221.628.79
Psychological First Aid: Principles and Practice

Location
Internet
Term
Summer Institute
Department
International Health
Credit(s)
2
Academic Year
2025 - 2026
Instruction Method
Synchronous Online
Auditors Allowed
Yes, with instructor consent
Available to Undergraduate
Yes
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
George Everly
Contact Name
George Everly
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Description
Psychological First Aid should be viewed as an essential aspect of secondary prevention by fostering resilience in others. Resilience may be an essential skill for those working in high-stress environments. Providing PFA to others may be viewed as an essential leadership skill. When disaster strikes communities, fostering community resilience becomes imperative. PFA may be of assistance in doing so.
Examines the psychological principles and practical guidelines for the provision of PFA as a means of fostering resilience in others. Provides in-person instruction in the RAPID model of PFA to students as well as practicing professional in a wide range of disciplines. The ability to assist people in acute distress is an essential aspect of healthcare, disaster relief, education, and leadership in all profession.
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  1. Explain the psychology of a crisis and the psychology of human resilience
  2. Identify the essential elements of the Johns Hopkins RAPID model of psychological first aid (PFA)
  3. Describe the nature of PFA
  4. Implement the RAPID model of PFA with a person in acute psychological crisis
  5. Develop a plan to foster personal, organizational, or community resilience
Methods of Assessment
This course is evaluated as follows:
  • 15% Participation
  • 85% Final Paper
Instructor Consent
No consent required
Special Comments

synchronous time will be paired with asynchronous work to meet credit requirements