What should a school counselor prioritize when responding to a student in crisis?

Focusing on safe emotional support and understanding is paramount when responding to a student in crisis. This approach acknowledges the student's immediate emotional needs and creates a sense of safety, which is crucial in crisis situations. Providing empathetic support helps the student feel heard and validated, fostering an environment where they can express their feelings without fear of judgment.

In a crisis, the priority should be to stabilize the student's emotional state rather than immediately assess their academic performance or impose strict behavioral corrections. While follow-up sessions are important, they should come after addressing the immediate emotional needs of the student. By prioritizing emotional support, a counselor can effectively contribute to the student's feeling of security and openness, enabling a fuller and more productive recovery process.