25 Crisis Counselor Interview Questions and Answers

When a person is experiencing a mental health crisis, they may need the support of a crisis counselor. Crisis counselors provide short-term counseling, support, and referral services to people who are in a mental health crisis. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community mental health centers, and private practice.

If you are a mental health professional who is interested in working with people who are in a mental health crisis, you will likely need to go through a job interview. During the interview, you will be asked questions about your experience working with people who are in a mental health crisis. You will also be asked questions about your experience with different types of mental health disorders.

To help you prepare for your interview, we have gathered some of the most common questions that are asked in a crisis counselor interview. We have also included sample answers to these questions.

1. Are you comfortable working with people who are experiencing a crisis?

This question can help interviewers understand how you feel about working with people who are experiencing a crisis. It can also show them whether or not you have experience in this field. When answering, it can be helpful to mention any previous experiences that helped you develop your comfort level.

Example: “Absolutely. I have extensive experience working with people who are in crisis and understand the importance of providing a safe, supportive environment for them to express their feelings and concerns. I am confident that my ability to remain calm under pressure and provide effective guidance will be an asset to any team.

I believe that it is essential to approach each situation with empathy and understanding, while also maintaining professional boundaries. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where individuals can feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of repercussions. My goal is always to help those in need find solutions that work best for them.

In addition, I have a strong background in crisis intervention techniques such as active listening, de-escalation strategies, and problem solving skills. I am familiar with different types of crises, including mental health issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, and more. With this knowledge, I am able to assess the situation quickly and determine the most appropriate course of action.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for a crisis counselor to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest skills and how they relate to crisis counseling.

Example: “I believe that the most important skills for a crisis counselor to have are strong communication, active listening, and empathy. Communication is key in any counseling role, as it allows us to understand our clients’ needs and provide them with effective solutions. Active listening also plays an essential role in crisis counseling, as it helps us to better understand our clients’ concerns and identify potential areas of improvement. Finally, having empathy is critical when working with individuals who may be facing difficult or traumatic experiences. By understanding their feelings and emotions, we can create a safe environment where they feel comfortable discussing their issues.”

3. How would you handle a situation where a client becomes angry or upset during counseling?

This question can help interviewers understand how you react to challenging situations and how you use your skills to resolve them. In your answer, try to demonstrate that you have the ability to remain calm in stressful situations and empathize with clients who are experiencing strong emotions.

Example: “When a client becomes angry or upset during counseling, I believe it is important to remain calm and professional. My first step would be to listen carefully to the client’s concerns and acknowledge their feelings without judgement. It is also important to provide reassurance that they are in a safe space and can express themselves without fear of repercussions.

I would then take the time to explore what may have caused the anger or upset. This could include exploring past experiences, current stressors, or other underlying issues. By understanding the source of the emotion, I am better able to help the client work through their feelings.

If the situation escalates, I would use de-escalation techniques such as active listening, validating emotions, and providing options for coping with the distress. Finally, I would ensure that the client has access to additional resources if needed.”

4. What is your process for maintaining confidentiality when working with clients?

Maintaining confidentiality is an important part of being a crisis counselor. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the importance of keeping your clients’ information private and confidential. In your answer, explain that you will never share any client’s personal or identifying information without their permission. You can also mention that you keep all records in a secure location so they are not vulnerable to theft.

Example: “Maintaining confidentiality is a top priority when working with clients. I understand the importance of protecting my client’s privacy and providing them with a safe space to discuss their issues. My process for maintaining confidentiality begins with setting clear expectations at the start of our sessions. I explain that all information shared in our session will be kept confidential, unless there is an imminent risk of harm or danger to either myself or the client.

I also ensure that any notes taken during our session are stored securely and only accessed by me. In addition, I make sure to never use my client’s name when discussing their case outside of our sessions. Finally, I always ask permission before sharing any information about my client with other professionals. By following these steps, I am able to provide my clients with the assurance that their information will remain secure and private.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you helped a client make significant progress toward their goals.

This question can help interviewers understand your counseling style and how you’ve helped clients in the past. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you helped a client overcome an obstacle or challenge.

