Date: 13 February 2026 (Online)
Venue: Neuroscience Institute, Groote Schuur Hospital (for in-person courses only)
​Time: 09h00 to 15h30 

Course fee is R 2,200 per person
CPD points = 6 

Register Online

Psychological first aid (PFA) is a simple yet powerful way of helping someone in distress. It involves paying attention to the person’s reactions, active listening, and, if appropriate, providing practical assistance to address immediate problems and basic needs.

This course is designed for individuals who work with people — whether in healthcare, education, corporate, service, or community settings. It equips participants with essential, evidence-based skills in PFA that can assist anyone encountering emotional distress or psychological crises.

Course Content

  • Introduction to Psychological First Aid
  • Ethics of Psychological First Aid
  • Crises and Responses
  • Providing Psychological First Aid: Individuals, Children, and Groups
  • The ACR Framework: Acknowledge, Contain, Refer

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Recognise signs of emotional distress in yourself and others
  • Provide immediate, appropriate, and effective stabilising support
  • Respond with calm, clarity, and confidence during psychological crises
  • Practise self-care strategies to manage stress and protect your own well-being

A digital certificate of attendance will issued to participants of the course.
 
NB: The session will only go ahead if the minimum required number of 10 registrations is met. You will be notified once the course is confirmed. If the course does not go ahead, your registration and payment will be automatically moved to the next available date.