Emergency Psychology
Crisis intervention
CISM
Psychosocial emergency care
I support individuals, teams and organizations in regaining stability and orientation after acute or lingering stressful or traumatic events. I work as an external trainer for a range of organisations in the areas of crisis intervention, psychological health, communication and healthy leadership.
My approach is based on current findings in psychosocial emergency care and non-clinical crisis intervention and is understood as psychological first aid .
I work with, among other things, the established concepts of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and Psychosocial Emergency Care (PSNV) . Both approaches offer proven methods to specifically stabilize people after stressful events and reduce subsequent stress.
PSNV is a German crisis intervention model and care concept that draws on many elements of CSIM but was developed independently. Both crisis intervention models are very similar in practice and methodology.
Critical Incident Stress Management - CISM
A psychological support model
following critical incidents and exceptionally distressing events
What Is CISM?
Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is a structured, multi-component framework for providing psychological and practical support following critical incidents and other highly distressing events. It was developed by Jeffrey T. Mitchell and George S. Everly Jr. and is used internationally in organisational, emergency-service and community settings. The model includes preparation and training, individual support, group-based interventions, follow-up and referral pathways.
It can help people to manage acute stress reactions, regain orientation and stabilise emotionally—whether the strain arises in a professional or private context.
CISM is intended as early crisis support. It does not replace psychotherapy, but it may help identify support needs at an early stage and facilitate access to further professional care where appropriate.
When Is CISM Used?
CISM may be considered when an event overwhelms a person’s usual coping resources.
Examples include:
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Serious accidents or sudden deaths
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Experiences of violence or threatening situations
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Highly distressing incidents in the workplace
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Situations that trigger intense feelings such as helplessness, fear or overwhelm
Such events can have delayed effects. Timely, needs-oriented support can therefore be important.
How CISM Can Help
CISM offers structured support that is adapted to the situation and the person’s needs.
Depending on the setting, this can include:
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Brief individual interventions immediately after an incident
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Supportive, orienting conversations
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Facilitated group discussions, where appropriate
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Individual one-to-one conversations
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Follow-up contacts to review ongoing support needs and provide referral where required
The aim is to provide safety, stabilisation and orientation, and to recognise any need for further professional support early on.
Important Limits
CISM can provide early, structured support following a critical incident. It is not psychotherapy and does not replace clinical assessment or treatment where these are needed. Participation in any group-based intervention is voluntary, and support is tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences.
CISM in Organisations
Many organisations use elements of CISM as part of crisis preparedness and response. Its potential role includes preparing staff and leaders, offering immediate and voluntary support after an incident, strengthening communication and referral pathways, and helping an organisation maintain its capacity to act during a crisis.
I work in accordance with the standards of the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) and am certified in Critical Incident Stress Management (CCISM).
I would be happy to discuss personally how psychosocial emergency care (PSNV) and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) can provide support in distressing situations, as well as the prevention and training options available for your organisation.
I also support private individuals in psychosocial emergencies—promptly, discreetly and tailored to their individual circumstances.