Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Nathan Hicks, RSW, MSW, BSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Nathan Hicks
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I am well-versed in crisis management, emotional dysregulation, suicidal ideation, and family conflict.
I believe it takes a great deal of courage and self-regard for someone to say they need help and reaching out is a powerful (albeit terrifying) first step towards positive change. I understand addressing personal concerns is not a perfect process and will include setbacks, but healing through past/present issues is like writing a book: you have to go through a few drafts before you're satisfied with the result. My approach is to meet you in your current stage of life and help identify personal strengths you can use as needed. You can expect a warm, empathetic approach with questions and comments about the present issue.
I am well-versed in crisis management, emotional dysregulation, suicidal ideation, and family conflict.
I believe it takes a great deal of courage and self-regard for someone to say they need help and reaching out is a powerful (albeit terrifying) first step towards positive change. I understand addressing personal concerns is not a perfect process and will include setbacks, but healing through past/present issues is like writing a book: you have to go through a few drafts before you're satisfied with the result. My approach is to meet you in your current stage of life and help identify personal strengths you can use as needed. You can expect a warm, empathetic approach with questions and comments about the present issue.
(343) 633-4062 View (343) 633-4062
Photo of Janelle Massicotte, MA, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Janelle Massicotte
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G
I also welcome and help support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, self-harm, burnout and many more.
Reaching out for support for your mental health can sometimes feel intimidating and overwhelming. It is the first step of something big, the beginning of a journey towards positive change. My warm and empathetic personality has guided me to always being kind and open minded, creating a safe and inclusive space for all.
I also welcome and help support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, self-harm, burnout and many more.
Reaching out for support for your mental health can sometimes feel intimidating and overwhelming. It is the first step of something big, the beginning of a journey towards positive change. My warm and empathetic personality has guided me to always being kind and open minded, creating a safe and inclusive space for all.
(343) 453-7938 View (343) 453-7938
Photo of Diana Eisenfeld, MC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Diana Eisenfeld
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
I work with children, youth and adults. Some of my areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, identity and self-understanding, ADD/ADHD, and trauma (PTSD). I also have experience working with people who struggle with addictions, suicide ideation, and self-harm. My work perspective is based on the Strengths Model, which means that I believe that once we understand the root of our weaknesses, we can turn them into strengths. In addition, my approach is informed by the Narrative and Attachment Theory models, tailored to the specific needs of the person and/or family.
I work with children, youth and adults. Some of my areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, identity and self-understanding, ADD/ADHD, and trauma (PTSD). I also have experience working with people who struggle with addictions, suicide ideation, and self-harm. My work perspective is based on the Strengths Model, which means that I believe that once we understand the root of our weaknesses, we can turn them into strengths. In addition, my approach is informed by the Narrative and Attachment Theory models, tailored to the specific needs of the person and/or family.
(613) 707-6725 View (613) 707-6725
Photo of Jeff Hedderson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jeff Hedderson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm behaviours, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, coping with stress, and trauma-related issues.
Life can sometimes become overwhelming and people can benefit from a safe, open space to share their stories and receive support. Counselling and psychotherapy are services delivered through a therapeutic relationship with someone who is trained to support others. Some benefits to engaging in counselling and psychotherapy are: finding ways to solve problems, improving your self-esteem, practicing new and more positive behaviours, learning to manage emotions from stressors, developing a greater degree of self-awareness, learning to love and accept yourself, and improving your overall well-being.
I have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm behaviours, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, coping with stress, and trauma-related issues.
Life can sometimes become overwhelming and people can benefit from a safe, open space to share their stories and receive support. Counselling and psychotherapy are services delivered through a therapeutic relationship with someone who is trained to support others. Some benefits to engaging in counselling and psychotherapy are: finding ways to solve problems, improving your self-esteem, practicing new and more positive behaviours, learning to manage emotions from stressors, developing a greater degree of self-awareness, learning to love and accept yourself, and improving your overall well-being.
(613) 702-2422 View (613) 702-2422
Photo of Meghan Billings, PhD(c), MA, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Meghan Billings
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD(c), MA, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
If you are facing challenges in your life and want to process or explore feelings, or just need to talk, I am here to listen without judgment. We will work together to navigate the circumstances and events of your life, create therapeutic goals, and engage with your resources. Ultimately, you will develop practices and skills to help you gain new insights and foster healing. I tend to use a client-centred, trauma-informed, and inclusive approach to therapy with a focus on "parts work". I have worked with diverse clients of all ages on experiences of anxiety, depression, relationships, suicide, parenting, crisis, trauma, and more.
