Psychological First Aid (PFA) Training
What is PFA?
Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a supportive, evidence-based approach to helping individuals cope with the immediate aftermath of a crisis or traumatic event. It's designed to offer comfort, promote safety, and connect people with the resources they need for recovery. PFA is not therapy, but rather a practical, compassionate method of reducing stress and preventing further emotional harm.
Why Learn PFA?
PFA training equips you with the skills to respond effectively to those who need emotional support. Learn how to offer immediate assistance, manage stress, and create a safe environment for others in times of crisis.
Request PFA Training for Your Organization
First Responder Spiritual Resilience Training (Coming soon!)
This training is designed to support responder wellness through science-based strategies for meaning, purpose, and resilience. It does not promote or require any particular faith or worldview.
First responders face repeated exposure to crisis, trauma, and moral injury. Building resilience requires more than physical and mental fitness, it also involves strengthening the deeper sense of meaning, purpose, and connection that sustains us through adversity. The spiritual component of wellness is recognized by organizations such as SAMHSA, the American Psychological Association, and the U.S. Department of Defense as a core dimension of health.
The Spiritual Resilience Training is a free, half-day course offered by the KCCRT. This is not a religious training; instead, it explores practical tools, scientific research, and diverse traditions to help responders cultivate inner strength.
Participants will learn:
- What spiritual resilience is and why it matters for responder wellness
- Evidence-based practices that reduce stress and support recovery
- Strategies to build hope, meaning, and connection in difficult times
This training is available at no cost to agencies as part of Kentucky’s statewide crisis response program.
KCCRT Available for Your Event
Invite a KCCRT representative to enhance your event with expert knowledge in critical incident stress management and psychological first aid. Our presence will showcase your commitment to community well-being and ensure attendees gain valuable guidance for effective recovery.
Request KCCRT to be a vendor and/or present at your event
Technical Assistance
KCCRT leadership offers tailored technical assistance to local first responder and community peer support teams. We provide guidance, training, and resources to help agencies navigate critical incidents, enhance team performance, and foster resilience. Our services include:
- Consultation: Comprehensive advice tailored to your needs.
- Networking Opportunities: Facilitate connections and knowledge sharing.
- Best Practices: Access to proven strategies for effective peer support.
Request technical assistance
Training Resources
Crisis Response Care: Access training to impact communities and support first responder networks.
SAMHSA DTAC "Just in Time" Training: Quick overview of the CCP and skills for behavioral health services after a disaster.
NCTSN Learning Center Psychological First Aid: 5-hour interactive course covering PFA core actions and provider well-being.
SAMHSA Service to Self-Training: Free online course addressing mental health and substance use issues among fire and EMS personnel.
First Responder Creating Safe Scenes Training: Training on mental health, mental illness, and substance use disorders for better self-care and assessment.
Shield of Resilience Training: Helps law enforcement recognize signs of stress, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts.
The Mental Health Technology Transfer Center (MHTTC): Provides resources, training, and technical assistance to the mental health workforce.
National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT): Represents the professional interests of prehospital and out-of-hospital emergency care providers.
Trauma-Informed Disaster Response Course: Enhances emotional intelligence and provides new techniques for disaster response.
Mental Health America: Championing mental health through advocacy, education, and research to build a better, more equitable future for all.