Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
crisis intervention
Immediate therapeutic response to manage acute psychiatric emergencies and prevent harm.
Full Definition
A time-limited, focused therapeutic approach designed to address acute psychological distress and restore a person's pre-crisis level of functioning. Crisis intervention typically involves rapid assessment of risk factors, immediate safety planning, mobilization of support systems, and short-term problem-solving strategies. The intervention aims to prevent psychiatric hospitalization when possible or facilitate appropriate level of care placement when necessary.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound adjective (crisis-intervention team).
In Context
- "The mobile crisis intervention team responded within 30 minutes of the emergency call." — emergency services report
- "Crisis intervention techniques focus on immediate stabilization rather than long-term therapy goals." — clinical training manual
Also known as
emergency response
acute intervention
crisis management
Contrasted with
long-term therapy
routine counseling
Don't confuse with
crisis prevention
emergency consultation