Psychological first aid — a practical course

For people who want to support others

For individuals, relatives, managers, employees, club organisers and volunteers supporting adults in distress. No previous psychological knowledge is required. Team examples and support routes are adapted to the workplace.

Notice needs and create safety

• Recognise distress signals and urgent support needs
• Understand the situation and consider your own safety
• Take physical warning signs seriously and call for help promptly

Make contact and offer support

• Approach calmly and respectfully
• Listen and clarify needs without pressuring someone to talk
• Offer orientation and simple support when someone is overwhelmed

Connect with help and recognise limits

• Address signs of self-harm risk clearly and involve professional help
• Involve trusted people, specialist services and emergency services
• Hand over responsibility appropriately and monitor your own strain

Practise and receive feedback

We use realistic fictional situations: supporting someone experiencing intense anxiety or panic, offering orientation after an accident or difficult news, and talking with someone who feels overwhelmed or makes concerning statements.

Brief teaching sections alternate with partner exercises, role-play and shared reflection. Participants alternate between supporting, observing and giving feedback. Individual exercises are voluntary; you do not have to disclose personal distressing experiences.

What you take away

• A simple approach: notice, listen and connect with appropriate help
• Practised conversation starters for the first few minutes
• A concise reminder sheet and overview of support routes
• A confirmation of attendance for the practical course

Course leader: Dr. phil. Daryl Niedermoser, federally recognised psychotherapist with experience in emergency psychology.

Scope and limits

The course teaches first aid by non-specialists. It does not qualify participants to diagnose or provide psychotherapy and does not replace medical care. It is an independent Praxis Niedermoser service, not a Samariter or ensa course; its attendance confirmation is not their certification.

Immediate danger or medical emergency: 144. For a supportive conversation during a personal crisis: 143 — Die Dargebotene Hand. The practice inbox is not an emergency contact.

Organisation

Available in Basel or in-house. The six teaching hours can be split into two half-days by agreement. Content, location, group size, materials and fees are agreed in writing before booking.

A 60-minute introductory session remains available on request; the day course allows more practice and feedback. Further training for professionals is agreed separately.

Before booking

Dates are agreed individually. Fees are set out in a written quotation. Payment is due within 20 days unless agreed otherwise. Please read the course cancellation conditions before confirming a booking.

For an enquiry, the course topic, approximate group size, preferred location and time period are sufficient. Please do not include identifiable case histories or confidential health information.

Enquire about this course