In order to be able to help the client to the best of the counselor’s abilities, the ABC Model of Crisis Intervention provides a useful guideline to learn about crisis intervention. In our textbook, Kanel states that “The three aspects of a crisis are (1) A precipitating event occurs; (2) the perception of this event leads to subjective distress; and (3) usual coping methods fail, leading the person experiencing the event to function psychologically, emotionally, or behaviorally at a lower level than before the precipitating event occurred.” In order to successfully help a client cope with a crisis, these three components must be recognized so that the counselor can help the client identify and overcome the crisis. The perception of the event is by far the most crucial to identify, as this is the one that can help the counselor select the best treatment for the client.
In order to be a successful crisis intervention counselor, the most important skills needed are listening to the client with a compassionate and empathetic ear. According to our textbook, the most basic skill of helping is listening. “Good eye contact, attentive body language, expressive vocal style, and verbal following are valuable listening tools.” (Kanel, K. 2007). This implies that by listening to your client
References: Kanel, Kristi (2007). A Guide to Crisis Intervention. Belmont, CA; Cengage Learning.