Crisis Intervention & Prevention Flashcards
7 cards from real SAC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Crisis Intervention & Prevention flashcards as text
According to ASCA and NASP guidelines, which professional is primarily responsible for coordinating the school's crisis response plan?
Answer: The school crisis team, often led by the school psychologist or counselor
NASP and ASCA guidelines designate the school crisis team—typically co-led by the school psychologist and/or school counselor—as the entity responsible for coordinating crisis response.
A SAC counselor learns that a student has been cutting themselves as a way to cope with emotional pain. The counselor should FIRST:
Answer: Assess the severity of the self-harm, suicidal ideation, and level of distress
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) must be distinguished from suicidal behavior through careful assessment before determining the appropriate level of intervention.
Which of the following is an example of a 'universal' level intervention in a three-tiered suicide prevention framework?
Answer: School-wide mental health awareness education for all students
Universal (Tier 1) interventions target all students in the school and include school-wide education campaigns and awareness programs, regardless of individual risk level.
During a crisis debriefing for school staff following a traumatic event, a SAC counselor should AVOID:
Answer: Forcing or requiring all staff to verbally process their trauma
Mandating verbal processing of traumatic experiences can be counterproductive and potentially harmful; staff should be encouraged but never coerced to participate in debriefing activities.
When notifying parents about a school crisis involving student safety, what is the MOST appropriate communication approach?
Answer: Send a factual, calm, and timely letter home while avoiding speculation
Timely, factual, and calm communication to parents reduces anxiety, counters rumors, and provides guidance on how to support their children, which is a best practice in school crisis communication.
The 'Reconnecting Youth' program is a school-based prevention program specifically designed to:
Answer: Help high-risk youth improve school bonding and reduce risk behaviors
Reconnecting Youth is an evidence-based program for high-risk youth in grades 9-12 that targets school bonding, personal growth, and reduces drug use, depression, and suicidal ideation.
A student is brought to a SAC counselor after being involved in a physical altercation. The student appears agitated and dysregulated. What is the BEST initial intervention?
Answer: Use active listening and a calm demeanor to help the student de-escalate before processing the event
De-escalation must occur before any productive conversation can happen; using a calm presence and active listening helps regulate the student's nervous system and builds trust.