Yet another act of senseless violence - that will undoubtedly create lasting impact on children, families and communities - requires marriage and family therapists to put forward their skills, knowledge and experience to help those immediately impacted by threats to our sense of safety.
As we have done before (too often it seems), our Board of Directors and staff add our voices to the chorus of support for those affected in Florida, their families, and our first responders – including our Florida MFTs – who are facing this crisis head on. In the coming days, we encourage all to remember there is a systemic impact from these events that can affect anyone. We know that many of our members and their clients will be struggling with processing these events or explaining the news to their children. The resources below have been created by member MFTs or compiled by AAMFT to help support this process.
- Tips for Parenting During Times of Crisis
- Spinning Fear
- Fear and the Family
- The Neuroscience of Fear
- Put the Oxygen Mask on Yourself First- Self Care when Working with the Traumatized
Many helping professionals and MFTs in affected areas are offering support or volunteering free or low-cost services to those in the Broward County community who are struggling. We will continue to add to this list as more information becomes available. To find a therapist, you can utilize our directory here: Find a Therapist.
- Broward County has set up an emotional support hotline for those affected. Call 211 for help.
- Grief counseling is available on Thursday, February 15 at these locations, beginning at 8 a.m.. Details available at the link.
- The Florida Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (FAMFT) Broward County Chapter President will be working with local school officials to assist in forming a support team. The state association will also be hosting a one-hour free training, Dealing with the Aftermath of a Tragedy, on Friday, February 16. Flyer: Download Dealing With the Aftermath of Tragedy.
