Introduction To Emotional CPR (eCPR) by Kimberly Ewing, Director of Training and Engagement, National Empowerment Center

Emotional CPR (eCPR) is a dynamic public health education program that prepares you to support others through emotional crises using three transformative steps: Connecting, emPowering, and Revitalizing. Developed by leaders with firsthand experience in recovery, this approach integrates principles from trauma-informed care, suicide prevention, and emotional intelligence into a practice that anyone can use in any setting.

The Three Pillars of eCPR

  • Connecting: The Foundation of Safety

    • Deepen your listening skills and practice true presence.

    • Create a genuine sense of safety for those in distress.

    • Learn to “listen with the heart” to build an immediate emotional bond.

  • emPowering: Shifting Toward Hope

    • Help individuals transition from a state of hopelessness to active engagement in life.

    • Learn to build “power with” collaborative relationships rather than “power over” others.

    • Discover how to help others feel more passion and power during difficult times.

  • Revitalizing: Sustaining the Healing Process

    • Support people as they re-engage with loved ones and vital support systems.

    • Assist in establishing routines that promote health, wellness, and a sense of mastery.

    • Energize the healing journey by focusing on meaning, purpose, and dreams.

If you enjoyed this video checkout our realplay video next and see Emotional CPR in action.
Emotional CPR in Action: Realplay with Kimberly Ewing, Oryx Cohen and Shira Collings with the National Empowerment Center

In this realplay, we demonstrate how to support someone moving through a period of intense emotional distress or crisis using the eCPR (Emotional CPR) method. Unlike traditional crisis intervention, eCPR focuses on Connection, emPowering, and Revitalizing through a heart-to-heart human connection rather than a clinical “fix-it” approach.

The Three Phases of eCPR

Watch as we navigate the three core components of the process:

  • C – Connection: Creating a safe, non-judgmental space through “heart-to-heart” presence. You’ll see the supporter focus on being with the person, rather than doing something to them.
  • P – emPowering: Helping the person find their own internal strength. We shift the focus from “What is wrong with you?” to “What has happened?” and “How can we find your power again?”
  • R – Revitalizing: Assisting the person in identifying their next steps and reconnecting with their sense of purpose and community.

Why This Matters

Emotional CPR is a public health education program that helps people assist others through emotional crises. It is rooted in the belief that anyone can provide support by simply being present, authentic, and empathetic. This video is a great resource for peer supporters, family members, or anyone looking to build deeper emotional intelligence and supportive skills.