Crisis Intervention Foundations
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Critical Incident Stress Management (United Kingdom) course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Abrasions refer to wounds or injuries that occur when the skin is scraped or rub… #
Abrasions refer to wounds or injuries that occur when the skin is scraped or rubbed against a rough surface, often resulting in minor bleeding and pain, and are commonly seen in victims of physical assaults or accidents.
Acute Stress Disorder is a condition that develops after a person experiences a… #
Acute Stress Disorder is a condition that develops after a person experiences a traumatic event, such as a car accident or a violent attack, and is characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, which can last for several days or weeks.
Adrenaline is a hormone that is released by the body in response to stress</i… #
Adrenaline is a hormone that is released by the body in response to stress or danger, and is often referred to as the "fight or flight" hormone, as it prepares the body to either confront the threat or flee from it, by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels.
Advocacy refers to the act of supporting or promoting the interests of a particu… #
Advocacy refers to the act of supporting or promoting the interests of a particular group or individual, such as victims of crime or trauma, and can involve providing emotional support, practical assistance, or representing their interests in legal or other proceedings.
Ambivalence refers to a state of having mixed or conflicting feelings about a pa… #
Ambivalence refers to a state of having mixed or conflicting feelings about a particular situation or issue, such as feeling both guilty and angry about a traumatic event, and can make it difficult for individuals to process their emotions or make decisions.
Anxiety is a common psychological response to stress or uncertainty, and… #
Anxiety is a common psychological response to stress or uncertainty, and can manifest as feelings of worry, fear, or apprehension, which can interfere with a person's daily life and relationships.
Assessment is the process of evaluating an individual's or group's needs, risks,… #
Assessment is the process of evaluating an individual's or group's needs, risks, or circumstances, such as in the context of crisis intervention or trauma response, and can involve using various tools or frameworks to gather information and inform decision-making.
Avoidance is a common coping mechanism used by individuals who have experienced… #
Avoidance is a common coping mechanism used by individuals who have experienced trauma or stress, and involves avoiding people, places, or activities that remind them of the traumatic event or trigger distressing emotions.
Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing malada… #
Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing maladaptive behaviors or thought patterns, such as those associated with anxiety or depression, and can involve techniques such as cognitive restructuring or exposure therapy.
Bereavement is the state of being in a state of grief or mourning, such a… #
Bereavement is the state of being in a state of grief or mourning, such as after the loss of a loved one, and can involve a range of emotional, social, and practical challenges.
Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused b… #
Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, overwork, or pressure, and can result in reduced productivity, motivation, and overall well-being.
Case Management is a process of coordinating and delivering services to individu… #
Case Management is a process of coordinating and delivering services to individuals or groups, such as victims of crime or trauma, and can involve assessing needs, developing plans, and monitoring progress.
Catastrophic Thinking is a type of cognitive distortion that involves exp… #
Catastrophic Thinking is a type of cognitive distortion that involves expecting the worst possible outcome in a given situation, and can contribute to anxiety or depression in individuals who experience traumatic events.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing… #
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing maladaptive thought patterns or behaviors, such as those associated with anxiety or depression, and can involve techniques such as cognitive restructuring or exposure therapy.
Community #
Based Initiatives are programs or services that are developed and delivered at the community level, such as support groups or outreach services, and can aim to promote health, well-being, or social justice.
Compassion Fatigue is a condition that can affect individuals who work in hel… #
Compassion Fatigue is a condition that can affect individuals who work in helping professions, such as nurses or counselors, and involves experiencing emotional exhaustion or reduced empathy due to repeated exposure to traumatic or stressful situations.
Confidentiality is the principle of maintaining the privacy and security… #
Confidentiality is the principle of maintaining the privacy and security of personal information, such as in the context of counseling or therapy, and is essential for building trust and ensuring that individuals feel safe to disclose sensitive information.
Coping Mechanisms are strategies or techniques used by individuals to manage … #
Coping Mechanisms are strategies or techniques used by individuals to manage stress, anxiety, or other forms of emotional distress, such as exercise, meditation, or journaling.
Counseling is a type of talk therapy that involves working with a trained… #
Counseling is a type of talk therapy that involves working with a trained professional to address emotional, psychological, or relational issues, such as grief, trauma, or relationship problems.
