What is the purpose of establishing rapport early in crisis intervention?

• A. To build trust and gather essential information for assessing needs and planning action
• B. To quickly terminate the encounter
• C. To impose the worker's agenda
• D. To avoid discussing safety

Answer: (A)

Establishing rapport early creates a safe, collaborative space where the client feels heard, respected, and in control. That foundation makes it possible for them to share details about what they’re experiencing, their safety concerns, and the supports they have or need. With this trust, you can accurately assess needs, identify risks, and plan actions that align with the client’s goals and real circumstances. Without rapport, disclosures may be guarded, risk information can be missed, and the intervention may fail to connect the client with the right supports.

Terminating the encounter quickly, imposing the worker’s agenda, or avoiding safety discussions all undermine this process by breaking trust, disempowering the client, or leaving imminent risks unaddressed.