Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Edmonton, AB

Photo of William Smiley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Smiley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5W
I believe you are the expert in your own life and that you don't need someone to tell you what to do. However, we all get stuck sometimes. If you are overwhelmed by problems, hurting, anxious, depressed, or feeling suicidal, it is really helpful to talk to someone who is trained and neutral and can help you move forward in your life and relationships.
I believe you are the expert in your own life and that you don't need someone to tell you what to do. However, we all get stuck sometimes. If you are overwhelmed by problems, hurting, anxious, depressed, or feeling suicidal, it is really helpful to talk to someone who is trained and neutral and can help you move forward in your life and relationships.
(587) 412-1683 View (587) 412-1683
Photo of Michelle Kennedy, MC, Psychologist
Michelle Kennedy
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5R
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently running a wait list... My ideal client doesn't exist because EVERYONE deserves competent, compassionate, culturally appropriate, accessible mental health care. You are my ideal candidate because you are human. I want to spend our time together helping you creating the space to share your story in your voice. We can talk about death, love, depression, anxiety, suicide, and gender. Or anything else that’s causing you to feel stuck. I particularly love working with 2SLGBTQIA+ adults, couples, and others who face marginalization in their day to day lives. I value collaboration, commitment, humour, joy and love.
I am currently running a wait list... My ideal client doesn't exist because EVERYONE deserves competent, compassionate, culturally appropriate, accessible mental health care. You are my ideal candidate because you are human. I want to spend our time together helping you creating the space to share your story in your voice. We can talk about death, love, depression, anxiety, suicide, and gender. Or anything else that’s causing you to feel stuck. I particularly love working with 2SLGBTQIA+ adults, couples, and others who face marginalization in their day to day lives. I value collaboration, commitment, humour, joy and love.
(587) 316-6197 View (587) 316-6197
Photo of Melissa C. Reimchen, BA/BSc, MA, RPPsych, Psychologist
Melissa C. Reimchen
Psychologist, BA/BSc, MA, RPPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Areas of particular interest include the intersect between mood and psychosis, borderline personality, and chronic suicidal ideation.
I am an integrative psychodynamic therapist who employs evidence-based interventions to support my clients in developing a grounding sense of identity, a meaningful life with purpose, and fulfilling interpersonal relationships. The therapeutic process, in part, entails an exploration of early attachment, stressors and adversity, coping mechanisms, patterns in relating to others, and internal conflicts. My approach involves consideration of psychological distress in relation to social identity, self-esteem, and the fundamental human need for belongingness.
Areas of particular interest include the intersect between mood and psychosis, borderline personality, and chronic suicidal ideation.
I am an integrative psychodynamic therapist who employs evidence-based interventions to support my clients in developing a grounding sense of identity, a meaningful life with purpose, and fulfilling interpersonal relationships. The therapeutic process, in part, entails an exploration of early attachment, stressors and adversity, coping mechanisms, patterns in relating to others, and internal conflicts. My approach involves consideration of psychological distress in relation to social identity, self-esteem, and the fundamental human need for belongingness.
(587) 854-6345 View (587) 854-6345
Photo of Sarah Mittelsteadt, MACP, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Sarah Mittelsteadt
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Welcome to the therapy experience you never knew you needed, where authenticity is the golden rule, the secret ingredient is kindness, and laughter is as celebrated as therapy wins. Whether you are a seasoned therapy pro or just dipping your toes into the therapy world, I promise to meet you where you're at and walk with you through your therapy journey. I work with individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life, of (almost) all ages to navigate PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-identity, conflicts, emotion regulation, trauma, boundaries, self-harm, suicidal ideation, sexual dysfunction, stress, relationships and sexuality.
Welcome to the therapy experience you never knew you needed, where authenticity is the golden rule, the secret ingredient is kindness, and laughter is as celebrated as therapy wins. Whether you are a seasoned therapy pro or just dipping your toes into the therapy world, I promise to meet you where you're at and walk with you through your therapy journey. I work with individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life, of (almost) all ages to navigate PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-identity, conflicts, emotion regulation, trauma, boundaries, self-harm, suicidal ideation, sexual dysfunction, stress, relationships and sexuality.
(587) 402-8060 View (587) 402-8060
Photo of Nadia Proano - Well Workshop Ltd, RPsych, MC, Psychologist
Well Workshop Ltd
Psychologist, RPsych, MC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Therapists may support ∙ Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ∙ Anxiety ∙ Sleep Issues ∙ Trauma ∙ Depression ∙ Parenting Supports ∙ Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) ∙ Behavior Concerns ∙ Stress ∙ Self-esteem ∙ Suicidal Ideation ∙ Bipolar Disorder ∙ Child/Adolescent Issues.
