A Peer Support Person (PSP), enlisted, warrant officer or commissioned officer, is a specifically trained colleague not a counselor or therapist. PSPs should be chosen from volunteers who are currently in good standing with their unit and who have received recommendations from their superiors and/or peers. Considerations for selection of PSP candidates include but are not limited to previous education and training, resolved traumatic experience, and desirable interpersonal qualities, such as maturity, judgment and personal and professional credibility.
The training we provide normally requires 3 full days to provide information and engage in the interactive elements of the program. The basic subjects we cover are:
Definition of and in-depth discussions of a "Critical Incident" and its effects on people.
Personality Profiles - what makes us tick.
Peer Support Mechanics
Military Service Stress
Deployment Issues
Overcoming Depression
Active Constructive Response/Active Listening Skills
Peer Support Response
Substance Abuse and Prevention Training
Suicide Intervention
Sexual Assault Prevention Overview
After Action Debriefs
Financial Assistance and Benefits
Situational Scenario Training - This is the final portion of the training which allows the students to use the information from the previous 2 1/2 days and participate as a peer counselor with a role player.
End of Course Survey results are on file and available upon request. |