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Eric Klingensmith
Grand Valley State University
Counseling and Career Development Center
1 Campus Dr. - STU 204
Allendale, MI 49401
(616) 331-3266
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 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 helplines, 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. Attention will also be paid to human service and disaster relief workers. A review of the stress prevention concepts for those providing services will also be presented.
A portion of the session will be set aside for questions and responses.
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