Online Support After a Critical Incident
After a frightening incident, practical help, rest and contact with someone you trust may matter more than talking through what happened. You can seek support at your own pace.
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After an incident
A worker who witnessed an accident may want help getting home safely, sleeping or deciding what to tell colleagues. A supportive conversation can focus on those immediate needs. You can decline to describe the event in detail.
What sessions might explore
Depending on your situation, sessions may explore immediate coping, practical support, safety and a gradual return to routine. You do not have to retell the incident to receive help. NICE advises against psychologically focused debriefing to prevent or treat PTSD.
Choosing support
Ask whether attendance is voluntary, who receives information and how the practitioner would refer you for trauma-focused care. For immediate danger call 999; employers should also arrange appropriate safeguarding and occupational support.
Related support
You can also explore trauma and PTSD. For further information, see NICE guidance on trauma and psychological debriefing.
Clinically reviewed by Daniel Rosenberg, Senior Counsellor, ACCPH Member, General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR) Registrant on 5 November 2026.
Find therapists who list critical incident support as an area of support
Anna Rexha
Integrative Counsellor (MNCPS Accred)
Dr Bianca Finger-Berry
Psychotherapeutic counsellor and EMDR therapist
Mariam Naeem Javed
CBT, ACT and CFT
Martina Cahill
Accredited Psychotherapist
Mr Stephen Martin
Adult Therapist
Ms. Sue Fearnley
Accredited Counsellor
How Veyro works
- 1
Browse
Filter by what you need help with, price, gender, language and more.
- 2
Book
Pick a time that suits you and pay securely. No account needed.
- 3
Talk
Meet your therapist online from wherever you feel comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
What support can I ask for after an incident?
It depends on your goals. Sessions may explore immediate coping, practical support, safety and a gradual return to routine; a practitioner should explain their approach and agree priorities with you.
When might support after an incident be helpful?
After an incident, seek help when you want practical or emotional support. Severe distress or worsening symptoms warrant professional advice without waiting.
Can I speak to someone online after an incident?
If you are safe and have privacy, an online conversation can focus on practical needs or distress. Immediate danger or injuries need emergency help first.
Must I attend a debrief or recount the incident?
No. NICE advises against psychologically focused debriefing to prevent or treat PTSD. A practical safety review at work has a different purpose. If distress is severe, worsening or persists, ask your GP about trauma-focused assessment.
How do I choose a therapist for critical incident support?
Ask whether attendance is voluntary, who receives information and how the practitioner would refer you for trauma-focused care.
What if counselling is not enough?
For immediate danger call 999; employers should also arrange appropriate safeguarding and occupational support. You can ask a therapist about referrals and support that may be more appropriate.
What should I do if I need urgent help?
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. For urgent mental-health help in England, call NHS 111 and select the mental-health option. Elsewhere in the UK, contact your local NHS urgent mental-health service or GP out-of-hours service. Veyro cannot provide emergency care.