Example: “I recently had the pleasure of working with a client who was struggling to cope with the loss of their job. They were feeling overwhelmed and hopeless, and had difficulty seeing any potential for progress in their life.

To help them move forward, I worked closely with them to set achievable goals that would help them find new employment opportunities and build up their confidence. We discussed strategies for networking, resume building, and interviewing techniques. We also talked about ways to manage stress and anxiety while they searched for a new job.

After several weeks of hard work, my client was able to secure a new job and felt much more confident in their abilities. This was an incredibly rewarding experience for me as a Crisis Counselor, as I was able to provide support and guidance that enabled my client to make significant progress towards their goals.”

6. If a client is experiencing multiple issues, how would you prioritize your time with them?

This question can help interviewers understand how you prioritize your work and ensure clients receive the best care possible. Use examples from previous experience to explain how you would approach this situation, and highlight your ability to multitask effectively.

Example: “When a client is experiencing multiple issues, it can be difficult to prioritize my time with them. However, I believe that the most important thing is to ensure that they feel heard and understood. My first priority would be to create an open dialogue between us to build trust and rapport. This will allow me to gain a better understanding of their needs and concerns so that I can provide the best possible support.

Once we have established a strong connection, I would then focus on helping them identify which issue is causing the most distress or disruption in their life. We could then work together to develop strategies for managing this issue, while also addressing any other underlying issues. I would strive to help them find solutions that are tailored to their individual needs and goals. Finally, I would check-in regularly to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.”

7. What would you do if you learned one of your clients was considering self-harm or suicide?

This question can help interviewers understand how you would handle a crisis situation. In your answer, try to demonstrate that you have the skills and experience to provide support in these situations.

Example: “If I learned that one of my clients was considering self-harm or suicide, the first thing I would do is assess the situation to determine how serious the risk is. This includes gathering information about the client’s mental health history and current circumstances. Once I have a better understanding of their risk level, I can then create an individualized plan for them with appropriate interventions.

I would also provide emotional support by listening to the client without judgement and validating their feelings. It is important to show empathy and let them know they are not alone. I would also encourage them to talk about their thoughts and feelings in order to gain insight into what may be causing their distress.

Additionally, I would help the client identify coping skills and strategies to manage their emotions in a healthy way. Finally, I would refer the client to additional resources such as therapy, support groups, or other professionals if necessary. My goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of all my clients.”

8. How well do you perform under pressure? Can you provide an example of a time when you had to handle a situation quickly and effectively?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle stressful situations and whether you have experience working under pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a time when you had to act quickly or solve a problem in a short amount of time.

Example: “I am very comfortable performing under pressure and have had many experiences in which I had to handle a situation quickly and effectively. For example, when I was working as a Crisis Counselor at my previous job, we experienced an influx of clients who needed our help during a particularly difficult time. I was able to remain calm and collected while helping each client individually with their needs. I was also able to think quickly on my feet and come up with creative solutions that would best suit the individual’s needs. By doing this, I was able to provide effective crisis counseling services to all of our clients in a timely manner.”

9. Do you have any experience working with clients who speak a different language?

If the facility you’re interviewing for has a large population of clients who speak a different language, employers may ask this question to make sure you have experience working with people from diverse backgrounds. In your answer, try to highlight any specific skills or techniques you use when working with clients who don’t speak English.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with clients who speak a different language. During my time as a Crisis Counselor at ABC Organization, I was able to provide counseling services to individuals from various cultural backgrounds. This included providing support and guidance to those who spoke Spanish, French, Chinese, and Arabic.

I also had the opportunity to work closely with interpreters in order to ensure that all of my clients were receiving the best possible care. I understand the importance of being culturally competent when it comes to crisis counseling, so I always make sure to take the extra steps necessary to ensure that everyone is comfortable and understood.”

