This presentation was part of the 6th Annual Mobile Mental Health Crisis Response Summit.
In moments of crisis, the language we use can make all the difference in how children perceive, understand, and respond to their emotions and experiences. This presentation will explore specific phrases, and language shifts that mobile crisis teams can adopt when engaging with children during moments of distress. Attendees will learn the importance of using empathetic, developmentally appropriate, and de-escalating language to foster trust and safety. Through real-world examples, we’ll highlight why certain phrases work better in these high-stress moments and demonstrate how they can be applied effectively in practice.
Learning Objectives:
1. Identify key language shifts that can enhance communication with children during a mental health crisis.
2. Understand the impact of developmentally appropriate language in de-escalating and supporting children in distress.
3. Apply real-world examples to practice using effective, empathetic phrases in mobile crisis intervention with children.
Content Level: Advanced level: For experienced crisis responders diving deep into a topic.|Innovation: Designed to highlight new learnings, strategies or lines of thinking.
Presenter: Rosilynn Morris, LICSW, Therapist – Find Your Peace
Bio: As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Rosilynn wholeheartedly believes in the transformative power of therapy. She provides trauma-informed, culturally-responsive care and support people across the lifespan.
Curriculum
- 1 Section
- 1 Lesson
- Lifetime
