NCJ Number
93825
Journal
American Journal of Community Psychology Volume: 12 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1984) Pages: 241-251
Date Published
1984
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This paper draws upon an analysis of crisis intervention in community psychology to suggest areas that crisis training for psychologists should cover and who should be trained for what crisis intervention activities.
Abstract
Crisis intervention is considered a major bridge between community and clinical approaches and is an important ingredient in the centerpiece of community psychology -- primary prevention. However, considerable convergence exists in the practice of crisis intervention, and many community psychology training programs fail to cover the subject adequately. Crisis training must provide opportunities for individuals to develop an awareness of their own weaknesses and concerns, as well as to be both active and collaborative with clients. It must be competency-based training and present a clear conceptual framework of the history and theory of crisis intervention. The training must teach specific strategies for special situations, ways to develop and maintain services within a human services network, and basic helping skills. The training should focus on developing individualized helping styles that enhance certain personal characteristics and modify ones that may impede crisis counseling. Training must be active and participatory to help the student evolve and practice problemsolving strategies. A wide variety of individuals, including paraprofessionals, can be trained for crisis intervention. The paper outlines a format to teach skills and strategies, as well as a graduate course sequence. One table and 27 references are included.