Unit 5 Assignment 
The ABC Model of Crisis Intervention
HN220: Prevention and Crisis Intervention
Lanie Ahlman
The ABC model of crisis intervention is a method created by Gerald Caplan and Eric Lindemann in the 1940s. The ABC model is a problem solving approach and has been known to work best when applied within 4 to 6 weeks. It uses a three-stage approach to problem solving, A; build a rapport with the client, B; identify the client’s perceptions and cognitions of the precipitating event, and C; learning to manage and cope with the feelings in ways that will decrease the problem (Kanel, 2007).
In order to successfully carry out this portion of the three-stage model, a counselor must possess certain skills. “First attending behavior is very important when attempting to build good understanding with a client" (Mental health academy. 2015). Attending behavior includes good eye contact, attentive body language and vocal style. It is also important to know that the concept of good attending behavior could vary slightly in regard to cultural differences. In order to be a successful counselor when using the ABC model, it is also important to have knowledge of cultural sensitivity (Kanel, 2007). Another important skill a counselor must possess is the ability of how to appropriately ask questions. Most often in this model, it is important to use open-ended questions in order to understand the most information about the precipitating event. Questions beginning with “what” or “how” are most effective in this case. The counselors ability to restate what the clients answer to the questions are.
In the second stage, I will identify the problem’s the client presents by identifying the precipitating event, Recognize the meaning of the event, subjective distress and functioning level, understand the clients thoughts and feelings, make ethical check, substance abuse issues, and finally I will use therapeutic Interactions. In order to identify the
HN220: Prevention and Crisis Intervention
Lanie Ahlman
The ABC model of crisis intervention is a method created by Gerald Caplan and Eric Lindemann in the 1940s. The ABC model is a problem solving approach and has been known to work best when applied within 4 to 6 weeks. It uses a three-stage approach to problem solving, A; build a rapport with the client, B; identify the client’s perceptions and cognitions of the precipitating event, and C; learning to manage and cope with the feelings in ways that will decrease the problem (Kanel, 2007).
In order to successfully carry out this portion of the three-stage model, a counselor must possess certain skills. “First attending behavior is very important when attempting to build good understanding with a client" (Mental health academy. 2015). Attending behavior includes good eye contact, attentive body language and vocal style. It is also important to know that the concept of good attending behavior could vary slightly in regard to cultural differences. In order to be a successful counselor when using the ABC model, it is also important to have knowledge of cultural sensitivity (Kanel, 2007). Another important skill a counselor must possess is the ability of how to appropriately ask questions. Most often in this model, it is important to use open-ended questions in order to understand the most information about the precipitating event. Questions beginning with “what” or “how” are most effective in this case. The counselors ability to restate what the clients answer to the questions are.
In the second stage, I will identify the problem’s the client presents by identifying the precipitating event, Recognize the meaning of the event, subjective distress and functioning level, understand the clients thoughts and feelings, make ethical check, substance abuse issues, and finally I will use therapeutic Interactions. In order to identify the