The only realistic solution to fulfilling our pledge to train all staff and volunteers on psychological first aid is to train trainers! The cascade effect of training of trainers (ToT) is so incredible as knowledge and skills in psychological first aid (PFA) can be shared widely in a short period of time.
The Training of Trainers (ToT) in Psychological First Aid for Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is a three-day face-to-face training accompanying Module 2: Basic PFA. The ToT module prepares trainees to conduct their own trainings in the PFA manual Module 2: Basic PFA that can be delivered in one day and can be extended for up to two days.
Module 2: Basic PFA introduces basic psychological first aid skills and presents a range of situations faced by adults, their reactions to crises, and how helpers may respond appropriately. This module is designed for staff and volunteers with some prior knowledge and experience in providing psychosocial support, while the recently published ToT manual takes the next step in expanding PFA by training trainers.
Even more important, the PFA ToT is fun! It is an engaging training where participants develop their training skills through participating in exciting activities that boost their understanding of PFA while they practice training others.
This new ToT module prepares trainees to conduct their own trainings in the PFA manual Module 2 Basic PFA that can be delivered in one day and can be extended for up to two days. This ToT module can be adapted to be conducted online. If adapting the ToT, it is recommended to consult the PS Centre guide Online MHPSS facilitation and the series of webinar series Behind the screens, episodes 1 to 3 on how to plan and conduct MHPSS trainings online.
As a minumum requirement, trainees should be familiar with A Guide to Psychological First Aid for Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the booklet A Short Introduction to Psychological First Aid for Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies:
Access all PFA modules and guides developed by the PS Centre to learn more about psychological aid.
Contact the PS Centre for additional support and information about the centre’s trainings.
