Practice before the moment
Care Scenarios
Read the situation, think about your response, then reveal a trauma-informed approach — including the words to avoid and when to refer.
Start where you are
Who are you caring for right now?
Choose the situation closest to yours and jump straight to the guidance for it.
A grieving church memberSomeone showing signs of depressionA person expressing hopelessnessA leader experiencing burnoutA member disclosing traumaA couple experiencing severe conflictA person experiencing domestic violenceA volunteer who is over-functioningA person asking a pastor to become their therapistA family in crisisA person who may need emergency support
If someone may be in immediate danger
If someone is threatening suicide, is experiencing abuse, or cannot safely care for themselves, contact emergency services or an appropriate crisis resource immediately.
Beyond the Altar™ provides educational ministry-care training. It does not provide therapy, diagnosis, crisis intervention, or medical advice. When someone may be in immediate danger or needs clinical support, contact emergency services, 988, or an appropriately licensed professional.