If you are facing challenges in your life and want to process or explore feelings, or just need to talk, I am here to listen without judgment. We will work together to navigate the circumstances and events of your life, create therapeutic goals, and engage with your resources. Ultimately, you will develop practices and skills to help you gain new insights and foster healing. I tend to use a client-centred, trauma-informed, and inclusive approach to therapy with a focus on "parts work". I have worked with diverse clients of all ages on experiences of anxiety, depression, relationships, suicide, parenting, crisis, trauma, and more.
(343) 312-7416 View (343) 312-7416
Photo of Maaike de Graaf, MSc, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Maaike de Graaf
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
(613) 704-4176 View (613) 704-4176
Photo of Sarahlynn Deschamps - Brown Counselling - Sarahlynn Deschamps, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Brown Counselling - Sarahlynn Deschamps
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1C
Together, we have worked through betrayal trauma(s), complex PTSD, emotional intelligence, insecure attachment(s), complex intrapersonal relationship, suicidal ideation(s), parasuicidal behaviour(s), and grief and loss.
Brown Counselling and Therapy Services is a team of qualified therapists who are passionate about working alongside you to provide the tools to help you navigate through life's up and downs. I’m proud of you for investing in yourself and for being ready to explore your options in therapy. Welcome to a safe place for your story to land. Being a part of your journey is a privilege, and our therapeutic alliance will be mutually grounded in honesty, trust, and communication. Being present with you at any moment, I will encourage you to recognize your diverse strengths.
Together, we have worked through betrayal trauma(s), complex PTSD, emotional intelligence, insecure attachment(s), complex intrapersonal relationship, suicidal ideation(s), parasuicidal behaviour(s), and grief and loss.
Brown Counselling and Therapy Services is a team of qualified therapists who are passionate about working alongside you to provide the tools to help you navigate through life's up and downs. I’m proud of you for investing in yourself and for being ready to explore your options in therapy. Welcome to a safe place for your story to land. Being a part of your journey is a privilege, and our therapeutic alliance will be mutually grounded in honesty, trust, and communication. Being present with you at any moment, I will encourage you to recognize your diverse strengths.
(343) 309-9160 View (343) 309-9160
Photo of Lucie Brandt, MA, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lucie Brandt
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
Welcome to Lucie Brandt Psychotherapy Services. Since I began my practice in 2010, my areas of focus have included: work stress, depression, anxiety, burnout, single & multiple incident traumas, accidents on work sites, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, medical trauma, serious or terminal illness, fertility stress, pregnancy loss, physical & emotional violence, cultural and systemic traumas. I work with grief, including the impacts of a sudden death, the death of a child, suicide, homicide. I work with people who have been in conflict zones, military clients, war veterans. I work with friends & survivors of MMIWG and of the Indian
Welcome to Lucie Brandt Psychotherapy Services. Since I began my practice in 2010, my areas of focus have included: work stress, depression, anxiety, burnout, single & multiple incident traumas, accidents on work sites, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, medical trauma, serious or terminal illness, fertility stress, pregnancy loss, physical & emotional violence, cultural and systemic traumas. I work with grief, including the impacts of a sudden death, the death of a child, suicide, homicide. I work with people who have been in conflict zones, military clients, war veterans. I work with friends & survivors of MMIWG and of the Indian
(343) 306-4485 View (343) 306-4485
Photo of Julie Ketel, MCAT, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Julie Ketel
Registered Psychotherapist, MCAT, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1H
Waitlist for new clients
As a Registered Psychotherapist, Julie works primarily with teens and adults. She supports clients in navigating a variety of challenges, of which include anxiety, trauma, suicide ideation, self-harm, relational conflict, grief, and low self-worth.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, Julie works primarily with teens and adults. She supports clients in navigating a variety of challenges, of which include anxiety, trauma, suicide ideation, self-harm, relational conflict, grief, and low self-worth.
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Photo of Melissa Philpott, MSW,, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Melissa Philpott
Registered Social Worker, MSW,, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
I have additional training to support individuals with Disorder Eating/Eating Disorders, substance use/harm reduction, suicide intervention and sexual violence.
My work is guided by curiosity, connection and is rooted in values of authentic collaboration. My therapeutic foundations are rooted within relational, client-directed, strengths perspective, trauma-informed, feminist and structural frameworks. With a deep sense of compassion and respect, I seek to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space that facilitates self-awareness, healing and growth. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to untangle patterns that are serving you, and patterns you may be interested in moving beyond.
I have additional training to support individuals with Disorder Eating/Eating Disorders, substance use/harm reduction, suicide intervention and sexual violence.
My work is guided by curiosity, connection and is rooted in values of authentic collaboration. My therapeutic foundations are rooted within relational, client-directed, strengths perspective, trauma-informed, feminist and structural frameworks. With a deep sense of compassion and respect, I seek to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space that facilitates self-awareness, healing and growth. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to untangle patterns that are serving you, and patterns you may be interested in moving beyond.
