Advanced Crisis Counseling: Skills & Application

PREREQUISITE:  None

This course provides advanced knowledge and training in crisis intervention models and applied crisis counseling strategies, with a focus on emotive, cognitive, and behavioral implications on client functioning. Students will refine their skills in crisis assessment, rapid intervention, stabilization, and referral, while integrating cultural, ethical, and trauma-informed perspectives. Emphasis will be placed on applying advanced techniques to diverse crises such as suicide, intimate partner violence, mass trauma, natural disasters, and community-wide emergencies. Through case studies, discussion forums, and applied projects, students will gain expertise to respond effectively to high-intensity acute and chronic situations across clinical, school, and community settings.

UPON COMPLETION OF THE COURSE, THE STUDENT WILL BE COMPETENT IN:

• Evaluating current research in advanced crisis development and counseling, applying findings to modern interventions.
• Selecting, administering and interpreting crisis assessment, integrating assessment results into case conceptualization and intervention planning.
• Applying culturally responsive strategies that address issues of race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, ability, and other intersecting identities in crisis counseling.
• Identifying and addressing the intersections between psychological first aid and long-term personal/mental health concerns, applying holistic approaches to client care.
• Evaluating the effects of depression, chemical dependency, grief, and anxiety changes on postcrisis development and management, with attention to potential PTSD and counselor burnout.
• Applying the counseling-specific ethical standards in the use of assessments, interventions, and program planning.
• Developing complex case formulations that integrate theoretical perspectives, assessment data, client context, and research evidence.
• Designing and implementing advocacy initiatives or programs that promote equity, access, and positive systemic changes in client development.
• Analyzing and applying advanced crisis development approaches and models, integrating developmental and multicultural perspectives.
• Designing and implementing evidence-based crisis counseling interventions that address the complex needs of first responders to traumatic events.
• Evaluating the mental health and social impact of family and family systems on crisis management and counseling practices.
• Evaluating and applying proactive crisis planning, decision-making, and program development that influences school, community, and facility adjustment and change due to critical crisis events.
• Demonstrating advanced knowledge and skills consistent with the professional identity of a crisis counselor, including reflective practice and ongoing professional development.
• Demonstrating how artificial intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to research, analyze, and synthesize information in the Crisis Counseling field of practice.

ACQUIRED SKILLS:

• Assessment Analysis and Interpretation
• Evaluation and Planning Skills
• Application and Facilitation Skills