1. Psychological First Aid (PFA)

Psychological First Aid provides immediate emotional and practical support to individuals in crisis. It helps people feel safe, calm, and connected during emergencies or traumatic events.

Core Actions of PFA:

• Listen with empathy
• Offer comfort and reassurance
• Assess needs and concerns
• Connect individuals to resources and support

2. Motivational Interviewing (MI)

Motivational Interviewing helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence toward change. It enhances motivation by aligning behavior with personal values.

Key MI Tools:

• OARS: Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summarizing
• Develop discrepancy and encourage self-efficacy
• Empathize and evoke internal motivation

3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT, developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, is a structured therapy combining mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

DBT Skills Include:

• Mindfulness – Being present without judgment
• Distress Tolerance – Managing crisis without impulsivity
• Emotional Regulation – Understanding and controlling emotions
• Interpersonal Effectiveness – Building healthy relationships

Integrating the Three Approaches

By combining PFA, MI, and DBT, counselors can effectively support clients in both acute and long-term mental health situations — from crisis recovery to behavioral transformation.

Emocare offers structured workshops that train psychologists and students in these globally recognized therapeutic models.