2024.09 71-3 Counseling Psychologists Assist Post-Disaster Psychological Rescue Experience in Major Disasters
Since the "Taiwan Disaster Year" began with the 921 earthquake, Taiwan has witnessed numerous significant
disaster events in recent years, resulting in extensive financial losses and loss of life. These events have profoundly
affected individuals' trust and sense of security, leading to a widespread impact on social groups and cultures. As
professional healthcare providers, counseling psychologists frequently engage in post-disaster psychological
rescue and reconstruction efforts during major disasters or crises. This practice has raised challenges for crisis
intervention during such events. Researchers thus aim to understand the landscape and challenges of psychological
rescue efforts during domestic disasters. This study uses phenomenological research methods and semi-structured
interviews to gather data. It includes interviews with six counseling psychologists, three of whom are certified
supervisors who acted as supervisors during disaster events, while the other three provided crisis intervention
services as psychologists. The study categorizes its findings into two main themes and eight sub-themes:
Experiences of counseling psychologists in post-disaster psychological support: (1) Self-assessment and
professional knowledge before providing post-disaster psychological support: This theme explores how
psychologists evaluate their readiness and expertise before engaging in disaster relief efforts. (2) Roles and
functions of post-disaster psychological support: This examines the specific responsibilities and activities
undertaken by psychologists during the support process. (3) Preparatory, initial, mid-term, and long-term actions,
including the role of supervisors: This delves into the different stages of psychological support and the crucial role
of supervisors in guiding and supporting these efforts. (4) Multiple challenges, physical and mental stress, and
cultural and folk challenges after providing post-disaster psychological support: This theme addresses the complex
challenges psychologists face following their intervention, including stress and cultural issues. Practical planning to address the challenges of post-disaster psychological support: (1) Implementing drills and psychological
education: Emphasizes the importance of preparedness through regular drills and education. (2) Continuous
capacity building and case discussions: Highlights the need for ongoing training and discussion of cases to
enhance skills and knowledge. (3) Establishing lists and supervisory relationships: Focuses on creating structured
relationships and lists to streamline support efforts. (4) Familiarity with cloud and information operations: Stresses
the need for proficiency in modern technology to facilitate efficient support. (5) Adjusting expectations and service
mentality: Discusses the necessity of adapting expectations and maintaining a service-oriented mindset. Based on
the research results, the researcher proposes a systematic approach comprising three steps ("Stop, Look, Ask") and
nine specific suggestions for post-disaster psychological support, serving as a practical reference for crisis
intervention practice: "Stop"—before intervention: (1) Self-assess physical and mental state and willingness to
engage: Psychologists need to evaluate their readiness and motivation. (2) Equip with necessary professional
knowledge and capacity building: Psychologists need to ensure that they have the required expertise and training.
(3) Cultivate the ability for multicultural intervention: Develop skills to effectively engage with diverse cultural
backgrounds. "Look"—during intervention: (1) Understand the roles and functions and fit them appropriately:
Matching roles and tasks to individuals' strengths. (2) Adjust intervention actions at different stages: Modify
approaches according to the phase of intervention. (3) Understand challenges and respond positively: Recognize
and constructively address difficulties encountered. "Ask"—after intervention: (1) Physical and mental selfadjustment
and return to original balance: Focusing on recovery and well-being. (2) Seek supervisory assistance to
reorganize intervention experiences: Utilizing supervision to reflect and improve.(3) Curriculum development and
continued education for capacity building: Advocating for ongoing education and training in disaster psychology.
Finally, the study concludes with recommendations for future research and suggests areas for further exploration to
enhance the effectiveness of psychological support in disaster scenarios.
Keywords
Counseling psychologist, major disaster events, post-disaster psychological rescue
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