(613) 416-3631 View (613) 416-3631
Photo of Julia Maiorino, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Julia Maiorino
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
It is my goal to provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental and honest environment where they can feel most comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions and troubles. Much of my experience comes from working in mental health at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults as they develop the courage to explore their vulnerabilities on their journey towards wellness and fulfilment. My experience has allowed me to develop skills in working with depression, anxiety, grief, issues related to sexuality, emotional regulation, social fears and phobias, self-esteem and suicidal ideation.
It is my goal to provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental and honest environment where they can feel most comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions and troubles. Much of my experience comes from working in mental health at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults as they develop the courage to explore their vulnerabilities on their journey towards wellness and fulfilment. My experience has allowed me to develop skills in working with depression, anxiety, grief, issues related to sexuality, emotional regulation, social fears and phobias, self-esteem and suicidal ideation.
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Photo of Nate Venema - Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E  (Online Only)
I have training and experience in multiple modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, suicide and crisis de-escalation, and trauma-informed care.
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
I have training and experience in multiple modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, suicide and crisis de-escalation, and trauma-informed care.
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
(343) 805-0202 View (343) 805-0202
Photo of Brooke Willis, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brooke Willis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
My focus as a therapist has been trauma, abuse, interpersonal relationships, depression, suicide intervention, and services for first responders.
The world can be a dark and heavy place, and that's why I believe kindness, compassion, and hope are so important. I try to bring all of these values to my practice as a therapist, where I will strive to connect with you by cheering on your personal growth, sitting with you in the dark, and listening to your story. We will work together to help you achieve your goals and gain confidence. I offer a listening ear, tools and advice, and a safe-place where you can lay it all out and trust that you will be treated with honour and respect.
My focus as a therapist has been trauma, abuse, interpersonal relationships, depression, suicide intervention, and services for first responders.
The world can be a dark and heavy place, and that's why I believe kindness, compassion, and hope are so important. I try to bring all of these values to my practice as a therapist, where I will strive to connect with you by cheering on your personal growth, sitting with you in the dark, and listening to your story. We will work together to help you achieve your goals and gain confidence. I offer a listening ear, tools and advice, and a safe-place where you can lay it all out and trust that you will be treated with honour and respect.
(807) 500-0676 View (807) 500-0676
Photo of Aaron Thomas Smith, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Aaron Thomas Smith
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
I appreciate the commonly held belief that one can only fix their problems on their own; but, I applaud you for believing that therapy can help you better understand yourself and your difficulties, and provide the appropriate tools to manage your problems! I have foremost experience in working with couples, anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal ideations, interpersonal, sexual and trauma-related challenges. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with issues in their home environment, be it loneliness, neglect or abuse.
I appreciate the commonly held belief that one can only fix their problems on their own; but, I applaud you for believing that therapy can help you better understand yourself and your difficulties, and provide the appropriate tools to manage your problems! I have foremost experience in working with couples, anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal ideations, interpersonal, sexual and trauma-related challenges. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with issues in their home environment, be it loneliness, neglect or abuse.
(613) 777-0048 View (613) 777-0048
Photo of Dianna Ilk, MFA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Dianna Ilk
Registered Psychotherapist, MFA, MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A
I have worked for many decades as a suicide and crisis counsellor, a visual artist and professor, and a parent.
Accepting New Clients. When you find yourself going through a life transition, feeling anxious or depressed, or grieving a loss, you might feel confused and overwhelmed. Often our thoughts and feelings get tangled with expectations leaving us unsure about how to move forward in our lives. Together we will explore what is working for you and what parts of your self are being challenged. By developing greater self-awareness and practicing self-acceptance, you will begin to discover new ways to grow and strengthen as a person. When you know yourself better you can begin to intercept unhealthy patterns of living as they emerge.
I have worked for many decades as a suicide and crisis counsellor, a visual artist and professor, and a parent.
Accepting New Clients. When you find yourself going through a life transition, feeling anxious or depressed, or grieving a loss, you might feel confused and overwhelmed. Often our thoughts and feelings get tangled with expectations leaving us unsure about how to move forward in our lives. Together we will explore what is working for you and what parts of your self are being challenged. By developing greater self-awareness and practicing self-acceptance, you will begin to discover new ways to grow and strengthen as a person. When you know yourself better you can begin to intercept unhealthy patterns of living as they emerge.
(343) 307-5663 View (343) 307-5663
Photo of Marria Kennedy - andtherapy  (DBT), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
andtherapy (DBT)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no). We also offer trauma treatment through Prolonged Exposure-DBT and/or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because many of the current day experiences, emotions & views of the world, are based on previous experiences.
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no). We also offer trauma treatment through Prolonged Exposure-DBT and/or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because many of the current day experiences, emotions & views of the world, are based on previous experiences.
