Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM): Frequently Asked Questions
The NATCA CISM team is a Union-operated, Agency-supported group designed to help air traffic controllers effectively manage stress they may experience following a critical incident.
These peer debriefers are trained in the Mitchell Model. You can find more information about the program developed by Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell at ICISF.org.
What Does CISM Do?
The NATCA CISM team provides confidential, non-judgmental, peer-to-peer support in the wake of stressful events to promote recovery following a critical incident.
Sometimes the CISM team provides one-on-one support via phone conversations; sometimes they may travel to a facility where more than one controller has been affected. They also provide support for other events such as the death of a coworker, or any event which affects your ability to do your job.
Who is CISM?
The CISM team is made up entirely of peers-debriefers. Right now, there are 15 controllers (peers) on the team.
The team is led by Committee Chair Sarah Grampp(Kansas City Center, ZKC), and Vice-Chair Matthew Ellington (Chicago O’Hare ATCT, ORD).
When Should I Use CISM?
If you have experienced a traumatic event or a critical incident, and it is affecting your ability to do your job., including:
including:
- Incident
- Accident
- Death of a co-worker or loved one
- Natural Disasters
You can call at any time, not just immediately after the incident. It is very common for people to experience emotional aftershocks or stress reactions a few days, weeks or months after a traumatic event.
How Do I Contact CISM?
Call the on-call peer debriefer at 202-505-CISM (2476). We are on call 24/7. You will reach our voicemail. Leave the following information (messages are kept strictly confidential):
- Name
- Facility
- Contact Number
- Brief description of the situation
*Please note: the coordinator is an active air traffic controller and may be on position when you call. Voicemail is checked frequently during breaks and off-duty hours. Your call will be returned promptly.
Learn more about the committee at www.natca.org/committees/cism/
