Crisis Intervention Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is a crisis?
A situation where an individual experiences an overwhelming event that upsets one’s psychological equilibrium or baseline level of functioning.
A crisis is self-defined by one’s own perception of the event or situation and can last from 2 days to 6 weeks.
What are the usual methods of coping during a crisis?
They are not effective in a crisis.
Individuals may find that their normal problem-solving methods do not work during a crisis.
What is a maturational crisis?
A crisis precipitated by normal stress during the course of life, such as marriage, birth of a child, or retirement.
These crises occur at predictable times in a person’s life.
What is a situational crisis?
A crisis precipitated by a sudden traumatic event that is unexpected, such as death of a loved one, loss of a job, or illness.
Situational crises can occur at any time and are often unpredictable.
What factors influence reactions to a crisis?
- Nature of the event and extent of exposure
- Perception of the event
- Social supports and coping mechanisms
These factors can significantly impact how an individual experiences and responds to a crisis.
What is crisis intervention?
A brief treatment initiated when an individual is in a crisis to help restore one’s pre-crisis biopsychosocial functioning.
It typically involves supportive, focused psychotherapy over 1-6 sessions.
What are the key steps in establishing a therapeutic relationship during crisis intervention?
- Listen
- Identify precipitating problems
- Explore the client’s emotions
These steps are crucial in building rapport and understanding the client’s needs.
What is assessed during a crisis assessment?
- Severity of the crisis
- Safety risks and suicidal/homicidal ideation
- Coping mechanisms being used
- Meaning of the precipitating event to the client
- Client’s perception of reality
- Client’s social supports and willingness to use supports
The focus is on the immediate problem and not the client’s history.
What is the main goal of a treatment plan in crisis intervention?
To help the client understand their reaction to a crisis as normal and temporary.
This involves using appropriate approaches to action planning and modifying past coping skills.
What are the three basic approaches to take during crisis intervention?
- Non-directive: let the client tell you why they have come to you
- Collaborative: work together on a joint plan
- Directive: if the person does not or will not make a plan
Each approach is used based on the client’s needs and willingness to engage.
What should be reviewed during the termination phase of crisis intervention?
- Progress
- Resources and support system
- Schedule a follow-up session
This helps ensure continuity of care and support after the crisis.
What are the goals of crisis intervention?
- Restore a client’s equilibrium or baseline functioning
- Assist the client in developing new coping mechanisms
- Assist the client in developing problem-solving skills
- Assist client in mobilizing social supports and services
These goals are aimed at helping the client navigate their current crisis and prepare for future challenges.
