Psychological First Aid
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20161123082450im_/http://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/assets/images/pfalogo.jpg?1301514608)
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network and the National Center for PTSD are pleased to make the Second Edition of Psychological First Aid Field Operations Guide and accompanying handouts available. Psychological First Aid is an evidence-informed approach for assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families in the aftermath of disaster and terrorism.
The Psychological First Aid Field Manual is divided into the following sections:
Introduction and Overview
Preparing to Deliver Psychological First Aid
The Core Actions
- Contact and Engagement
- Safety and Comfort
- Stabilization
- Information Gathering: Current Needs and Concerns
- Practical Assistance
- Connection with Social Supports
- Information on Coping
- Linkage with Collaborative Services
PFA Wallet Card - Summarizes the Eight Core Actions
Appendices
In addition to the English-language edition of Psychological First Aid (PFA), there are versions in Spanish, Japanese, and Chinese.
Psychological First Aid—Field Operations Manual- 2nd Edition
Chapter | Language | |||
PFA Manual complete with Appendices | ||||
PFA Manual without Appendices | ||||
Appendices A — E | ||||
Appendix A—Overview of PFA | ||||
Appendix B—Service Delivery Sites and Settings | ||||
Appendix C—PFA Provider Care | ||||
Appendix D—Provider Worksheets | ||||
Appendix E—Handouts for Survivors | ||||
E1—Connecting with Others: Seeking Social Support (For adults and adolescents) | ||||
E2—Connecting with Others: Giving Social Support (For adults and adolescents) | ||||
E3—When Terrible Things Happen (For adults and adolescents) | ||||
E4—Parent Tips for Helping Infants and Toddlers (For parents/caregivers) | ||||
E5—Parent Tips for Helping Preschool-Age Children (For parents/caregivers) | ||||
E6—Parent Tips for Helping School-Age Children (For parents/caregivers) | ||||
E7—Parent Tips for Helping Adolescents (For parents/caregivers) | ||||
E8—Tips for Adults (For parents/caregivers) | ||||
E9—Basic Relaxation Techniques (For adults, adolescents and children) | ||||
E10—Alcohol and Drug Use after Disasters (For adults and adolescents) |
Additional PFA Translations
- Psychological First Aid Field Operations Guide, Second Edition — Norwegian
- Psychological First Aid Field Operations Guide, Second Edition — Simplified Chinese
Along with the several language translations, NCTSN members have worked to develop PFA adaptations for community religious professionals, Medical Reserve Corps members, and for staff at facilities for families and youth who are experiencing homelessness.
- Psychological First Aid for Schools
- Psychological First Aid Field Operations Guide for Community Religious Professionals
- Psychological First Aid Medical Reserve Corps Field Operations Guide
- Psychological First Aid for Families Experiencing Homelessness
- Psychological First Aid for Youth Experiencing Homelessness
Multiple copies of our PFA manuals are available to purchase: