What should a coach do if a client experiences distress during sessions?

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Multiple Choice

What should a coach do if a client experiences distress during sessions?

Responding to distress safely is essential when a client shows signs of agitation or crisis. Start by assessing safety: ask about any immediate risk of harm to self or others, current crisis symptoms, substance use, and access to weapons or dangerous plans. If there is danger, take appropriate steps to reduce risk, which may include staying with the client, activating emergency services, or guiding them to crisis resources, depending on the setting and consent. Then discuss concerns with the client in a calm, nonjudgmental way—validate their feelings, acknowledge the distress, and collaboratively explore options and preferences for next steps. Finally, connect the client with appropriate services such as mental health or addiction professionals, crisis hotlines, or social supports, and arrange follow-up to ensure continued safety and support. Ignoring distress, blaming the client, or ending services without a plan for safety and follow-up are not viable approaches, as they fail to protect the client and disrupt access to necessary help.

Responding to distress safely is essential when a client shows signs of agitation or crisis. Start by assessing safety: ask about any immediate risk of harm to self or others, current crisis symptoms, substance use, and access to weapons or dangerous plans. If there is danger, take appropriate steps to reduce risk, which may include staying with the client, activating emergency services, or guiding them to crisis resources, depending on the setting and consent. Then discuss concerns with the client in a calm, nonjudgmental way—validate their feelings, acknowledge the distress, and collaboratively explore options and preferences for next steps. Finally, connect the client with appropriate services such as mental health or addiction professionals, crisis hotlines, or social supports, and arrange follow-up to ensure continued safety and support.

Ignoring distress, blaming the client, or ending services without a plan for safety and follow-up are not viable approaches, as they fail to protect the client and disrupt access to necessary help.

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