ABSTRACT
Natural disasters are impossible to predict; they destroy property, cause injury and death, and traumatize survivors in families, neighborhoods, communities, towns, or even in an entire country. Man-made disruptions and accidents include airplane crashes, explosions, infrastructure failures such as collapsing bridges and towers, and nuclear incidents are considered forms of disaster. Because of the extreme losses experienced by survivors of natural and man-made disasters, counselors must use a theoretical framework that is based on empathy and unconditional regard. School counselors primarily are obligated to protect the interests of students; thus, in the aftermath of a disaster, the counselor will implement as many strategies and interventions as possible to assist students in their recovery. After a disaster, it is critical for school counselors to be knowledgeable on the community resources that can help families recover. Keeping an up-to-date list of support networks and other services will help counselors provide descriptions of services, phone numbers, and addresses to families.