(437) 747-6361 View (437) 747-6361
Photo of Mavra Wasim, MA, HBSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Mavra Wasim
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, HBSc
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
I'm a neurodiverse therapist looking to support Individuals (15+) facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, cognitive disabilities, culture or faith-based struggles, life transitions, stress, trauma (culturally-specific, childhood, racial, religious, PTSD), self-esteem issues, LGBTQ2+ struggles, mood and personality disorders and suicidal ideation. With empathy and cultural sensitivity, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your experiences. I'm here to help cultivate self-compassion, empowering individuals to nurture a kind and accepting relationship with themselves.
I'm a neurodiverse therapist looking to support Individuals (15+) facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, cognitive disabilities, culture or faith-based struggles, life transitions, stress, trauma (culturally-specific, childhood, racial, religious, PTSD), self-esteem issues, LGBTQ2+ struggles, mood and personality disorders and suicidal ideation. With empathy and cultural sensitivity, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your experiences. I'm here to help cultivate self-compassion, empowering individuals to nurture a kind and accepting relationship with themselves.
(437) 291-8062 View (437) 291-8062
Photo of Nancy Galway - Dara Counselling and Wellness, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Dara Counselling and Wellness
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1A
Trauma occurs many ways – abuse, accidents, divorce, death and it can suck the life right out of you. Maybe you’ve had sleepless nights and restless mornings and it does not feel worth it to get out of bed. Maybe you've thought of harming yourself or possibly had suicidal thoughts. Trauma can affect all parts of your life; your relationships, your ability to work, your ability to feel safe and happy. Sometimes you feel like all is well and that you have dealt with it. You feel fine and 6 months later it feels like it just happened, It is possible to get your life back. Reach out, I can help.
Trauma occurs many ways – abuse, accidents, divorce, death and it can suck the life right out of you. Maybe you’ve had sleepless nights and restless mornings and it does not feel worth it to get out of bed. Maybe you've thought of harming yourself or possibly had suicidal thoughts. Trauma can affect all parts of your life; your relationships, your ability to work, your ability to feel safe and happy. Sometimes you feel like all is well and that you have dealt with it. You feel fine and 6 months later it feels like it just happened, It is possible to get your life back. Reach out, I can help.
(709) 400-9899 View (709) 400-9899
Photo of Tracy Thomson - Tracy Thomson Counselling & Psychotherapy, MA, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Tracy Thomson Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1P
I also specialize in multicultural issues, parental issues, and have received training in suicide prevention.
I see my role as a facilitator. I facilitate hope, growth, and strength in my clients as I encourage their development towards a clearer understanding of self. With a clearer self understanding, one can move in the direction of greater well-being and a happier, more fulfilled and content life. I walk with you in your discovery of finding your inner-resources and inner-peace. Additionally, I provide online sessions with clients who live within Ontario.
I also specialize in multicultural issues, parental issues, and have received training in suicide prevention.
I see my role as a facilitator. I facilitate hope, growth, and strength in my clients as I encourage their development towards a clearer understanding of self. With a clearer self understanding, one can move in the direction of greater well-being and a happier, more fulfilled and content life. I walk with you in your discovery of finding your inner-resources and inner-peace. Additionally, I provide online sessions with clients who live within Ontario.
(613) 402-9002 View (613) 402-9002
Photo of Parul Shah - Embracing Empowerment Counselling Services, MSP, RSW, CCPA, DocCan
Embracing Empowerment Counselling Services
MSP, RSW, CCPA, DocCan
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2S
Parul Shah, is the Founder/ Psychotherapist/Registered Social Worker of Embracing Empowerment Counselling Services (EECS). Parul Shah is under the regulatory body of OCSWSSW since 2002. Parul Shah is a First Responder family member for over 22 years. Areas of specific niches are: PTSD/Trauma; Complex Trauma, suicidal ideation; workplace trauma; and any other form trauma. Demographics we deal with are First Responders, First Responder families, Frontline workers, NHL players, sports athletes, students & anyone between the ages of 11 to 65. We continue to provide clinical supervision for clinicians & in 2025 for Grad students.
Parul Shah, is the Founder/ Psychotherapist/Registered Social Worker of Embracing Empowerment Counselling Services (EECS). Parul Shah is under the regulatory body of OCSWSSW since 2002. Parul Shah is a First Responder family member for over 22 years. Areas of specific niches are: PTSD/Trauma; Complex Trauma, suicidal ideation; workplace trauma; and any other form trauma. Demographics we deal with are First Responders, First Responder families, Frontline workers, NHL players, sports athletes, students & anyone between the ages of 11 to 65. We continue to provide clinical supervision for clinicians & in 2025 for Grad students.
(613) 986-6737 View (613) 986-6737
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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.