10. When working with clients who have developmental disabilities, do you have experience using adaptive techniques to communicate with them?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with clients who may not be able to communicate verbally. Adaptive techniques are methods used to help people with disabilities communicate, and your answer should include a specific example of how you used an adaptive technique to help one of your previous clients.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working with clients who have developmental disabilities and using adaptive techniques to communicate with them. In my previous role as a Crisis Counselor, I worked closely with individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder. I was able to develop effective communication strategies that allowed me to understand their needs and provide the best possible support.

I am familiar with different approaches such as visual supports, sign language, and other non-verbal methods of communication. I also understand how to modify language for those with limited verbal skills. I believe in creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves, regardless of their ability level. I strive to create a safe space for all clients by being patient, understanding, and respectful.”

11. We want to make sure our counselors feel supported. How would you handle a situation where you needed additional help or resources to meet the needs of a client?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you work with your team and ask for support when needed. Showcase your ability to collaborate with others, communicate effectively and solve problems.

Example: “I understand the importance of feeling supported in order to provide effective crisis counseling. When I need additional help or resources to meet the needs of a client, my first step is to reach out for assistance from colleagues and supervisors. I have found that having an open dialogue with those around me can be beneficial in finding solutions to difficult situations.

In addition, I am always researching new resources available to counselors so that I can stay up-to-date on any potential options for clients. This includes reading professional journals, attending conferences, and networking with other professionals in the field. Finally, if needed, I will contact outside organizations such as mental health centers or community support groups to find additional resources for clients.”

12. Describe your experience working with clients who have mental illnesses.

This question can help interviewers understand your experience working with clients who have mental illnesses and how you helped them. Use examples from previous work to show that you’re comfortable helping people with mental illnesses.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with clients who have mental illnesses. I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community-based organizations, and hospitals. In each setting, I have provided crisis counseling services to individuals experiencing emotional distress due to mental illness.

I am skilled at creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I strive to ensure that all of my clients feel heard and understood. I also work hard to empower them by providing resources and support so they can take control of their lives. My goal is to help them develop the skills necessary to cope with their mental health issues.

In addition, I am knowledgeable about various therapeutic approaches and techniques used to treat mental illness. I understand the importance of tailoring treatment plans to meet individual needs and preferences. I am committed to helping my clients find the best possible solutions to their problems.”

13. What makes you an ideal candidate for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications for the role. They want to know what makes you a good fit for their organization and how you can contribute to its success. Before your interview, make a list of all your relevant skills and experiences. Think about which ones are most applicable to this position. Share these with the interviewer so they can see why you’re an excellent choice.

Example: “I believe I am the ideal candidate for this position because of my experience and qualifications. I have been working as a Crisis Counselor for over five years, providing support to individuals in crisis situations. During this time, I have developed strong interpersonal skills that enable me to effectively communicate with clients and provide them with the necessary resources they need during their time of crisis.

In addition to my experience, I also possess a Master’s degree in Social Work which has provided me with an understanding of the psychological principles behind crisis counseling. This knowledge allows me to better assess the needs of my clients and develop tailored plans to help them through their difficult times. Finally, I am passionate about helping others and strive to make a positive difference in people’s lives.”

14. Which counseling methods do you prefer to use when working with clients?

This question can help interviewers understand your counseling style and how you interact with clients. It can also show them which skills you have developed over time. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few methods that you enjoy using and why.

Example: “I prefer to use a combination of counseling methods when working with clients. I believe that each client is unique and requires an individualized approach, so I like to tailor my counseling techniques to meet the needs of the individual. My primary focus is on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. This method has been proven to be effective in helping people cope with difficult emotions and situations.

In addition, I also incorporate elements of solution-focused therapy, which focuses on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. Finally, I often draw from motivational interviewing, which encourages clients to explore their own motivations for change. By combining these different approaches, I am able to provide comprehensive care tailored to the specific needs of each client.”

15. What do you think is the most important thing to remember when working with clients in a crisis?

This question can help interviewers understand your counseling philosophy and how you approach clients in a crisis. Your answer should show that you have strong interpersonal skills, are empathetic and compassionate and can communicate effectively with others.

