For advisors, trying to meet out-of-work individuals’ needs can be challenging, but providing a supportive ear while be encouraging and acknowledging that out-of-work clients have been responsible by preparing for such times can to a long way in strengthening relationships. And, the temporary shutdown also provides advisors an opportunity to talk with clients about preparing for future periods of unemployment.

In many ways, advisors should use the same strategy with furloughed government workers that they may use with any client that has unintentionally become unemployed. The first step—Advisors should ensure that their clients file for unemployment. While claiming such benefits may sound like a no brainer, some clients may be reluctant to do so simply out of pride.

But, the bottom line is that no one knows how long the government shutdown may last, so clients shouldn’t be bashful about applying for benefits that they are entitled to. Different states, of course, have different requirements for seeking benefits. Virginia, for example, doesn’t start benefits until an individual has been out of work for at least a week while Maryland has no waiting period.

After discussing unemployment benefits, advisors should listen to their clients’ concerns. Indeed, at times, being a financial planner may feel like being a psychologist in the sense that out-of-work clients may need a sympathetic ear while they struggle with emotions associated with being unemployed. At such times, it’s important to acknowledge that clients are going through a difficult time and that career frustrations and financial fears are understandable.

Advisors should also focus on the positives. Emphasizing that clients have prepared from such times by building emergency funds can provide some comfort. Advisors can also offer to help clients review their budgets and find expenses that can be cut back during times of unemployment.

Such expenses may include entertainment, including going out to eat, seeing movies or traveling. Advisors may also want to mention that unemployment can be an opportunity for clients to assess if they should consider making career changes, such as pursuing additional education or taking an early retirement. At the same time, however, individuals that are dealing with the shock and frustrations of being laid off should probably avoid making large, life changing decisions without careful consideration.

A stint of unemployment, as painful as it may be, can also be beneficial. In addition to taking time out of work to assess making careers changes, clients may want to build a social networking presence and also reach out to past coworkers, alumni and other acquaintances to prepare themselves for searching for work in the event they decide that now is a time for change.