During a counseling session, what is the best immediate action if a client becomes progressively more agitated?

When a client becomes progressively more agitated during a counseling session, the best immediate action is to call for assistance. This response prioritizes the safety of both the client and the counselor. Agitation can indicate that a client is experiencing emotional distress or may be on the verge of acting out. Having extra support ensures that the situation can be managed appropriately and safely.

Calling for assistance allows for another trained professional to help de-escalate the situation, which can provide the client with the necessary support and help mitigate any potential risks involved. This action reflects an understanding of the importance of maintaining a safe therapeutic environment, recognizing when a situation is beyond the individual counselor's capacity to manage alone.

Engaging in a discussion about feelings or changing the subject may not be effective at that moment, as the client's agitation could prevent them from being receptive to such interventions. Asking the client to leave could potentially escalate the situation further, leading to increased distress for both the client and counselor. Therefore, the most prudent and effective response in this scenario is to call for assistance.