Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)
It is important to note that CISM is not counselling; instead it is a confidential, voluntary, and educational process sometimes referred to as psychological first aid.
Originally developed for military combat veterans and later adapted for civilian first responders, CISM can be applied in various settings whenever there’s a need to address the impact of trauma in people's lives. For instance, CISM groups are often helpful for groups after variety of events such as, firings, special investigations, or other stressful events such as loss.
The goal of every CISM group is to provide stabilization and support to those involved in an incident so they can feel more confident in returning to their regular routines.
Groups are structured on involving those who were in a stressful incident to express their experience, learn about stress reactions and symptoms, discuss ways to manage emotions related to the event, and receive referrals for further assistance if necessary.
How It Works:
No referrals are needed to request a group session. Simply email me at Lindsay@InnateRenewal.ca or submit a contact form on this website.
I will then contact you to discuss the details and tailor the experience to meet the participants' needs.
Types of CISM's
Depending on the situation, group needs, and timing of the incident, CISM is usually structured as either a debriefing or a defusing.
Debriefing: Debriefings are typically group meetings that address a particularly distressing incident. A debriefing aims to alleviate the impact of the event, support recovery from associated stress, and encourage participants to apply their coping skills during this time. Ideally, debriefings should occur within 24 to 72 hours after the incident (although they may happen later in some cases).
Defusing: Defusing is a less formal version of a debriefing and is best held within 12 hours of the incident. The meeting allows the group to learn about physiological symptoms of stress, share reactions and express emotions. Defusing aims to stabilize individuals affected by the incident and help them feel safe enough to return to their routines. *I will do my best to respond promptly to defusing requests, though timing may not always be feasible.*
What will be discussed?
CISM is not counselling; instead it is a confidential, voluntary, and educational process. Topics may include:
Physiological Stress Responses
Grounding Techinques
Promoting a sense of safety & calm
Coping Mechanisms
Emotional Regulation
Importance of Connection/Social Supports
Information & Resources
Self-Care and Adaptive Coping
Stress Management
Considerations
3-10 participants per group
Groups are scheduled for 2 hours
Virtual/Remote option (secure platform)
In-person options (North Bay/Sudbury)
Fees begin at $80 per participant
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