Citation

Spokane AR, Inman AG, Weatherford RD, Davidson AK, Straw R. Couns. Psychol. 2011; 39(8): 1128-1159.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0011000010397933

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article reviews the existing theory, research, policy, and practice of disaster mental health and the role of counseling psychology in post-disaster and catastrophic situations, all from a social justice perspective. Specifically, we discuss the phases and stages, social ecology, and individual reactions to disasters. A case study is presented, followed by mental health interventions and counseling psychology's role in these interventions at both the individual and systemic levels. We conclude with an overview of professional issues that often emerge when working in disaster areas, cultural issues that arise, and ways for counseling psychologists to become involved in this work.