In crisis intervention, what is the first step in handling an acutely distressed client?

• A. Call emergency services
• B. Provide counseling and referral
• C. Establish safety and stabilization; use grounding techniques
• D. Assess for substance use

Answer: (C)

Immediate safety and stabilization are the top priority when a client is acutely distressed. In a crisis, overwhelming fear and arousal can cloud thinking and raise risk to self or others, so the first step is to secure safety, create a calm environment, and bring the person into the present moment with grounding techniques. Grounding helps reduce physiological arousal and restores some mental clarity, making it possible to assess needs, establish rapport, and plan next steps. After stabilization, you can move on to supportive counseling, safety planning, or referrals. If there is imminent danger that cannot be managed on-site, emergency services should be contacted, but that is addressed after establishing safety and stabilization.