeded my expectations in terms of content quality, instructional approach, and practical relevance. It equipped me with a valuable skill set that extends beyond theory and has the potential to make a positive impact in real-life situations. I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in learning how to provide effective psychological support during times of crisis.

What you'll learn:

After completing the Psychological First Aid course authored by George Everly on Coursera, participants will acquire several skills:

1. Basic Understanding of Psychological First Aid: Learners will have a solid grasp of the principles and concepts of psychological first aid. They will be knowledgeable about the importance of providing immediate emotional and psychological support to individuals in crisis situations.

2. Assessment Skills: Participants will develop the ability to assess the psychological and emotional needs of individuals who have experienced traumatic events or are in distress. They will learn how to identify signs of distress and determine appropriate levels of support.

3. Effective Communication: The course will enhance participants' communication skills, particularly active listening and empathetic responses. Learners will be able to establish a safe and supportive environment for those in crisis, allowing them to express their feelings and thoughts.

4. Crisis Response Strategies: Participants will be equipped with practical strategies to respond effectively to various crisis scenarios. They will learn how to offer immediate aid, create a sense of safety, and guide individuals through their initial emotional reactions.

5. Referral and Resources: Learners will understand when and how to refer individuals to professional help and additional resources. They will be aware of the boundaries of psychological first aid and know when more specialized assistance is required.

6. Cultural Sensitivity: The course emphasizes cultural competence and sensitivity when providing psychological first aid. Participants will learn to respect and adapt their approaches based on individuals' cultural backgrounds and preferences.

7. Building Resilience: Participants will gain insights into how psychological first aid contributes to building resilience in individuals and communities. They will learn how their support can contribute to long-term recovery and well-being.

8. Confidence in Crisis Situations: By practicing the skills taught in the course through case studies and interactive exercises, learners will build confidence in their ability to assist individuals during times of crisis.

9. Contributing to Well-being: Graduates of the course will have the potential to make a positive impact on the well-being of those around them. They can become a source of support in their communities and workplaces during challenging times.

In summary, completing the Psychological First Aid course will equip participants with the essential skills and knowledge to provide immediate psychological support and aid to individuals in crisis, fostering resilience and contributing to overall well-being.

Author:

George S. Everly Jr. is a prominent figure in the field of psychology, particularly in the areas of stress, resilience, and crisis intervention. He is widely recognized for his significant contributions to understanding and addressing the psychological impact of traumatic events, as well as his work in training professionals and individuals in psychological first aid and disaster response.

Dr. George Everly holds a distinguished academic background. He has earned a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master's degree in Public Health. With his extensive education and experience, he has become a sought-after expert and author in the field. His research and writings have had a profound influence on the development of psychological strategies for coping with stress, trauma, and crisis situations.

One of Dr. Everly's notable accomplishments is his pioneering work in the field of psychological resilience. He has conducted extensive research on how individuals and communities can develop and strengthen their capacity to bounce back from adversity. His insights into the factors that contribute to resilience have provided valuable guidance for professionals, organizations, and individuals seeking to enhance their ability to cope with life's challenges.

Additionally, George Everly's contributions extend to the realm of disaster response and psychological first aid. He has played a crucial role in formulating and disseminating guidelines and training programs for assisting individuals in the immediate aftermath of traumatic events. His expertise has been instrumental in shaping the way professionals and laypeople alike provide psychological support and care during crises.

Dr. Everly's work has not only contributed to the academic understanding of psychological well-being and crisis intervention but has also had practical implications for real-world applications. His research has informed the development of effective interventions, training programs, and resources that have been utilized by various organizations, governments, and communities worldwide.

In summary, George S. Everly Jr. is a respected authority in the field of psychology, particularly in the areas of stress, resilience, and crisis intervention. His academic background, research contributions, and practical applications have established him as a leading figure who has made significant strides in promoting mental well-being and supporting individuals and communities in times of adversity.

Requirements:

The Psychological First Aid course by George Everly typically encompasses the following requirements:

1. Basic English Proficiency: As the course content is delivered in English, participants should have a reasonable understanding of the language to engage effectively with the materials, lectures, and assignments.

2. Internet Access: Since the course is offered online, participants need a stable internet connection to access the course materials, lectures, discussions, and any interactive elements.

3. Computer or Device: Learners should have access to a computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone to navigate the course platform, watch videos, participate in discussions, and complete assignments.

4. Commitment to Learning: Successful completion of the course requires a commitment of time and effort. Participants should be willing to dedicate the necessary hours to engage with the course materials and actively participate in discussions and assignments.

5. Open-mindedness and Empathy: Given the nature of the content, participants should approach the course with an open mind, empathy, and a willingness to learn about psychological first aid principles and practices for assisting individuals in crisis.

6. No Prerequisite Knowledge: The course is designed for individuals without prior formal training in psychology or counseling. Therefore, no specific prior knowledge or experience is required to enroll.

7. Ability to Self-Pace: Many online courses, including this one, allow learners to progress at their own pace. Participants should be comfortable with self-directed learning and managing their own study schedule.

8. Access to Coursera Platform: Enrollees need to create an account on the Coursera platform (if they don't already have one) and enroll in the specific course to access its content.

9. Interest in Psychological Support: While not a strict requirement, having an interest in understanding and providing psychological support to individuals experiencing distress or crisis situations will enhance the learner's engagement and motivation throughout the course.

10. Desire to Make a Difference: The course may be particularly beneficial for individuals who have a desire to contribute positively to their communities, workplaces, or personal networks by offering psychological first aid and support during challenging times.