In times of tragedy, students look to their advisors for answers. If we have established trusting relationships, our offices can be a refuge. Taking time to talk, listen, be quiet and, if appropriate, suggest counseling, can make all the difference.
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Occasionally, students enter their advising session with personal baggage to share with their advisor that detours the conversation away from the normal advising issues. Knowledge of psychological first aid (PFA) give advisors tools to support students who are striving to overcome a traumatically challenging situation before making a referral to another support resource on or off campus.
