Disaster Psychology

SDPA provides mental health support to disaster survivors and workers across the disaster continuum of preparedness, mitigation, response/recovery and promotion of resiliency.  Through continuing education courses and seminars in the community, the Disaster Psychology Committee educates mental health professionals, as well as the public, about how to care for themselves and others before, during and after disasters.  In San Diego County, the Committee members work through the American Red Cross chapter.  Some Committee members are also members of the Medical Reserve Corp.  Our members provide American Red Cross training to the Medical Reserve Corp members.  An intensive training prepares licensed psychologists and other mental health professionals to respond to local, state and national disasters.  As members of the Disaster Response Network (DRN), our Committee members are also ready to provide mutual aid to other psychological associations throughout the state.  For more information about this community service, please contact the office manager or the Disaster Psychology Committee Chair.