Discusses the use of the nonprofessional volunteer in short-term crisis intervention techniques. The experience of the L.A.S.P.C. with nonprofessional volunteers is described. Training included a) a 4-wk program meeting 2 full days/week with a 40-hr clinical practicum; b) practice in handling telephone calls with close supervision; & c) continued weekly meetings with case conferences. Stringent selection of volunteers & sensitivity to their morale (i.e., avoiding boredom) is stressed.