The five stages
01
Self-Capacity Check
Score eight signals. Catch activation before it drives the response.
02
DRAIN Filter
Defined · Resourced · Aligned · Insured · Non-chaotic.
03
Response Tier
Proceed, Contain, Restrict, or Pause / Reset / Exit.
04
Condition Builder
Convert emotional reaction into a clear operating condition.
05
Client Response
Generate a contained message in your chosen tone.
06
Decompression
Clear the load. Facts only. Recover before re-engaging.
Containment before strategy.
Some clients do not just create work — they create load. The Containment Gate gives you a repeatable decision framework so you do not become more invested in their outcome than they are.