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✚ Canadian Red Cross: Psychological First Aid – 3 Year Certification

About the Course:
The Psychological First Aid course equips participants with a personal understanding of the effects of stress, loss, trauma, and grief on themselves and others, with emphasis on self-care and personal protection. Learners are introduced to the Red Cross LOOK, LISTEN, LINK, LIVE model—a resiliency-based approach to psychological, emotional, and social well-being. The course uses case-based learning and integrates current international evidence on resiliency and trauma-informed practice.

👥 Audience

Adaptable to all audiences, including youth, workplaces, and professional responders.

💡 Important Note

Unlike mental health first aid programs (focused on crisis response), Red Cross PFA is a resiliency-based program for everyone. It emphasizes prevention, coping strategies, and protective factors to manage stress arising from trauma, change, or daily challenges.

🎯 Learning Outcomes & Content

Through case-based learning and group discussion, participants explore:

✔ Introduction to the Canadian Red Cross
✔ Principles of Psychological First Aid
✔ Red Cross LOOK, LISTEN, LINK, LIVE model
✔ Case studies and scenario-based activities
✔ Stress, distress, trauma, loss, and grief
✔ Operational principles & supportive communication
✔ Recognizing indicators & supporting vulnerable populations
✔ Resiliency & protective factors
✔ Protection, policies, and legislation
✔ Self-care strategies for long-term well-being

👩‍🏫 Instructors

Delivered by two Canadian Red Cross Psychological First Aid Instructors experienced in trauma-informed and resiliency education.

📜 Certification

Type: Canadian Red Cross Psychological First Aid – 3 Year Certification
Prerequisites: Minimum age of 18
Completion: 100% participation in the course (14 hours). No formal evaluation component.

📅 Course Details

Duration: 14 hours delivered over 2 days
Schedule: Includes two breaks and a lunch period each day
Format: Classroom-based, highly interactive with case-based learning

📘 Participant Materials

Psychological First Aid Workbook
Look, Listen, Link, Live keychain cards

ℹ️ Certified Participant Access:
After successful completion, you’ll receive an email from the Canadian Red Cross confirming your Psychological First Aid certification. Log in to the Canadian Red Cross portal and:

Go to Profile → My Certifications to download your PDF certificate.
Select My Online Courses to access the online programs Caring for Self and Caring for Others.