Crisis Care Conversations

Understanding Your Role as a Crisis Responder

In this episode of Crisis Care Conversations, hosts Phil Monroe and Stacey Sutherland discuss the essential considerations for those wanting to become effective crisis responders. They explore how to evaluate if crisis response work is right for you, including examining your motivations, personal history, and current life circumstances.

Everyday Crises: Why Crisis Care Matters More Than You Think

In this inaugural episode of Crisis Care Conversations, psychologist Phil Monroe and therapist and crisis care specialist Stacey Sutherland invite listeners into a deep and practical discussion on what it means to understand, respond to, and support individuals and communities in crisis. Rather than limiting the concept of crisis to large-scale disasters or rare traumatic events, this episode explores the reality that crisis is far more common, personal, and persistent than many assume. With decades of combined experience in trauma care, mental health response, and humanitarian aid, the hosts emphasize the urgent need for crisis sensitive care—especially among lay responders and professionals alike. Through real-world stories and thoughtful definitions, they unpack what crisis and trauma truly mean, how they affect individuals and systems, and why well-intentioned help is not always enough. Learn more at www.crisiscareinternational.org
Episode Outline:
Welcome & Introduction
Introduction and purpose of this and future episodes of Crisis Care Conversation
What is a Crisis?
Defining crisis as a state of being overwhelmed
Differences between acute crises and long-term trauma
Community vs. individual crises
The Role of the Responder
Responders as potential secondary trauma victims
Importance of preparation, not just intention
Why Crisis Care Training Is Necessary
Gaps in foundational skills among helpers
Everyday need for crisis care principles, even outside of major events
Understanding Trauma
Defining trauma
Chronic vs. acute trauma experiences
The biological and emotional impacts of trauma
Trauma-Informed vs. Trauma-Sensitive Care
Why trauma-sensitivity goes beyond knowledge to embodied awareness
Emphasis on safety, choice, and understanding lived experiences
Real-World Example
Case story of a refugee mother and missed trauma signals
Importance of recognizing signs and offering choice in care
Closing Thoughts
Acknowledgement that everyone is still learning
Vision for empowering both professionals and community responders with practical, accessible tools