Welcome to Well Workshop, Edmonton's ADHD clinic. The road to wellness is ongoing and can be difficult to navigate alone; with support from Well Workshop, you won’t have to. Individually, as a couple, or family, you’ll have the opportunity to work together with your therapist to acquire tools to develop and strengthen the skills and techniques needed for you to be–and stay–mentally, emotionally, and physically well.
Therapists may support ∙ Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ∙ Anxiety ∙ Sleep Issues ∙ Trauma ∙ Depression ∙ Parenting Supports ∙ Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) ∙ Behavior Concerns ∙ Stress ∙ Self-esteem ∙ Suicidal Ideation ∙ Bipolar Disorder ∙ Child/Adolescent Issues.
Welcome to Well Workshop, Edmonton's ADHD clinic. The road to wellness is ongoing and can be difficult to navigate alone; with support from Well Workshop, you won’t have to. Individually, as a couple, or family, you’ll have the opportunity to work together with your therapist to acquire tools to develop and strengthen the skills and techniques needed for you to be–and stay–mentally, emotionally, and physically well.
(587) 741-9095 View (587) 741-9095
Photo of Maia Mazanishvili, BA, MSc, CCC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Maia Mazanishvili
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MSc, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5K
Registered Provisional Psychologist. PhD Psychology student. Educator with expertise in Mental Health Management,Supervision,Trauma informed Leadership,Clinical Consultation & Therapy. 18 years in the field of Psychodiagnostcs,Psychotherapy, and Counseling, specializing in Complex Trauma, Personality Disorders, justce/correctons/forensics & military psychology, Substance Dependence, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Chronic illness, Suicidal ideation. Using: Object Relations therapy, CBT,DBT,ABA, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy,Attachment, Family Systems, Narrative Psychotherapy,MI, Theraplay and culturally sensitive biopsychosocial approach.
Registered Provisional Psychologist. PhD Psychology student. Educator with expertise in Mental Health Management,Supervision,Trauma informed Leadership,Clinical Consultation & Therapy. 18 years in the field of Psychodiagnostcs,Psychotherapy, and Counseling, specializing in Complex Trauma, Personality Disorders, justce/correctons/forensics & military psychology, Substance Dependence, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Chronic illness, Suicidal ideation. Using: Object Relations therapy, CBT,DBT,ABA, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy,Attachment, Family Systems, Narrative Psychotherapy,MI, Theraplay and culturally sensitive biopsychosocial approach.
(587) 802-1812 View (587) 802-1812
Photo of Jocelyn Nand, MA, Psychologist
Jocelyn Nand
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
I have received additional training in sand tray therapy, play therapy, art based therapy, child parent relationship therapy, trauma and suicide assessment/prevention.
It is my belief that therapy is both a dialogue and collaborative relationship between the therapist and their clients. I aim to establish a safe, trusting and encouraging environment for my clients. However, I also strive towards building resiliency, raising self awareness and connecting my clients to a greater sense of community. I enjoy working with clients from all age groups (children, adolescents and adults). I have been offering therapeutic services in the community for 6 years.
I have received additional training in sand tray therapy, play therapy, art based therapy, child parent relationship therapy, trauma and suicide assessment/prevention.
It is my belief that therapy is both a dialogue and collaborative relationship between the therapist and their clients. I aim to establish a safe, trusting and encouraging environment for my clients. However, I also strive towards building resiliency, raising self awareness and connecting my clients to a greater sense of community. I enjoy working with clients from all age groups (children, adolescents and adults). I have been offering therapeutic services in the community for 6 years.