Countertransference is a phenomenon that can occur in therapy or couns… #
Countertransference is a phenomenon that can occur in therapy or counseling relationships, where the therapist or counselor unconsciously transfers their own feelings or attitudes onto the client, and can impact the therapeutic process.
Crisis Intervention is a type of emergency response that involves providing imme… #
Crisis Intervention is a type of emergency response that involves providing immediate support and stabilization to individuals or groups in crisis, such as those experiencing trauma, violence, or disaster.
Cultural Competence refers to the ability to understand and work effectively wit… #
Cultural Competence refers to the ability to understand and work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, and involves being sensitive to language, customs, and values that may impact the therapeutic process.
Debriefing is a process of reviewing and discussing a critical incident or tr… #
Debriefing is a process of reviewing and discussing a critical incident or traumatic event, such as a disaster or accident, and can help individuals process their emotions and reduce the risk of long-term psychological harm.
Defusing is a type of early intervention that involves providing emotiona… #
Defusing is a type of early intervention that involves providing emotional support and stabilization to individuals who have experienced a traumatic event, and can help reduce the risk of long-term psychological harm.
Denial is a common coping mechanism used by individuals who have experienced … #
Denial is a common coping mechanism used by individuals who have experienced trauma or stress, and involves refusing to acknowledge or accept the reality of the situation, which can make it difficult to process emotions or seek help.
Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feeli… #
Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in activities, and can be triggered by traumatic events, loss, or significant life changes.
Dissociation is a psychological defense mechanism that involves disconnecting fr… #
Dissociation is a psychological defense mechanism that involves disconnecting from one's thoughts, feelings, or experiences, and can be used as a coping strategy by individuals who have experienced trauma or stress.
Early Intervention is a type of prevention or treatment that involves providing… #
Early Intervention is a type of prevention or treatment that involves providing support or services to individuals or groups as soon as possible after a traumatic event, and can help reduce the risk of long-term psychological harm.
Emotional Regulation is the ability to manage and modulate one's emotional respo… #
Emotional Regulation is the ability to manage and modulate one's emotional responses to stress or challenging situations, and involves developing self-awareness, self-regulation, and coping skills.
Emergency Response is a type of immediate action taken in response to a crisi… #
Emergency Response is a type of immediate action taken in response to a crisis or emergency, such as a natural disaster or medical emergency, and involves providing critical support and services to affected individuals or groups.
Exposure Therapy is a type of behavioral therapy that involves gradually… #
Exposure Therapy is a type of behavioral therapy that involves gradually exposing individuals to situations or stimuli that trigger anxiety or fear, and can help reduce avoidance behaviors and improve coping skills.
Flashbacks are a type of memory disturbance that involves suddenly and vi… #
Flashbacks are a type of memory disturbance that involves suddenly and vividly recalling a traumatic event, often with intense emotional or sensory distress, and can be a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Grief is a natural emotional response to loss or bereavement, and can inv… #
Grief is a natural emotional response to loss or bereavement, and can involve a range of feelings, such as sadness, anger, or guilt, which can be intense and overwhelming.
Group Therapy is a type of therapy that involves working with a group of… #
Group Therapy is a type of therapy that involves working with a group of individuals who share similar experiences or challenges, such as trauma or addiction, and can provide a sense of community, support, and connection.
Hypervigilance is a state of increased arousal or alertness, often charac… #
Hypervigilance is a state of increased arousal or alertness, often characterized by an exaggerated startle response or an intense sense of anxiety or fear, and can be a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Incident Command System is a type of management structure used in emergen… #
Incident Command System is a type of management structure used in emergency response situations, such as disasters or crises, and involves coordinating and directing resources, personnel, and activities to respond to the incident.
Informed Consent is the principle of ensuring that individuals understand the na… #
Informed Consent is the principle of ensuring that individuals understand the nature, risks, and benefits of a particular treatment or intervention, such as therapy or medication, and can make informed decisions about their care.
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or stayi… #
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep, and can be triggered by stress, anxiety, or trauma, which can impact overall health and well-being.
Intervention is a type of action or support provided to individual… #
Intervention is a type of action or support provided to individuals or groups, such as those experiencing crisis or trauma, and can involve a range of strategies, such as counseling, advocacy, or practical assistance.
