Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

When working with a patient going through a crisis, which approach is considered most effective?

1. Giving them time to process feelings

2. Focusing on the sources of trauma

3. Engaging them with supportive feelings

4. Discussing coping mechanisms directly

The correct answer is: Engaging them with supportive feelings

In a crisis intervention context, engaging a patient with supportive feelings is highly effective because it helps establish a sense of safety and trust, which is critical when individuals are experiencing overwhelming emotions or distress. When a client is faced with a crisis, the immediate priority is to ensure they feel understood and supported. This supportive engagement fosters a collaborative environment where the individual feels more comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. When patients feel heard and supported, they are more likely to open up about their experiences, which can aid in processing their feelings and moving forward. This approach can mitigate feelings of isolation and anxiety, allowing the individual to better cope with the immediate crisis. While giving time to process feelings, focusing on sources of trauma, and discussing coping mechanisms are all important components of overall therapeutic practice, in the acute phase of a crisis, the emphasis on support can be particularly powerful. Addressing underlying trauma or delving into coping strategies might be less effective if the patient does not first feel a sense of safety and support from their counselor. Therefore, engaging them with supportive feelings serves as a foundational step in crisis intervention.