PACFA Bush Fires Public Statement

PUBLIC STATEMENT As individuals and as professional counsellors and psychotherapists we have all been moved by the plight of those affected by the recent Victorian Bush Fires whether they are its victims, those working hard to fight fires or dealing with the hurt and homeless and bereaved. We are in the process of submitting to the Victorian Emergency Services the names of those qualified to help deal with those suffering from trauma in the immediate aftermath of the fires. We also want to offer our services and support as professionals and citizens. Most of our members are best qualified to help groups, families and individuals to deal with the next stage of recovery from this tragic event. This involves the task of working through what has happened to each person once the immediate physical needs have been taken care of. This is in order that the trauma can begin to heal and post traumatic stress does not become embedded. Therefore, when seeking out a counsellor or psychotherapist to work with, groups or individuals should ask if the professional is part of the voluntary scheme organized by PACFA and its member associations that offers free sessions to those affected by the Bush Fires. Tim Johnson – Newell PACFA President