Intrinsic Motivation is the drive or motivation to engage in a particular activi… #
Intrinsic Motivation is the drive or motivation to engage in a particular activity or behavior, such as self-care or personal growth, and is often based on internal factors, such as values or interests.
Journaling is a type of writing therapy that involves recording thoughts,… #
Journaling is a type of writing therapy that involves recording thoughts, feelings, or experiences, and can help individuals process their emotions, gain insight, and develop self-awareness.
Loss is a natural part of life, and can involve the death of a loved one, the en… #
Loss is a natural part of life, and can involve the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a significant aspect of one's life, such as a job or home, and can trigger a range of emotional responses, including grief and sadness.
Mental Health is a state of emotional, psychological, and social well #
being, and involves the ability to cope with stress, anxiety, or other forms of emotional distress, and to maintain healthy relationships and daily functioning.
Mindfulness is a type of meditation or awareness practice that inv… #
Mindfulness is a type of meditation or awareness practice that involves paying attention to the present moment, without judgment or distraction, and can help reduce stress, anxiety, or other forms of emotional distress.
Motivational Interviewing is a type of counseling approach that involves… #
Motivational Interviewing is a type of counseling approach that involves helping individuals resolve ambivalence or uncertainty about behavior change, such as addiction or health habits, and can involve exploring values, goals, and motivations.
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganize or adapt in response… #
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganize or adapt in response to new experiences, learning, or environments, and can be influenced by factors such as stress, trauma, or neurodevelopmental disorders.
Nonverbal Communication is a type of communication that involves conveying messa… #
Nonverbal Communication is a type of communication that involves conveying messages or emotions through body language, facial expressions, or tone of voice, and can be an important aspect of therapeutic relationships or crisis intervention.
Normalization is a process of helping individuals understand that their thoughts… #
Normalization is a process of helping individuals understand that their thoughts, feelings, or experiences are normal or common, and can involve providing education, support, or reassurance, particularly in the context of trauma or crisis.
Peer Support is a type of support or guidance provided by individu… #
Peer Support is a type of support or guidance provided by individuals who have experienced similar challenges or circumstances, such as trauma or addiction, and can offer a sense of connection, understanding, and validation.
Phases of Crisis Intervention refer to the different stages or components of cri… #
Phases of Crisis Intervention refer to the different stages or components of crisis intervention, such as assessment, stabilization, and reintegration, and can involve a range of strategies, such as counseling, advocacy, or practical assistance.
Post #
Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences a traumatic event, such as a disaster or abuse, and can involve symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, or severe anxiety.
Psychological First Aid is a type of early intervention that involves pro… #
Psychological First Aid is a type of early intervention that involves providing emotional support and stabilization to individuals who have experienced a traumatic event, and can help reduce the risk of long-term psychological harm.
Psychological Trauma is a type of emotional or psychological distress that can r… #
Psychological Trauma is a type of emotional or psychological distress that can result from experiencing a traumatic event, such as abuse, neglect, or disaster, and can involve a range of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Recovery is the process of regaining physical, emotional, or psychological he… #
Recovery is the process of regaining physical, emotional, or psychological health and well-being after experiencing a traumatic event or illness, and can involve a range of strategies, such as therapy, self-care, or support groups.
Referral is the process of directing individuals to resources, services, or p… #
Referral is the process of directing individuals to resources, services, or professionals that can provide support or assistance, such as counseling or therapy, and can be an important aspect of crisis intervention or case management.
Relaxation Techniques are methods or strategies used to reduce stress , <b… #
Relaxation Techniques are methods or strategies used to reduce stress, anxiety, or other forms of emotional distress, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation.
Resilience is the ability to cope with or adapt to adversity , stress</… #
Resilience is the ability to cope with or adapt to adversity, stress, or trauma, and involves developing self-awareness, self-regulation, and coping skills, which can help individuals recover and thrive in the face of challenges.
Risk Assessment is the process of evaluating an individual's or group's risk of… #
Risk Assessment is the process of evaluating an individual's or group's risk of experiencing harm or trauma, such as in the context of suicidal thoughts or abuse, and can involve identifying warning signs, developing safety plans, and providing support or intervention.
