Critical Incidence Stress Debriefing

CISM is a multifaceted system for intervening in a crisis situation developed by George S. Everly, George S. Everly, Jr., and Jeffrey T. Mitchell. This system uses various components that address the entire spectrum of a critical circumstance. CISM interventions begin at the onset of the crisis and continue through the peak and well on into the post-crisis phase. CISM is a fully comprehensive treatment as it addresses individuals, groups, families and communities. This method of healing is provided as an immediate response to trauma that overwhelms and debilitates a community or individual. When extreme events occur suddenly, a person is often unable to cope and function. CISM is applied at the immediate moment of realization and is aimed at helping the client process and accept the circumstances to the point of being able to sustain functionality.

• How does CISM Work?
• Practice of CISM
• Resources Related to Critical Incidence Stress Debriefing

How does CISM Work?

CISM works with a client by addressing only one occurrence or event at a time rather than exploring and examining subsequent events as this can be counterproductive to the client. The client is encouraged to talk about the crisis in a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment. This form of treatment is usually administered by first responders and those intervening represent a peer group to the client. This element alone instills a feeling of connectedness and non-threatening engagement to the client in which he can freely remove his natural defense responses and become open to therapy.

Practice of CISM

First responders and other trauma specialists are trained in the practice of Critical Incidence Stress Debriefing and their role in this capacity of delivering treatment is crucial to the recovery of the client. Critical Incident Stress Management maintains the same confidentiality of a traditional therapy session, unless the client is a threat to others or themselves. The goal of CISM is to maintain the safety of the client and to facilitate the return to prior levels of productivity and functionality that were maintained before the onset of the traumatic event.

Resources Related to Critical Incidence Stress Debriefing:

Wikipedia's Page about Critical_Incident_Stress_Management

CISM International

The International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF)

American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress