Responding to Individuals in Mental Health Crisis with Compassion and Clarity

Presenters: Claire Fultz, DSW, MSW, MSc, LCSW-C, CCM & Stacey Meadows, MSW, LCSW-C

Description: This workshop provides a framework for effectively and empathetically responding to individuals at risk for or experiencing a mental health crisis. It provides an overview of the crisis cycle and outlines evidence-based strategies for intervention at each stage, including de-escalation techniques, suicide risk assessment, and safety planning. The session also explores the role of implicit bias in crisis decision-making. Emphasis is on trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and respectful approaches that promote safety, dignity, and collaboration when interacting with individuals in distress.

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the crisis cycle and identify common crisis behaviors.

2. Define key crisis response actions including de-escalation, suicide assessment, and safety planning.

3. Recognize the influence of implicit bias on crisis response decisions.

4. Apply trauma-informed and respectful approaches when engaging individuals in crisis.

2.0/Category 1 CE's

This program meets the Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice content requirement.