International Critical Incident Stress Foundation

International Critical Incident Stress Foundation The International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc. To learn more, visit our website at www.icisf.org.
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ICISF provides support and information about disaster behavioral health to the emergency response professions, other organizations, and communities throughout the world. (ICISF) is a not for profit, 501(c)3 organization and our mission is to be the leader in providing education, training, consultation, and support services in comprehensive crisis intervention and disaster behavioral health services to emergency responders, and other professions, organizations and communities worldwide. Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is a method of helping first responders and others who have been involved in critical incidents that leave them emotionally and/or physically affected by those incidents. CISM is a process that enables peers to help their peers understand problems that might occur after a crises. This process also helps individuals prepare to continue to perform their services or in some cases return to a normal lifestyle. ICISF provides CISM education, training and resources for individuals interested in becoming part of a crisis management team, or for an organization/profession that is dedicated to helping individuals or groups recover from a crises.

Crisis intervention focuses on stabilizing reactions, reducing distress, and helping people regain enough control to mov...
01/13/2026

Crisis intervention focuses on stabilizing reactions, reducing distress, and helping people regain enough control to move forward safely.

These early actions can influence decision-making, communication, and recovery long after the immediate moment has passed.

Crisis intervention is a skill set that can be learned, practiced, and applied within your team.

Join us at our upcoming virtual trainings: �
👉Feb 11: Su***de Awareness - An Intro for Crisis Responders
👉Feb 16: Group Refreshers
👉Feb 19-20: Advanced Assisting Individuals in Crisis

Learn more and register at icisf.org/virtual-training/

Emotional regulation isn’t a “soft skill” for first responders—it’s a survival skill.Every call, scene, and critical inc...
01/12/2026

Emotional regulation isn’t a “soft skill” for first responders—it’s a survival skill.

Every call, scene, and critical incident places demands not just on your body, but on your nervous system. Emotional regulation is what allows first responders to stay grounded under pressure, make clear decisions in chaos, and recover after the crisis has passed—not just push through it.

Emotional resilience means:
✨ Building mental strength that holds up during repeated exposure to trauma
✨ Recognizing stress responses before they become burnout or compassion fatigue
✨ Developing self-awareness that supports healthier reactions on scene and at home
✨ Creating sustainable post-crisis recovery instead of cumulative stress injuries

Through evidence-informed crisis intervention education, first responders learn practical tools to regulate emotions in real time, support peers effectively, and strengthen long-term well-being.

Upcoming Training Supporting Emotional Regulation & Resilience:
• Group Crisis Refresher — Feb 16, 2026
• Advanced Assisting Individuals in Crisis — Feb 19–20, 2026
• Assisting Individuals in Crisis & Group Crisis Intervention — Feb 24–26, 2026
• LWL: Understanding Key Research Findings in PFA, CISD, and CISM — Mar 16, 2026
• Assisting Individuals in Crisis & Group Crisis Intervention — Mar 18–20, 2026

These courses reinforce skills that help responders stay mission-ready without sacrificing their mental health. 👉 For full course details and registration, visit:
https://icisf.org/virtual-training/

When crisis responders are prepared, lives change—and lives are saved.Crisis intervention isn’t just a skill set; it’s a...
01/11/2026

When crisis responders are prepared, lives change—and lives are saved.

Crisis intervention isn’t just a skill set; it’s a lifeline. In moments of acute stress, suicidal ideation, or overwhelming loss, how a responder shows up can determine whether someone feels isolated—or supported enough to survive the moment. Evidence-based crisis intervention training equips responders with the awareness, structure, and confidence to intervene effectively, ethically, and compassionately when it matters most.

Upcoming Virtual Training:
• Group Crisis Refresher — Feb 16, 2026
• Advanced Assisting Individuals in Crisis — Feb 19–20, 2026
• Assisting Individuals in Crisis & Group Crisis Intervention — Feb 24–26, 2026
• LWL: Understanding Key Research Findings in PFA, CISD, and CISM — Mar 16, 2026
• Assisting Individuals in Crisis & Group Crisis Intervention — Mar 18–20, 2026

If you support people on their worst days—first responders, clinicians, peer supporters, leaders—this training strengthens your ability to recognize risk, intervene with purpose, and support recovery long after the crisis moment passes.

