What is the second stage of Golan's crisis intervention model focused on?

The second stage of Golan's crisis intervention model is centered around assessing life prior to the crisis. This stage is crucial because it helps the counselor and the individual in crisis understand the context and background factors that may have contributed to the crisis situation. By evaluating the individual’s normal functioning and coping mechanisms before the crisis occurred, the counselor can identify strengths, resources, and patterns that can be leveraged in the recovery process.

This assessment provides insights that are key to developing appropriate interventions and support strategies tailored to the individual’s needs. Understanding the pre-crisis state can also clarify what has changed, thereby highlighting the specific challenges that need to be addressed moving forward.

In contrast, other options such as making immediate referrals, creating a support network, or developing long-term strategies might be important components of a comprehensive crisis intervention plan, but they do not directly align with the focus of the second stage, which is about understanding the individual’s life and functioning prior to the crisis.