Example: “When working with clients in a crisis, I believe the most important thing to remember is that each individual’s experience and needs are unique. It is essential to take the time to listen to the client and understand their perspective without judgement or assumptions. This allows for an open dialogue where the client can feel heard and understood.

In addition, it is important to remain non-judgmental and provide unconditional support throughout the process. As a Crisis Counselor, I strive to create a safe space for my clients to express themselves and work through their issues. By providing empathy and understanding, I am able to help them identify solutions and develop coping strategies to manage their situation. Ultimately, my goal is to empower my clients to find their own strength and resilience to overcome any challenges they may face.”

16. How often do you think you should meet with clients to provide effective counseling?

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand how often you meet with clients and the frequency of your counseling sessions. This can help them determine if you have experience meeting with clients on a regular basis, which is important for this role. When answering this question, consider what the organization’s policies are regarding counseling sessions and try to match your answer to their expectations.

Example: “I believe that the frequency of meetings with clients should be tailored to each individual’s needs. Every client is unique and has different goals for counseling, so it’s important to assess their needs on a case-by-case basis. Generally speaking, I think meeting once or twice a week is ideal in order to provide effective counseling. This allows us to build rapport and trust while also providing enough time to make meaningful progress towards the client’s goals.

At the same time, I understand that life can be unpredictable and some weeks may require more frequent sessions than others. If this happens, I’m always willing to adjust my schedule accordingly to ensure that my clients are receiving the support they need. Ultimately, my goal is to provide quality care that meets the needs of every client.”

17. There is a high volume of clients who need your help. How would you prioritize your time with each client to ensure they feel valued?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you would manage your time and workload in a high-pressure environment. Use examples from previous experience to show that you are organized, efficient and able to prioritize tasks effectively.

Example: “I understand the importance of providing each client with an individualized experience and making sure they feel valued. I believe that prioritizing my time with each client is essential to ensure that all clients receive the attention and care they need.

When it comes to managing a high volume of clients, I prioritize by focusing on the most urgent cases first. This includes assessing any immediate safety concerns, addressing any mental health crises, and responding to any other pressing issues. After this initial assessment, I will then move onto less urgent matters such as providing emotional support, helping clients develop coping skills, and offering resources for long-term healing.”

18. Describe a time when you had to manage multiple clients at once.

This question can help interviewers understand how you might manage a busy schedule and still provide quality care to clients. Use your answer to highlight your ability to multitask, prioritize tasks and work under pressure.

Example: “I have extensive experience managing multiple clients at once. Most recently, I was a Crisis Counselor for a large non-profit organization where I had to manage up to 20 clients at any given time. My primary responsibility was to provide support and guidance to individuals in crisis situations. To do this effectively, I had to be organized and efficient in my approach.

I developed an individualized plan for each client that included regular check-ins, goal setting, and progress tracking. This allowed me to keep track of all the clients’ needs and ensure they were receiving the best possible care. I also worked closely with other counselors to coordinate services and resources when needed. By staying organized and communicating regularly with my colleagues, I was able to successfully manage multiple clients simultaneously.”

19. Are there any particular situations that you are not comfortable handling as a crisis counselor?

This question can help an interviewer understand your experience level and how you might handle a situation that is outside of your comfort zone. It can also show them what types of situations you are comfortable handling, which can be helpful for determining the type of assignments you may receive if hired. When answering this question, it can be beneficial to mention any specific situations that you have experience with and those that you do not but would like to learn more about.

Example: “As a crisis counselor, I am comfortable handling a wide range of situations. However, there are some cases that may be outside my scope of expertise or comfort level. For example, if the situation involves physical violence, I would refer the client to another professional who is better equipped to handle such a case. Similarly, if the situation involves a mental health issue beyond my training and experience, I will always refer the client to an appropriate specialist.”

20. What do you think are the most important aspects of providing effective counseling services?

This question can help interviewers understand your counseling philosophy and how you approach your work. Your answer can also give them insight into the type of clients you might best serve, so it’s important to be honest about your preferences.

