
The Social Work Podcast 3: Crisis Intervention and Suicide Assessment for Social Workers: Part 1
Jan 29, 2007
Dive into the fascinating world of crisis intervention and suicide assessment. Explore historical insights from Eric Lindemann’s groundbreaking work on acute grief. Learn about the key principles of crisis, including the need for social support and adaptability. Discover two essential assessment models: the Triage Assessment Model and the Dilation-Constriction Continuum, which help gauge emotional and behavioral responses. Get ready for valuable guidance on navigating crises and enhancing intervention strategies!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Crisis As A Normal Human Response
- Jonathan Singer explains Lindemann reframed crisis as a normal, non-pathological human response after the Coconut Grove fire.
- This shifted practice toward brief, opportunity-focused interventions rather than deep psychodynamic exploration.
Client Chose Shelter Loss Over Assault
- Singer shares a client who did not view rape as the crisis; losing shelter was the crisis for her.
- This example shows why clinicians must ask clients what event they perceive as the precipitating crisis.
Confirm The Client Sees It As A Crisis
- Do assess whether the client perceives an event as a threat, loss, or danger because perception defines crisis.
- Do confirm coping strategies are overwhelmed and target intervention to restore functioning.

