The Adult Basic Education (ABE) classroom is often viewed as a "safe haven" for participants. The teacher's actions, interest or lack of interest in participants and the degree of concern or caring expressed for the learners all make a difference in program retention. As a result of this bond between teacher and learners, ABE instructors find themselves being asked about a wide range of problems and crises that learners experience. The purpose of this monograph is to provide some guidance for teachers as to what to do and still be able to teach the other class members. It will teach instructors how to recognize ineffective communication, how to listen effectively and open channels of communication, and how to make a referral. Classroom strategies that allow the instructor to keep the classroom running smoothly, yet still guide the learner in crisis to the right individual who can help them are provided. Chapters are: (1) Introduction; (2) Roadblocks to Communication; (3) Helper Characteristics and Skills; (4) What is a Crisis? (5) Crises in the Classroom: Domestic Violence, Suicide, Parenting, Offensive Language, Learner Conflict; (6) References; and (7) Appendices. Contains 20 references. (JBJ)