Crisis Intervention Flashcards

A client angrily says, "If he takes the kids, I'll make sure he never sees daylight again." What is the best coaching response?

Answer: Calmly explore the statement's intent and assess risk of harm to others

Possible threats to others call for calm, direct risk assessment instead of dismissing them or overreacting.

Which de-escalation behavior is most effective with a highly agitated client?

Answer: Speaking slowly and calmly, and validating their feelings

A calm tone plus validation lowers emotional intensity, while arguing or commanding tends to escalate it.

A client threatens to take the children out of state before the custody hearing. What should the coach do?

Answer: Explain the serious legal consequences and urge the client to consult their attorney right away

Removing children against court orders or jurisdiction rules can be parental kidnapping, so legal counsel is essential.

A client in crisis has been drinking heavily every night since the separation. What is the most appropriate coaching step?

Answer: Name the concern without judgment and refer to substance use resources

Coaches can raise concerns and refer, for example to SAMHSA's helpline, but should not diagnose.

In the ABC model of crisis intervention, what does the "C" stand for?

Answer: Coping

The ABC model covers Achieving contact, Boiling down the problem, and Coping.

What is the main purpose of active listening in the first minutes of a crisis contact?

Answer: To build trust and help the client feel heard so they can stabilize

Feeling heard reduces distress and builds the rapport needed for intervention.

A client asks the coach to keep a disclosure of child abuse confidential. How should the coach respond?

Answer: Explain the limits of confidentiality and follow reporting obligations and safety protocols

Child safety overrides confidentiality, and coaches must explain those limits and follow applicable laws and ethics.