Certificate Programme in Psychological First Aid in Disasters
Published on June 20, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, Today we're speaking with Dr. Sofia Patel, a renowned psychologist and the lead instructor for the Certificate Programme in Psychological First Aid in Disasters. Dr. Patel, thank you for joining us. GUEST: Thanks for having me. I'm excited to be here. HOST: Could you share some of your personal experiences that led you to create this course? GUEST: Absolutely. I've worked with disaster survivors for over a decade, and I've seen firsthand how crucial mental health support is during crises. But often, professionals on the ground lack the necessary training. HOST: That's eye-opening. Now, what current trends do you see in psychological first aid for disasters? GUEST: There's a growing recognition of the importance of early intervention. Also, we're focusing more on building resilience, not just treating trauma. HOST: So, what are some challenges faced in teaching or learning this subject? GUEST: The biggest challenge is the emotional intensity of the material. But we've designed the course to be supportive and practical, helping participants build confidence. HOST: That's great to hear. Lastly, how do you envision the future of psychological first aid in disasters? GUEST: I believe it will become a standard part of disaster response training. Our goal is to equip more people with the skills to help their communities in times of crisis. HOST: Dr. Patel, thank you for your insights and for the vital work you're doing. We're sure the Certificate Programme in Psychological First Aid in Disasters will make a significant impact. GUEST: Thank you. It's a pleasure to be here.
