Basic Principles of Disaster Mental Health

Eric Klingensmith, Psy.D., PEM

Grand Valley State University Counseling Center

1 Campus Dr. - STU 204 - Allendale, MI 49401

616-331-3266

klingene@gvsu.edu



Disasters can be natural or man-made, quick to occur, or develop over a period of time. However they happen, disasters have a great impact both psychologically and emotionally on the survivors and those who provide aid to them. In a disaster, mental health professionals of all levels from community mental health centers, private practices, and even community help-lines, may be asked to assist in relief operations. As professionals who may provide disaster mental health counseling to those affected, it is important to realize that disaster mental health services is a specialized field of training and has some unique concepts and concerns.

The purpose of this workshop is to provide an overview of disaster mental health and increase awareness of issues specific to disaster mental health situations. The course will discuss the phases and impact of a disaster. Topics will also include potential reactions of individuals with concerns related to age, cultural/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and serious and persistent mental illness.

In the second half of the workshop we will build upon the first half and discuss more about disaster preparedness from a mental health perspective. This will include strategies to help your organization or agency prepare to continue working after a disaster and also tips to work better with existing agencies and departments in your community, whether they are non-profit human service agencies or local, county, or state emergency management departments.

A portion of the session will be set aside for questions and if time permits a scenario based simulation and exercise.

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