Psychological First Aid (PFA) is the mental and emotional equivalent of medical First Aid.

PFA training courses equip people to provide emotional and practical support to individuals and whānau who have experienced a large-scale disaster or a personal traumatic incident.

These courses are designed for anyone working with people and communities following an emergency or distressing event.

The courses are run by Red Cross and sponsored by the Wairarapa Recovery Office.

Register online or contact Wairarapa Recovery Office for more information and to see if you are eligible to attend.

Upcoming course dates

2025 courses

• 18 March (Carterton)
• 8 April (Greytown)
• 20 May (Masterton)

Learning outcomes

• Understand what Psychological First Aid (PFA) is.
• Become familiar with distress reactions.
• Provide PFA using ‘The Five Elements’ and the action principles:
  • Look: Know some of the warning signs.
  • Listen: How to check in, listen and respond.
  • Link: Connect the person and/or yourself to the right support.
• Practice providing PFA.