Post Critical Incident Seminar

Applications for the 2026 Post Critical Incident Seminars this fall are now open. Please see details below.

Upcoming 2026 PCIS Dates:

Retiree PCIS
    September 14-16, 2026 (Branson, MO):   Apply Here
PCIS #18
    October 5-7, 2026 (Branson, MO):   Apply Here

What is PCIS (Post Critical Incident Seminar)?

If you have experienced a critical incident, it may have affected you without you even noticing. The Missouri Post-Critical Incident Seminar (PCIS) is a 3-day intensively focused therapeutic seminar to assist first responder personnel suffering from traumatic stress following their involvement in a critical incident(s). Although PCIS is not intended to serve as an initial debriefing following a critical incident, it will provide first responders with valuable training that addresses how trauma affects the human psyche and changes your world view. You will meet other first responder personnel who have responded to critical incidents and learn about stress symptoms and develop coping skills.

Attending a Post Critical Incident Seminar (PCIS) requires a waiting period of at least 6 months for several important reasons. Firstly, this time allows individuals to process their emotions and experiences following a critical incident, which is crucial for natural emotional healing. Secondly, it ensures that participants reach a certain level of emotional and psychological stability, making them better prepared to engage with the seminar's activities and discussions. It also provides time for individuals to establish or strengthen their support systems, such as counseling, peer support, or family support, which are vital for recovery.

What is a Critical Incident?

  • Officer-involved shootings
  • Pursuits involving serious injuries or death
  • Child fatalities
  • Multiple casualty events (air, land, or marine)
  • Natural disaster response
  • Any event posing a threat of serious injury or death to the officer
  • Witnessing a fatality occur
  • Suicide response
  • Incidents of public and/or media scrutiny
  • Line of duty deaths
  • Unsuccessful rescue attempts
  • Or any other duty-related traumatic event

When first responders are exposed to traumatic incidents, they may experience intrusive memories, nightmares, relationship difficulties, or alcohol and/or substance abuse. Some struggle in their relationships to the point of domestic violence or divorce; others may isolate themselves or avoid specific situations or places. How you deal with a critical incident will influence how you will handle future stressful events.

If any of this sounds familiar, you and your spouse/significant other should consider attending this three-day seminar. (There will be opportunities for spouses/significant others to network and discuss living in a law enforcement culture.)