Nazia Adil is a board certified Psychiatrist. She completed her residency at Michigan State University, East Lansing.
A crisis refers not just to a traumatic event or experience, but to an individual’s response to the situation.Crisis counseling is an intervention that can help individuals deal with the crisis by offering assistance and support.It is important to note that Crisis intervention is focused on minimizing the stress of the event, providing emotional support and improving the individual’s coping strategies in the here and now.Like psychotherapy, crisis counseling involves assessment, planning, and treatment, but the scope of is generally much more specific. Crisis assessment and treatment focuses on the client’s immediate situation including factors such as safety and immediate needs.While there are a number of different treatment models, there are a number of common elements consistent with the various theories of crisis counseling.
Assessing the Situation
The first part of crisis counseling involves assessing the client’s current situation. This involves listening to the client, asking questions and determining what the individual needs to cope effectively with the crisis.During this time, the crisis counseling provider defines the problem.
People who are experiencing a crisis need information about their current condition and the steps they can take to minimize the damage. During crisis counseling, mental health workers often help the client understand that their reactions are normal but temporary.
One of the most important elements of crisis counseling involves providing support, stabilization, and resources. Active listening is critical, as well as offering unconditional acceptance and reassurance. Offering this kind of nonjudgmental support during a crisis can help reduce stress improve coping.
Developing Coping Skills
In addition to providing support, crisis counselors also help clients develop coping skills to deal with the immediate crisis. This might involve helping the client explore different solutions to the problem, practicing stress reduction techniques and encouraging positive thinking.