(855) 734-4769 View (855) 734-4769
Photo of Robert Valela, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Robert Valela
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6H
I offer personalized therapy that works. I'm committed to helping you feel better, achieve your goals, and overcome any challenge, be it intrusive thoughts, painful and intense emotions, or posttraumatic stress from issues like combat or sexual trauma, accidents, abuse, assault, death, or suicide. I work with couples and adults dealing with trauma, posttraumatic stress (PTSD), anxiety, panic, depression, grief, ADHD, and relationship issues. I focus on supporting couples and adults within military, police, correctional, emergency medical, healthcare, and fire rescue services confronting challenges like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
I offer personalized therapy that works. I'm committed to helping you feel better, achieve your goals, and overcome any challenge, be it intrusive thoughts, painful and intense emotions, or posttraumatic stress from issues like combat or sexual trauma, accidents, abuse, assault, death, or suicide. I work with couples and adults dealing with trauma, posttraumatic stress (PTSD), anxiety, panic, depression, grief, ADHD, and relationship issues. I focus on supporting couples and adults within military, police, correctional, emergency medical, healthcare, and fire rescue services confronting challenges like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
(587) 801-4629 View (587) 801-4629
Photo of Sadique Ahmed Pathan, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sadique Ahmed Pathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6V
Many people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, feel embarrassed or stigmatized. Others who struggle with domestic violence, relationship issues, faith based struggles, addiction issues, suicidal ideations, and anger management issues feel alone and unsure of who they can speak to. The foundation of my counselling practice is being compassionate and non-judgmental. I provide a person-centred practice which is about the client defining their own goals. I assure my clients they are in a safe place, confidentiality upheld, validated, and their life story and experiences honoured.
Many people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, feel embarrassed or stigmatized. Others who struggle with domestic violence, relationship issues, faith based struggles, addiction issues, suicidal ideations, and anger management issues feel alone and unsure of who they can speak to. The foundation of my counselling practice is being compassionate and non-judgmental. I provide a person-centred practice which is about the client defining their own goals. I assure my clients they are in a safe place, confidentiality upheld, validated, and their life story and experiences honoured.
(825) 250-3352 View (825) 250-3352
Photo of Miranda Rempel, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Miranda Rempel
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6W
Life is difficult. We all face challenges that leave us feeling sad, angry, overwhelmed and at times, stuck. Feelings change our behaviours and soon we find ourselves snapping, hating our jobs, drinking, and not eating or sleeping, among other symptoms. Suddenly we barely recognize ourselves. If you have ever told yourself that this is not the person you want to be, you are not alone. Seeking professional help is the first step in making positive change. If you are consumed by anger, hurt, worry, grief, suicidal thoughts, or using self-harm or poor coping to control pain, I can help.
Life is difficult. We all face challenges that leave us feeling sad, angry, overwhelmed and at times, stuck. Feelings change our behaviours and soon we find ourselves snapping, hating our jobs, drinking, and not eating or sleeping, among other symptoms. Suddenly we barely recognize ourselves. If you have ever told yourself that this is not the person you want to be, you are not alone. Seeking professional help is the first step in making positive change. If you are consumed by anger, hurt, worry, grief, suicidal thoughts, or using self-harm or poor coping to control pain, I can help.
(587) 603-6120 View (587) 603-6120
Photo of Jennifer Roesler, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Jennifer Roesler
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Welcome, you have just taken the first step to healing! I have experience working with anxiety, depression, substance use, medical trauma & chronic illness, ADHD, brain injury, OCD, boundaries, career/life transitions, suicide, abuse, trauma, and PTSD. Additionally, I work with couples to help increase communication, overcome betrayal, or regulate emotions. I also work with families to increase boundaries, communication, and heal trauma. I work with Adults, Elderly, Couples, and Families. I am also non-status Indigenous and support inter-generational trauma, cultural and mental health issues for clients of all cultures.
Welcome, you have just taken the first step to healing! I have experience working with anxiety, depression, substance use, medical trauma & chronic illness, ADHD, brain injury, OCD, boundaries, career/life transitions, suicide, abuse, trauma, and PTSD. Additionally, I work with couples to help increase communication, overcome betrayal, or regulate emotions. I also work with families to increase boundaries, communication, and heal trauma. I work with Adults, Elderly, Couples, and Families. I am also non-status Indigenous and support inter-generational trauma, cultural and mental health issues for clients of all cultures.
(825) 525-2949 View (825) 525-2949
Photo of Sana Atiq-Omar - Sana Atiq-Omar, Online Therapist SAO Counselling, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Sana Atiq-Omar, Online Therapist SAO Counselling
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6R
I also have training in working with clients with a history of trauma, domestic violence, suicidal ideation, and PTSD.
Life is not always easy and it can affect our psychological health and wellbeing. With the use of a client centered approach supported by evidence-based science, we can develop a plan together to help ease some of those struggles. I have extensive experience working with people from all backgrounds, ages and genders. My goal is to help my clients grow from their struggles, heal from their traumas and pain, and learn new coping strategies to move forward.
I also have training in working with clients with a history of trauma, domestic violence, suicidal ideation, and PTSD.
