When a group member is in crisis during a session, a group counselor should first:

• A. Assess safety.
• B. Provide a pep talk.
• C. Delay action until after the session.
• D. Refer the member immediately without crisis protocols.

Answer: (A)

Assessing safety first is essential in a crisis because the immediate priority is to protect life and prevent harm. The counselor must determine whether there is imminent risk of self-harm, harm to others, or a medical emergency, and identify factors such as intent, plan, access to means, and the level of distress. Based on that assessment, the counselor can implement crisis protocols, which may include stabilizing the member, removing dangerous objects, arranging for urgent support, contacting a supervisor, or calling emergency services if needed. In a group setting, this step also guides decisions about temporarily separating the member from the group, providing grounding techniques, and maintaining as much of the group’s safety and structure as possible while the crisis is being addressed. A pep talk does not address the real safety concerns and can minimize the person’s experience; delaying action until after the session risks escalating danger; referring the member immediately without crisis protocol fails to provide necessary immediate stabilization and risk management.