Full-Day Class: Advanced Techniques in Calming and Controlling Volatile Subjects
This comprehensive day-long class, typically lasting about eight hours, builds upon the foundational material presented in the introductory class and expands into advanced strategies for managing volatile individuals.
Course Structure
The session begins with a review of key concepts from the half-day class, delving deeper into techniques specifically targeting states of anger and rage. Participants will learn effective interaction skills for engaging individuals exhibiting substance use or psychological disorders, acknowledging the often unpredictable nature of their behavior.
It’s essential to clarify that, while we discuss the dynamics of these interactions, attendees are not trained to diagnose individuals. Many skilled professionals are equipped to assess a person’s needs over time. At Northwest Crisis Training, our primary focus is on immediate safety and intervention, preparing participants to handle critical situations as they arise.
Focusing excessively on the “why” of a behavior may hinder opportunities for de-escalation and the establishment of a safe environment. Our approach emphasizes addressing observable behaviors rather than the underlying causes. For example, if an individual is in a manic state, it is crucial to recognize that state without getting sidetracked by potential diagnoses, such as bipolar disorder, substance influence, or traumatic brain injury.
In-Depth Discussions and Customization
This full-day class fosters extensive discussions, allowing attendees to explore real-life scenarios involving individuals displaying volatile behaviors. We enhance participants’ ability to identify potential dangers and utilize that awareness to prevent violence effectively.
Each participant will receive a flyer accompanying the introductory class materials.
To tailor the training to your specific workplace environment, we encourage informal meetings or walkthroughs prior to the session. While the methodology remains consistent, the application can vary significantly between settings. For example, we do not employ “police” tactics in a shelter or office environment, just as we would not apply social services approaches in a correctional facility. If desired, we can also dedicate additional training time to specific topics, such as anger management.
Recommended Resources
We highly recommend that all participants purchase the corresponding textbook to enhance their learning experience. More information about the book can be found here: Creating a Culture of Safety. This link also provides options to purchase the book in hardcover, paperback, and e-reader formats.
If your agency wishes to procure books directly for your staff—an option I strongly endorse—I am happy to assist in coordinating with Edgework Books. Additionally, with prior arrangement, I can bring the books to the class.