Elements of Crisis Counseling

We often think of a crisis as a sudden unexpected catastrophe, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or other cataclysmic event. In mental health terms, a crisis refers not necessarily to a traumatic situation or event, but to a person's reaction to this event. A crisis can result from a sudden upheaval, such as unemployment, divorce or the death of a loved one and reactions to these events can vary widely from person to person.

Reactions to a crisis can vary widely, with some showing few ill effects while others experiences symptoms including anger, flashbacks and social withdrawal. Research has shown that crisis counseling can be extremely beneficial to those experiencing a crisis event, but according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), these individuals "...do not see themselves as needing mental health services and are unlikely to request them."

Learn More About Crisis Counseling:

• What Is a Crisis?
• Common Reactions to a Crisis
• Elements of Crisis Counseling