CRISIS COUNSELING

PHASES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CRISIS

1. The problem that causes tension and mobilizes to problem solving responses.
2. Failure of this responses to re-establish equilibrium or balance.
3. Tension keeps growing and mobilizes other crisis-meeting resources, (passes the threshold)
4. If problem is not solved another threshold is passed and person reaches the breaking point where major personality disorganization (psychological, psychosomatic, interpersonal or spiritual illness) occurs.

DEVELOPMENTAL AND ACCIDENTAL CRISIS

1. Developmental crisis is part of human growing. People go through different stages, the tendency is to stay in the stage, rather to move forward. This tension creates crisis.
2. Accidental crisis is precipitated by unexpected losses. These are emotionally hazardous situations.

INFORMAL CRISIS COUNSELING

1. Maintain a confidential, up-to-date suspects...People who may be prompt to crisis for something that is happening in their lives.
2. Sensitivity to subtle signs of distress. Who is in pain?
   Look for distress signals
3. Judicious use of "openers"
   How are things going with you in this difficult situation?
   What you're saying feels very heavy?
   You seem to be feeling very discouraged (upset, angry, remorseful)
   I get the feeling you have a burden on your mind.
   
4. Listening and responding to feelings

COUNSELING PROCESS, SHORT-TERM (FORMAL OR INFORMAL)

1. Listen intensively and reflect feelings with caring. (YOU responses)
2. Use questions carefully to focus on conflict areas rapidly.
3. Help person review the total problem.
4. Provide useful information.
5. Focus on the person's major conflicts, problems, and decisions with the aim of clarifying the viable alternatives.
6. Help the person decide on the next step and take it.
7. Provide practical guidance when it is needed.
8. Give the person emotional support and inspiration.
9. Move to long-term counseling if brief does not prove adequate.

NONCONSTRUCTIVE RESPONSES TO CRISIS

1. Denial that the problem exist.
2. Evasion of the problem (alcohol, drugs, )
3. Refusal to seek or accept help
4. Inability to express and master negative feelings.
5. Failure to explore the nature of the crisis and alternative solutions.
6. Projection onto others of major responsibility for causing and/or curing the crisis.
7. Turning away from friends, family, and other potentially helpful people.