Preparation saves lives. Are you ready for the moment that counts? 👉 Learn more & register: https://icisf.org/virtual-training/

***deAwareness

Bringing world-class expertise to your organization has never been easier! 🌍✨ Today, we are highlighting a true pioneer ...
01/10/2026

Bringing world-class expertise to your organization has never been easier! 🌍✨ Today, we are highlighting a true pioneer in the field: ICISF Co-Founder, Dr. George Everly, Jr., PhD.

Dr. Everly is a leading authority on human stress and psychological trauma. With appointments at Johns Hopkins and Loyola University, and as a consultant to organizations like the United Nations, he has spent over 40 years helping the world understand and build resilience in the face of adversity.

Looking to dive deep into the science of trauma? Don't miss his specialized course: 🎓 Psychotraumatology: A Cognitive Therapeutic Approach

In this intensive program, Dr. Everly guides participants through the neurocognitive foundations of PTSD. It’s a must-attend for mental health professionals looking to master:
✅ Biological and psychological mechanisms of PTSD
✅ The "Violated World View" in trauma
✅ Modern cognitive therapy vs. traditional approaches

Ready to elevate your team’s training with a legend in the field? Email Millie for more information at milliem@icisf.org.

🔗 Meet Dr. Everly: https://icisf.org/everly-jr-phd-fapm-cts-george-s/
🔗 Explore the Psychotraumatology Course: https://icisf.org/psychotraumatology-a-cognitive-therapeutic-approach/

Today, on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, the ICISF joins the nation in recognizing the extraordinary men and...
01/09/2026

Today, on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, the ICISF joins the nation in recognizing the extraordinary men and women who serve on the front lines of our communities.

To the officers who answer the call at any hour, who face uncertainty with courage, and who carry the weight of critical incidents long after their shift ends: We see you. Our mission at ICISF is to ensure that those who protect others are themselves protected. We understand that true resilience isn't about being invincible; it’s about having the support, peer care, and resources to navigate the mental and emotional toll of the job.

Today, we express our deepest gratitude for your sacrifice, your professionalism, and your unwavering commitment to public safety. We are honored to stand with you, providing the training and CISM support you need to remain resilient and healthy.

To all law enforcement professionals: Thank you for your service. Please remember that you don't have to walk this path alone. 🤝 www.icisf.org

As we prepare to ring in the New Year, the ICISF family wants to take a moment to honor the incredible resilience of our...
12/31/2025

As we prepare to ring in the New Year, the ICISF family wants to take a moment to honor the incredible resilience of our global community of first responders, healthcare workers, and crisis intervenors. 🌟

The end of a year often brings a mix of reflection and anticipation. For those who spent 2025 on the front lines, it may also bring the weight of the "critical incidents" encountered along the way. Remember: Resilience isn’t about never feeling the weight—it’s about having the support and the tools to carry it.

As you celebrate tonight—whether you’re on shift or at home with loved ones—take a breath, acknowledge your strength, and know that you are never alone in this mission.

Here’s to a 2026 filled with connection, healing, and the continued power of peer support. Happy New Year! ✨💙

In high-stress situations, effective communication isn't just a skill—it's a lifeline.For crisis responders, clear, empa...
12/31/2025

In high-stress situations, effective communication isn't just a skill—it's a lifeline.

For crisis responders, clear, empathetic, and strategic communication is the foundation for de-escalation, establishing rapport, and successfully guiding individuals and groups through trauma.

It helps you assess needs, convey safety, and facilitate the path to recovery. Invest in the communication tools that save lives and promote resilience!

Sharpen your communication skills with these essential courses in crisis intervention:
Jan. 14, 2026: De-escalation Skills for the Frontline (Last Day to Register!)
January 19-21, 2026: Assisting Individuals in Crisis & Group Crisis Intervention
January 27-28, 2026: Advanced Group Crisis Intervention
February 2-4, 2026: Assisting Individuals in Crisis & Group Crisis Intervention
February 19-20, 2026: Advanced Assisting Individuals in Crisis

✅ See all remote learning courses and register today: https://icisf.org/remote-learning/

You are the lifeline for others in their most challenging moments, but who takes care of you? Sustained crisis response ...
12/30/2025

You are the lifeline for others in their most challenging moments, but who takes care of you? Sustained crisis response can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma.

Prioritizing self-care is not selfish—it is foundational for professional effectiveness and personal well-being.

