CIC Intervention Techniques & De-escalation Strategies 3

Question 1

During a telephone crisis intervention, a caller suddenly goes silent. The BEST counselor action is to:

Accepted Answer

Gently say the caller's name and ask if they are still there

Answer

Gently using the caller's name and checking in maintains connection without pressure, as silence may indicate the person is processing emotions.

Question 2

The 'columbo technique' in crisis negotiation involves the counselor:

Accepted Answer

Feigning confusion or ignorance to encourage the person to explain their perspective

Answer

The Columbo technique uses apparent confusion to prompt the person in crisis to elaborate, increasing rapport and revealing critical information.

Question 3

A client in crisis escalates when a counselor says 'I understand how you feel.' What is the MAIN reason this phrase can be counterproductive?

Accepted Answer

It may feel dismissive or presumptuous if the counselor has not had similar experiences

Answer

Claiming to fully understand another's feelings can feel invalidating if untrue; 'It sounds like you're feeling...' is more honest and empathic.

Question 4

Which environmental modification is MOST important when conducting an in-person crisis intervention?

Accepted Answer

Removing potential weapons and ensuring clear exit paths for both parties

Answer

Removing potential weapons and maintaining safe exit paths protects both the counselor and the client during unpredictable crisis interactions.

Question 5

In Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-informed crisis intervention, which skill is MOST directly used to reduce emotional intensity in the moment?

Accepted Answer

TIPP (Temperature, Intense exercise, Paced breathing, Paired muscle relaxation)

Answer

TIPP targets the body's physiology directly, rapidly lowering emotional arousal through biologically-based interventions.

(CIC) Crisis Intervention Counselor Practice Test