Life is not always easy and it can affect our psychological health and wellbeing. With the use of a client centered approach supported by evidence-based science, we can develop a plan together to help ease some of those struggles. I have extensive experience working with people from all backgrounds, ages and genders. My goal is to help my clients grow from their struggles, heal from their traumas and pain, and learn new coping strategies to move forward.
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Photo of Joshua Dunn, MEd, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Joshua Dunn
Psychologist, MEd, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5P
I specialize in treating PTSD stemming from military service, first responders, policing, sexual trauma, vehicle accidents, forms of abuse, assault, and suicide.
I am a doctoral-level psychologist who has provided psychotherapy and assessment for almost 20 years in the Alberta area. I have training in many treatment modalities; however, I mostly use Cognitive Behavioural Therapies (CBT) to address a range of issues including trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, perfectionism, grief, substance use difficulties, as well as identity and relationship struggles.
I specialize in treating PTSD stemming from military service, first responders, policing, sexual trauma, vehicle accidents, forms of abuse, assault, and suicide.
I am a doctoral-level psychologist who has provided psychotherapy and assessment for almost 20 years in the Alberta area. I have training in many treatment modalities; however, I mostly use Cognitive Behavioural Therapies (CBT) to address a range of issues including trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, perfectionism, grief, substance use difficulties, as well as identity and relationship struggles.
(587) 847-2845 View (587) 847-2845
Photo of Nicole Donovan, BA, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Nicole Donovan
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
Are you noticing that it's harder to get out of bed in the morning? or that your children are struggling to cope? I'm here to help you. I work to support children, youth, and adults with unique and diverse needs. I have a passion for working with children/youth dealing with stress, anxiety, mood disorders, bullying, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and trauma.
Are you noticing that it's harder to get out of bed in the morning? or that your children are struggling to cope? I'm here to help you. I work to support children, youth, and adults with unique and diverse needs. I have a passion for working with children/youth dealing with stress, anxiety, mood disorders, bullying, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and trauma.
(587) 608-5596 View (587) 608-5596
Photo of Marina Fanous, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Marina Fanous
Counsellor, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6W
As a therapist, one of my passions is working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, relationship issues, and suicidal ideation. Many people feel that they are alone in their struggles. I believe my role as your therapist is to remind you that you are not alone, normalize how you feel, and provide helpful tools along the way. My approach is solution focused, goal-oriented, strength-based, and trauma-informed. However, my main focus is building a strong therapeutic relationship that will help you feel safe, heard, and understood.
As a therapist, one of my passions is working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, relationship issues, and suicidal ideation. Many people feel that they are alone in their struggles. I believe my role as your therapist is to remind you that you are not alone, normalize how you feel, and provide helpful tools along the way. My approach is solution focused, goal-oriented, strength-based, and trauma-informed. However, my main focus is building a strong therapeutic relationship that will help you feel safe, heard, and understood.
(780) 666-7486 View (780) 666-7486
Photo of Lindsay McNena, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Lindsay McNena
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5T
I have 10+ years working with clients experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, school refusal, friendship concerns, navigating family relationships, suicidal ideation/self-harm, and sexual/gender identity. I have worked with adult and youth clients with these concerns, along with relationships, infidelity, and parenting. My practice also includes working with couples, polycules, and consensual non-monogamy. I feel we all have a huge capacity for resilience and learning and enjoy co-creating successful therapeutic relationships which are trauma-informed and recognize client's lived experiences.
I have 10+ years working with clients experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, school refusal, friendship concerns, navigating family relationships, suicidal ideation/self-harm, and sexual/gender identity. I have worked with adult and youth clients with these concerns, along with relationships, infidelity, and parenting. My practice also includes working with couples, polycules, and consensual non-monogamy. I feel we all have a huge capacity for resilience and learning and enjoy co-creating successful therapeutic relationships which are trauma-informed and recognize client's lived experiences.
(587) 416-1099 View (587) 416-1099
Photo of Tamara D. Gartner, RSW, MA, R, Psych, Psychologist
Tamara D. Gartner
Psychologist, RSW, MA, R, Psych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
I believe clients have the inherent ability to create change. It takes courage to step forth and request support which leads to strength and a desire to create new ways of being. Through a meaningful and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and inclusive space for clients to grow and reach their desired potential and authentic self. I provide support to individuals/families that are experiencing challenges within their lives (i.e., gender diverse clients, dysphoria, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, internalized homophobia/transphobia, coming to terms/coming out, trauma, self-harming, suicidal ideation).