Strengthen your professional skills and enhance your capacity to serve by registering for these upcoming courses:
🗓️ Feb. 11, 2026: Su***de Awareness: An Introduction for Crisis Responders
🗓️ February 19-20, 2026: Advanced Assisting Individuals in Crisis

🔗 Learn More & Register: https://icisf.org/remote-learning/

🔥 Something new is coming in 2026-2027... are you ready? 🔥From the front lines to the control room, every crisis respond...
12/29/2025

🔥 Something new is coming in 2026-2027... are you ready? 🔥

From the front lines to the control room, every crisis responder knows that resilience, best-practice skills, and powerful peer connection are vital for sustaining a career in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).

At ICISF, we are changing and expanding our conference experience to ensure you have maximum support for your professional and personal well-being. Get ready for an exciting new chapter:

✨ NEW ICISF eConnect (Launching 2nd half of 2026): Elite 1-Day Virtual Conferences designed to deliver high-impact training and cutting-edge research directly to your location, maximizing your professional development without sacrificing critical time away from the field.

✨ ICISF Connect (Spring 2027): Our premier in-person experience, offering specialized learning tracks for Law Enforcement, CISM Teams, Mental Health, and focusing heavily on holistic Stress Resilience & Wellness.

Prepare to redefine your approach to crisis support and recharge your resilience. Keep an eye out for our "Save the Date," coming in early 2026!

Stay tuned for more details on our Conferences and Events page!

Help us turn the page to 2026 with strength! 🕊️2025 has been a landmark year for ICISF. We’ve seen firsthand how Peer Su...
12/28/2025

Help us turn the page to 2026 with strength! 🕊️

2025 has been a landmark year for ICISF. We’ve seen firsthand how Peer Support changes lives, reduces burnout, and restores hope after traumatic events.

The Value of Your Support: Did you know that early intervention through CISM can significantly lower the risk of long-term psychological injury? Your donation ensures this life-saving education remains accessible to the responders who need it most.

As you plan your final 2025 contributions, please consider ICISF. Together, we are saving crisis responders.

🔗 Donate now: https://icisf.kindful.com/?campaign=332243

What's the most critical tool in your mental health preparedness toolkit?When facing the emotional demands of critical i...
12/27/2025

What's the most critical tool in your mental health preparedness toolkit?

When facing the emotional demands of critical incidents, the ICISF is dedicated to building resilience and strengthening peer support capacity through proven Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) resources.

Knowledge empowers effective care. Equip yourself and your team with essential training materials, CISM manuals, and educational tools straight from the source.

➡️ Shop the official CISMbookstore today: https://www.cismbookstore.com/

Crisis responders operate on the front lines, witnessing trauma and loss that can deeply impact their own emotional well...
12/26/2025

Crisis responders operate on the front lines, witnessing trauma and loss that can deeply impact their own emotional well-being. It's crucial to acknowledge and process the cumulative grief that often accompanies this demanding work.

Unprocessed grief can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, relationship strain, and mental health challenges. Prioritizing education on crisis intervention and self-care is not just a benefit—it's a professional necessity for long-term resilience.

Invest in your mental health and professional toolkit with these essential remote courses:
- January 27-28, 2026: Advanced Group Crisis Intervention
- Feb. 11, 2026: Su***de Awareness: An Introduction for Crisis Responders

Don't wait to prioritize your well-being! Equip yourself with the knowledge to manage crisis-related stress and grief, both for yourself and those you serve.

🔗 Register for these virtual training today: https://icisf.org/remote-learning/

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3290 Pine Orchard Lane, Ste 106
Ellicott City, MD
21042

Website

https://mailchi.mp/icisf.org/email-sign-up

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The International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc. (ICISF) is a not for profit, 501(c)3 organization and our mission is to provide leadership, education, training, consultation, and support services in comprehensive crisis intervention and disaster behavioral health services to the emergency response professions, other organizations, and communities worldwide.

Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is a method of helping first responders and others who have been involved in critical incidents that leave them emotionally and/or physically affected by those incidents. CISM is a process that enables peers to help their peers understand problems that might occur after an event. This process also helps people prepare to continue to perform their services or in some cases return to a normal lifestyle.

ICISF provides training for individuals interested in becoming a part of a crisis management team, or for an organization that is dedicated to helping individuals or groups recover from incidents. To learn more, visit our website at www.icisf.org.