February 24, 2026 | Quebec

When Immediate Action Is Required

In special care counselling, some situations require immediate, thoughtful, and safe intervention. Crises can arise unexpectedly, and the ability to respond calmly and professionally is essential.

The Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program at CDI College prepares students to intervene effectively while ensuring the safety and dignity of the individuals they support.

Understanding What a Crisis Is

A crisis can take many forms. It often involves emotional overload, loss of control, or behaviours that place the individual or others at risk. Examples include:

• intense emotional reactions;
• aggressive or impulsive behaviour;
• severe distress;
• resistance accompanied by heightened tension.

Understanding the dynamics of a crisis helps professionals respond appropriately rather than react impulsively.

Prevention as the First Line of Intervention

In special care counselling, crisis intervention begins well before a situation escalates. Students learn to recognize early warning signs and apply preventive strategies. These include:

• observing behavioural changes;
• adjusting the environment or expectations;
• using calming communication strategies;
• respecting the individual’s pace and boundaries.

Prevention often helps reduce escalation.

Responding with Calm and Structure

When a crisis occurs, the goal is not control, but de-escalation, safety, and support. Training at CDI College emphasizes:

• maintaining a calm and reassuring presence;
• applying appropriate intervention techniques;
• following workplace protocols;
• working collaboratively with the team.

Each response is designed to reduce risk while respecting the individual.

After the Crisis: Reflecting and Adjusting

Once the situation stabilizes, reflection is essential. Students learn to analyze what led to the crisis and adapt future interventions accordingly. This includes:

• identifying contributing factors;
• adjusting intervention strategies;
• supporting updates to the intervention plan;
• helping individuals return to a stable state.

Training Grounded in Real-World Practice

Through practice-based training and 990 hours of supervised field placement, students at CDI College gain hands-on experience responding to crises.

They apply their skills in schools, youth centers, community organizations, mental health facilities, seniors’ residences, and correctional institutions, developing confidence and professional judgment.

Intervening to Protect and Support

Crisis intervention is ultimately about protection, support, and care.

The Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program at CDI College Business. Technology. Healthcare prepares graduates to respond with calm, compassion, and professionalism, even in high-pressure situations.

👉 Learn more about the Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program at CDI College

FAQ

1. Do special care counsellors often deal with crises?
Depending on the setting, they may intervene during emotional distress or challenging behaviours.

2. Does the program prepare students for crisis intervention?
Yes. Training includes theory, practical exercises, and supervised field placements.

3. Is crisis intervention always physical?
No. It focuses primarily on communication, prevention, and de-escalation, following workplace protocols.