Safety Planning is the process of developing strategies or plans to reduce the r… #
Safety Planning is the process of developing strategies or plans to reduce the risk of harm or trauma, such as in the context of domestic violence or suicidal thoughts, and can involve identifying resources, developing coping skills, and creating a support network.
Self #
Care is the practice of taking care of one's physical, emotional, or psychological health and well-being, and can involve a range of activities, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
Self #
Esteem is a person's overall evaluation or confidence in their own worth, abilities, or accomplishments, and can be influenced by factors such as trauma, abuse, or socioeconomic status.
Social Support is the perception or experience of being supported, cared for, or… #
Social Support is the perception or experience of being supported, cared for, or connected to others, such as family, friends, or community members, and can play a critical role in reducing stress, anxiety, or other forms of emotional distress.
Stabilization is the process of helping individuals or groups regain emotional o… #
Stabilization is the process of helping individuals or groups regain emotional or psychological balance after experiencing a traumatic event or crisis, and can involve providing support, counseling, or practical assistance.
Stress Management is the process of developing strategies or techniques to reduc… #
Stress Management is the process of developing strategies or techniques to reduce or manage stress, anxiety, or other forms of emotional distress, such as relaxation techniques, exercise, or time management.
Substance Abuse is the misuse or overuse of substances such as alcohol… #
Substance Abuse is the misuse or overuse of substances such as alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, and can lead to physical, emotional, or psychological harm, as well as addiction or dependence.
Suicidal Ideation is the experience of having thoughts or feelings about ending… #
Suicidal Ideation is the experience of having thoughts or feelings about ending one's own life, and can be a symptom of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions, and requires immediate attention and support.
Survivor Guilt is a common emotional response experienced by individuals who hav… #
Survivor Guilt is a common emotional response experienced by individuals who have survived a traumatic event, such as a disaster or abuse, and involves feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame for having survived while others did not.
Symptom Management is the process of reducing or managing symptoms of a mental h… #
Symptom Management is the process of reducing or managing symptoms of a mental health condition, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and can involve a range of strategies, such as medication, therapy, or self-care.
Therapeutic Alliance refers to the working relationship between a therapist and… #
Therapeutic Alliance refers to the working relationship between a therapist and client, and involves establishing trust, rapport, and a sense of connection, which can facilitate the therapeutic process and promote positive outcomes.
Therapeutic Relationship is the connection or bond between a therapist and clien… #
Therapeutic Relationship is the connection or bond between a therapist and client, and involves establishing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, which can facilitate the therapeutic process and promote positive outcomes.
Trauma #
Informed Care is an approach to care or service delivery that takes into account the experiences and needs of individuals who have experienced trauma, and involves providing sensitive, supportive, and non-judgmental care.
Trauma Recovery is the process of regaining physical, emotional, or psychologica… #
Trauma Recovery is the process of regaining physical, emotional, or psychological health and well-being after experiencing a traumatic event, and can involve a range of strategies, such as therapy, self-care, or support groups.
Trust is a critical component of therapeutic relationships, and involves… #
Trust is a critical component of therapeutic relationships, and involves establishing a sense of safety, security, and confidence in the therapist or care provider, which can facilitate the therapeutic process and promote positive outcomes.
Vicarious Trauma is a type of trauma that can affect individuals who work… #
Vicarious Trauma is a type of trauma that can affect individuals who work with or support those who have experienced trauma, such as counselors, nurses, or emergency responders, and can involve experiencing emotional exhaustion or reduced empathy.
Violence is a type of behavior that involves using physical force or aggressi… #
Violence is a type of behavior that involves using physical force or aggression to harm or intimidate others, and can be a symptom of trauma, abuse, or other mental health conditions, and requires immediate attention and support.
Vulnerability is a state of being at risk or susceptible to harm or ex… #
Vulnerability is a state of being at risk or susceptible to harm or exploitation, and can be influenced by factors such as trauma, abuse, or socioeconomic status, and requires sensitive and supportive care.
Wellness is a state of overall health and well #
being, and involves maintaining physical, emotional, or psychological balance and resilience, and can be promoted through a range of activities, such as self-care, exercise, or social connection.
Witness Support is a type of support or guidance provided to indiv… #
Witness Support is a type of support or guidance provided to individuals who have witnessed a traumatic event, such as a crime or accident, and can involve providing emotional support, practical assistance, or advocacy.