I believe clients have the inherent ability to create change. It takes courage to step forth and request support which leads to strength and a desire to create new ways of being. Through a meaningful and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and inclusive space for clients to grow and reach their desired potential and authentic self. I provide support to individuals/families that are experiencing challenges within their lives (i.e., gender diverse clients, dysphoria, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, internalized homophobia/transphobia, coming to terms/coming out, trauma, self-harming, suicidal ideation).
(866) 532-1984 View (866) 532-1984
Photo of Grant M Waldman - Grant M. Waldman - Healing Works Counselling, PhD, MCP, CCC, Counsellor
Grant M. Waldman - Healing Works Counselling
Counsellor, PhD, MCP, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5A  (Online Only)
Have anxiety, depression, addiction, isolation, anger management issues, self-harm, or suicide ideation left you feeling concerned about the quality of your life? Perhaps you’ve struggled to resolve these issues on your own, to no avail? Are you ready to take 100% responsibility for your life and committed to making the necessary changes? Due to my own inter-generational trauma, I have a first-hand understanding of where you are in your life’s journey. I’d like you to know that the act of reaching out for help is a deeply courageous act, especially for most men, as most of us are conditioned to self-isolate and suffer in silence.
Have anxiety, depression, addiction, isolation, anger management issues, self-harm, or suicide ideation left you feeling concerned about the quality of your life? Perhaps you’ve struggled to resolve these issues on your own, to no avail? Are you ready to take 100% responsibility for your life and committed to making the necessary changes? Due to my own inter-generational trauma, I have a first-hand understanding of where you are in your life’s journey. I’d like you to know that the act of reaching out for help is a deeply courageous act, especially for most men, as most of us are conditioned to self-isolate and suffer in silence.
(778) 401-0761 View (778) 401-0761
Photo of Petal C Ennis (Murti) - Silverlining Psychological Services Ltd , BSc , MCPsych, Psychologist
Silverlining Psychological Services Ltd
Psychologist, BSc , MCPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5K
Counseling services in: Trauma, Addictions, Grief and Loss, Suicide, Depression, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders.
20 years ago I began work in mental health as respite care. I later completed my professional goals of becoming a psychologist. Today my focus is Trauma and Addictions with youth and adults and experience with Veterans and First Responders. From the moment we are born we search for connection, love, and a sense of belonging. Growing up, in life this journey can be fraught with struggle, trauma, pain, and loss. But there is a silver lining. Amidst adversity we find courage and authenticity. We can find acceptance and the understanding of self compassion and empathy, that leads into true connection with ourselves and others.
Counseling services in: Trauma, Addictions, Grief and Loss, Suicide, Depression, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders.
20 years ago I began work in mental health as respite care. I later completed my professional goals of becoming a psychologist. Today my focus is Trauma and Addictions with youth and adults and experience with Veterans and First Responders. From the moment we are born we search for connection, love, and a sense of belonging. Growing up, in life this journey can be fraught with struggle, trauma, pain, and loss. But there is a silver lining. Amidst adversity we find courage and authenticity. We can find acceptance and the understanding of self compassion and empathy, that leads into true connection with ourselves and others.
(587) 600-1891 View (587) 600-1891
Photo of Amelia Fluet, MACP, Psychologist
Amelia Fluet
Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6M
I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at 13 after self-harming and suicide attempts.
'Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something'- William Goldman (from The Princess Bride). All sarcasm aside, life can be painful. Not being okay can be scary, especially if no one in your support system feels comfortable talking about emotions or mental health. If you're looking for someone to talk to, you've probably gotten to the place where seeking help is less scary than staying where you are right now. I've been there. Asking for help goes against what Western society tells us: that we should be able to figure it all out on our own while also being productive. No wonder we don't like feelings.
I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at 13 after self-harming and suicide attempts.
'Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something'- William Goldman (from The Princess Bride). All sarcasm aside, life can be painful. Not being okay can be scary, especially if no one in your support system feels comfortable talking about emotions or mental health. If you're looking for someone to talk to, you've probably gotten to the place where seeking help is less scary than staying where you are right now. I've been there. Asking for help goes against what Western society tells us: that we should be able to figure it all out on our own while also being productive. No wonder we don't like feelings.
(587) 606-0287 View (587) 606-0287
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Suicidal Ideation Counsellors

How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?

Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioural therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.

Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?

Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioural, dialectical behaviour, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioural and dialectical behaviour therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.

Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?

The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?

As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.