Example: “I believe that providing effective counseling services requires a few key elements. First and foremost, it is essential to create an environment of trust and safety for the client. This means being open and honest with them while also respecting their boundaries and confidentiality. It is also important to be empathetic and understanding when listening to the client’s story and helping them to explore their feelings and thoughts. Finally, I think it is important to provide resources and guidance to help the client make positive changes in their life.”

21. How would your previous experience in this field help you be successful in this role?

This question can help the interviewer determine if your previous experience is a good fit for this role. Use your answer to highlight any skills you have that will be helpful in this position, such as conflict resolution or communication skills.

Example: “My previous experience in crisis counseling has given me a strong foundation for success in this role. I have worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, providing them with the support they need during difficult times. My ability to remain calm under pressure and provide empathetic guidance has been essential in helping my clients navigate their crises.

I am also well-versed in various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy. This knowledge allows me to tailor my approach to each individual client’s needs, ensuring that they receive the best possible care. In addition, I have extensive experience working with community organizations, developing relationships with other professionals, and advocating for those in need.”

22. Do you have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma or abuse?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience working with clients who may be experiencing a crisis. When answering, it can be helpful to mention any specific experiences you’ve had in the past that helped you develop skills or techniques for helping these types of clients.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma or abuse. During my time as a Crisis Counselor at my previous job, I worked closely with individuals who had been victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. I was able to provide emotional support and guidance through their healing journey. My approach was always tailored to the individual’s needs, taking into account their unique situation and history.

I am also well-versed in crisis intervention techniques such as active listening, problem solving, and de-escalation strategies. I believe that these skills are essential when helping someone process traumatic experiences. In addition, I have taken courses on trauma-informed care and understand how important it is to create a safe and supportive environment for those who have gone through difficult times.”

23. Describe a situation where you had to intervene and de-escalate an emotionally charged conversation.

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to handle conflict and resolve disagreements. In your answer, try to describe a situation where you used your interpersonal skills to help others communicate more effectively and reach an agreement or compromise.

Example: “I was recently working with a client who had experienced a traumatic event and was feeling overwhelmed by the emotions that came up for them. They were having difficulty managing their feelings and began to become agitated in our conversation. I knew it was important to intervene quickly before things got out of hand, so I took a few moments to pause and assess the situation.

I then used active listening techniques to help my client feel heard and understood. I asked open-ended questions to gain insight into what they were feeling and why, and I validated their experience without judgement. This allowed us to have an honest dialogue about the situation and helped to de-escalate the emotionally charged conversation. By taking this approach, we were able to move forward in a productive way and come up with a plan to address the issue at hand.”

24. Do you have any experience working with families? If so, how did you handle conflicts between family members?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience working with families and how you handled conflicts between family members. If you have worked with a family before, describe the situation in detail to show that you can handle similar situations again.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with families. My most recent role was as a Crisis Counselor at an inpatient mental health facility where I worked closely with family members to help them understand and support their loved one’s treatment plan.

When it came to conflicts between family members, my approach was always to focus on the underlying issues that were causing the conflict. I would start by listening to each person’s perspective and then work to identify any common ground they could agree on. From there, I would facilitate conversations to help them come up with solutions that addressed everyone’s needs. This often involved helping them find ways to compromise or finding alternative strategies for resolving the issue.”

25. What strategies do you use to ensure that all clients feel safe during their sessions?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your counseling skills and how they apply to crisis situations. Use examples from previous experience to show the interviewer that you can create a safe environment for clients during their sessions.

Example: “When it comes to ensuring that all clients feel safe during their sessions, I believe in creating a trusting and supportive environment. To do this, I always start by introducing myself and explaining my role as a Crisis Counselor. I also make sure to explain the confidentiality of our conversations so that they know their information is secure.

I also focus on active listening and open-ended questions. This allows me to gain an understanding of the client’s situation and provide them with a space to express themselves without judgement. It’s important for clients to feel heard and understood, which helps build trust between us.

Additionally, I strive to create a non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can openly discuss any issues or concerns they may have. I also encourage clients to take breaks if needed and offer resources such as hotlines or support groups when appropriate. Finally, I am always available to answer any questions or address any worries they may have throughout the session.”