What is the first step in crisis intervention?

• A. Identify the problem
• B. List alternatives
• C. Choose from alternatives
• D. Implement the plan

Answer: (A)

Identifying the problem first anchors crisis intervention. When the person in crisis can express what is happening from their perspective, you establish a clear, immediate focus for the work ahead. This clarity guides every subsequent action, ensuring that you generate coping options, choose a plan, and implement it in a way that directly addresses the actual issue rather than guessing at the cause.

Starting with a precise problem statement also helps in safety planning and prioritizing needs. By understanding what the client identifies as the crisis, you can tailor the next steps to reduce distress quickly and realistically, set a tangible short-term goal, and determine what supports or resources are needed.

For example, if the crisis centers on a overwhelming fear of losing housing after an eviction notice, identifying the problem helps you target immediate needs (clarifying the housing threat, safety nets, and access to urgent resources) before you brainstorm solutions or take action. Once the problem is clear, you can move on to exploring alternatives, selecting the most feasible option, and implementing a concrete plan, followed by follow-up.