Early Intervention
Mental Health Matters—From the First Call
Critical Incident Response & Crisis Support
In the Immediate Aftermath of Traumatic Events
When trauma strikes, timely and compassionate support is crucial. We are ready to respond—providing critical incident and crisis support exactly when it’s needed most.
Our approach not only addresses the immediate emotional impact of traumatic events and acute stressors, but also lays the foundation for Post-Traumatic Growth—helping individuals and teams recover, rebuild, and emerge stronger.
We’re here. When it matters most.
What is a Critical Incident?
A Critical Incident is defined as any event that causes an overwhelming sense of vulnerability and/or a loss of control. These incidents can be intensely stressful and emotionally impactful, especially for those in high-risk professions like law enforcement, emergency services, or military. Critical incidents often disrupt normal coping mechanisms and may require professional support to process.
Examples of Critical Incidents include:
Line-of-duty shootings
Being shot or seriously injured while on duty
High-speed pursuits that result in tragedy
Officer-involved shootings
Investigating deaths, especially under traumatic circumstances
Incidents that attract prolonged and intense media scrutiny
Personal tragedies, such as the loss of a colleague or family member
These events can have a significant psychological impact and may lead to acute stress reactions or longer-term issues such as PTSD if not properly addressed.
Listed below are the methods and best practices used
Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)
A widely used, multi-component system developed to address psychological needs following a critical incident. Key elements include:
Pre-incident Preparation
Education and training on stress reactions, resilience, and coping strategies.
Development of crisis response plans and team formation.
On-Scene Support (Defusing)
Immediate support within hours of the incident.
Short, informal discussions to assess needs and provide reassurance.
Debriefing (Critical Incident Stress Debriefing - CISD)
Structured group discussion typically 24-72 hours post-incident.
Guided by trained professionals.
Aims to process the event, normalize responses, and identify those needing further help.
Individual Crisis Intervention
One-on-one sessions with a counselor or peer support worker.
Tailored to the individual's specific needs and emotional state.
Follow-Up and Referral
Continued support and monitoring.
Referrals to mental health professionals for those requiring ongoing care.
Psychological First Aid (PFA)
A more flexible and scalable model than CISM, widely used in disaster response and emergency management.
Key Principles (the "5 Components"):
Safety – Ensure physical and emotional safety.
Calm – Help individuals feel calm and oriented.
Connectedness – Encourage connection with others.
Self-efficacy – Support confidence and empowerment.
Hope – Reinforce a positive outlook and hope for the future.
Application:
Delivered by trained professionals or laypersons.
Immediate, short-term psychological support (often within hours to days).
Does not involve forced debriefing.
Peer Support Programs
Trained colleagues provide emotional and psychological support.
Especially common in emergency services, military, and healthcare.
Builds trust and reduces stigma around seeking help.
Trauma-Informed Care
Recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and promotes environments of healing and recovery.
Focuses on safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, and empowerment.
Organizational Crisis Management Protocols
Formal procedures and crisis teams in place for:
Incident assessment and communication.
Employee support and return-to-work processes.
Review and evaluation of response effectiveness.
Volunteer support groups
Boots on the Ground - anonymous Ontario based helpline
Badge of Life - virtual support groups
Wounded Warriors Project - programs and support
Provide immediate, confidential support and referrals.