October 23, 2009
Friday
9 am – 4 pm

Program Fee: Free
Contact Hours:5 (.5 CEU)
Approved by the
• National Board for Certified Counselors
• Pennsylvania Certification Board• • Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors.

To register,
email Kyessa Brian
(briankl@upmc.edu)
 

“Thank God the church was there!” How often have we heard this sentiment expressed in the wake of natural disaster and other times of stress?  In fact, congregations are often among the early (and continuing) responders to traumatic incidents involving individuals, families, and whole communities. This event is designed to help pastors and churches learn to maximize their effectiveness at such times by learning the principles of Psychological First Aid. 

Psychological First Aid is an evidence-informed approach for assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families in the aftermath of disaster, terrorism, and other crisis events.  It is designed for helpers to give practical assistance to meet immediate needs and concerns, reduce distress, and foster adaptive coping. This training is being offered to expand the skills of faith communities, behavioral health workers, and other disaster responders across the Commonwealth.
 

John D. Weaver, LCSW, BCD, ACSW is a founding partner of EYE OF THE STORM, Inc., a private consultation and education group practice specializing in disaster mental health, crisis intervention, and risk management related training and support.   Since 1992, Weaver has been an active volunteer with the American Red Cross (ARC) and is a recipient of its Clara Barton Honor Award for Meritorious Volunteer Leadership.   Throughout his career, he has presented seminars and papers at state and national conferences in social work, psychology, counseling, and nursing.   He is the author of three books, including Disasters: Mental Health Interventions.