This manual is designed for the reader interested in complete requirements for establishing and maintaining a personal crisis counseling program. However, because it is divided into books and sections which can be read as specialized manuals in and of themselves, it is also a useful guide for the reader seeking specific program information. Thus it should be useful to a number of persons involved with the initiation and operation of a program: community supporters, sponsors, administrators, volunteers, referral agency personnel, news media representative, and the interested public. Although this manual contains general guidelines for establishing and operating a crisis counseling program, it is based on the specific experiences of the Portland, Oregon, Hot Line Program. Subject matter is divided into two books. Book I offers advice on the overall administrative procedures required in setting up and operating a Hot Line program. Book II, which focuses on training volunteers, is subdivided into two sections the first of which deals with the procedure for setting up, operating and evaluating a training program. The second outlines the content of a general training curriculum. Forms, charts and other sample materials are included in an appendix section. (Author)