COUN 567 Foundations in Disaster Mental Health
The purpose of this course is to expose students to fundamental concepts of disaster mental health (DMH). This includes definitions of key constructs related to working as a DMH responder within various response agencies/organizations. Theories associated with conceptualizing DMH are reviewed along with psychosocial factors associated with trauma responses (e.g., age, ability, gender, cultural and racial identities, class, and spirituality/religious faith). Students will be exposed to an overview of the cognitive, affective, behavioral, neurological sequelae associated with trauma. Introduction and application of skills and techniques utilized in disaster mental health, including assessment and triage, safety and security concerns, facilitation of validation, and preparation and rehearsal for maintenance will also be addressed. Special topics in DMH, including assessment of lethality, mass disaster, death notification, suicide of the young, and the role of spirituality will be reviewed. Understanding concepts related to caring for first responders and caregivers, including compassion fatigue and vicarious traumatization will be introduced. Students are expected to challenge themselves and consider their own strengths and limitations, and how these might influence their work as DMH responders.
Offered
Offered As Needed Annually