Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Pleasanton, CA

Photo of Laura Melgosa, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Melgosa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
For close to 30 years, I have provided psychotherapy and counseling within a variety of settings to clients struggling with various life challenges. I have successfully treated clients both in short-term and long-term therapy. In addition to providing individual and family therapy, my special interests and extensive experience involves working with teenagers and couples. I have substantial experience with crisis intervention/prevention issues including: depression & suicide, grief & loss, infidelity, child abuse, domestic violence, and substance abuse/dependency.
For close to 30 years, I have provided psychotherapy and counseling within a variety of settings to clients struggling with various life challenges. I have successfully treated clients both in short-term and long-term therapy. In addition to providing individual and family therapy, my special interests and extensive experience involves working with teenagers and couples. I have substantial experience with crisis intervention/prevention issues including: depression & suicide, grief & loss, infidelity, child abuse, domestic violence, and substance abuse/dependency.
(925) 273-7293 View (925) 273-7293
Photo of Leslie Summerfield, LMFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Summerfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I work with individuals, teens, couples, and families who are dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief, loss, domestic abuse, trauma, family conflict, change and transition, and work-related stress.
Seeking therapy usually stems from a desire to feel better and to explore what is going on in your life presently or to understand past experiences more fully. One of my favorite sayings is, “Finding the right therapist is an important first step towards your journey of healing and growth. My approach to therapy is client-centered and solution-based. My therapeutic approach is direct, active, empathetic, and non-judgmental and I tailor my work to the style, goals, and comfort level of each client. I draw upon complimentary therapeutic methodologies, including Cognitive Based Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I work with individuals, teens, couples, and families who are dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief, loss, domestic abuse, trauma, family conflict, change and transition, and work-related stress.
Seeking therapy usually stems from a desire to feel better and to explore what is going on in your life presently or to understand past experiences more fully. One of my favorite sayings is, “Finding the right therapist is an important first step towards your journey of healing and growth. My approach to therapy is client-centered and solution-based. My therapeutic approach is direct, active, empathetic, and non-judgmental and I tailor my work to the style, goals, and comfort level of each client. I draw upon complimentary therapeutic methodologies, including Cognitive Based Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(925) 940-3460 View (925) 940-3460
Photo of Nicole Manning, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nicole Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
As I neared retirement, I found a new passion and ultimately developed a new purpose to help others who are struggling with suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Hello and Welcome! I received a Master of Science degree in Psychology but upon graduating, I learned that my true passion was to become a clinician. And so, I returned to school and obtained a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (2024). I work with a variety of clients that includes children, adolescents, adults, and families. I think that it is important to build a rapport and then I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment so that we can begin your therapeutic journey. I am a firm believer in setting short- and-long term goals. In addition, I will help you find the time (and the energy) for self-care.
As I neared retirement, I found a new passion and ultimately developed a new purpose to help others who are struggling with suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Hello and Welcome! I received a Master of Science degree in Psychology but upon graduating, I learned that my true passion was to become a clinician. And so, I returned to school and obtained a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (2024). I work with a variety of clients that includes children, adolescents, adults, and families. I think that it is important to build a rapport and then I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment so that we can begin your therapeutic journey. I am a firm believer in setting short- and-long term goals. In addition, I will help you find the time (and the energy) for self-care.
(925) 397-2242 View (925) 397-2242
Photo of Joey Pham, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joey Pham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
With over 10 years of experience, I have dealt with a wide range of concerns including family discord, identity crisis, suicidal ideation, addiction, trauma, and chronic illnesses such as Bipolar, Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Psychotic Disorders, and substance use disorders.
At times, life provides us with the opportunities that enable us to grow and accomplish. However, at times it also presents itself in the form of a challenge. These life events can take a toll on our mental health and leave us feeling despair, unmotivated, and lost. My primary goal is to help clients regain their sense of purpose, strength, and dignity. I utilize person-centered and humanistic perspective and see each client as unique and capable. I see my clients as partners who work together through a positive and strength-based approach.
With over 10 years of experience, I have dealt with a wide range of concerns including family discord, identity crisis, suicidal ideation, addiction, trauma, and chronic illnesses such as Bipolar, Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Psychotic Disorders, and substance use disorders.
At times, life provides us with the opportunities that enable us to grow and accomplish. However, at times it also presents itself in the form of a challenge. These life events can take a toll on our mental health and leave us feeling despair, unmotivated, and lost. My primary goal is to help clients regain their sense of purpose, strength, and dignity. I utilize person-centered and humanistic perspective and see each client as unique and capable. I see my clients as partners who work together through a positive and strength-based approach.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Ashley Wilson-Dixon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Wilson-Dixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include trauma, mood disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, as well as high-risk situations like suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I'm Dr. Ashley Wilson-Dixon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a PhD in psychology. I specialize in trauma-informed care, using evidence-based practices to provide personalized interventions for children, teens, adults (including young adults), and families. My approach integrates holistic and transpersonal methods to foster healing and growth.
My areas of expertise include trauma, mood disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, as well as high-risk situations like suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I'm Dr. Ashley Wilson-Dixon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a PhD in psychology. I specialize in trauma-informed care, using evidence-based practices to provide personalized interventions for children, teens, adults (including young adults), and families. My approach integrates holistic and transpersonal methods to foster healing and growth.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Kimberly Mackay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Mackay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Kim Mackay and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 9 years' experience providing mental health services. I have extensive training and experience in cognitive-behavioral approaches (DBT, ACT, CBT), suicide risk assessment, crisis intervention, trauma-focused therapy (EMDR, DBT for Complex PTSD, Seeking Safety), and attachment-based family therapy. My passion is supporting and guiding individual families in exploring underlying core issues and intergenerational trauma to break cycles impacting mental health.
Hi there! My name is Kim Mackay and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 9 years' experience providing mental health services. I have extensive training and experience in cognitive-behavioral approaches (DBT, ACT, CBT), suicide risk assessment, crisis intervention, trauma-focused therapy (EMDR, DBT for Complex PTSD, Seeking Safety), and attachment-based family therapy. My passion is supporting and guiding individual families in exploring underlying core issues and intergenerational trauma to break cycles impacting mental health.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Lauren Muecke, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Muecke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients who have experienced anxiety, depression, family conflict, interpersonal conflict, trauma, abuse, substance use, psychosis, suicidal thoughts, homicidal thoughts, self-harm, bullying, and relationship issues.
My name is Lauren Muecke, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based out of San Diego, California. I have worked in both outpatient settings and crisis intervention settings supporting clients in their mental health and substance use experiences. I have several years of experience working with children, teens, adolescents, and their parents with individual and family therapy sessions. I have worked with all ages in the lifespan in crisis intervention settings. My approach to therapy will vary based on each client's unique presentation and therapy goals.
I have worked with clients who have experienced anxiety, depression, family conflict, interpersonal conflict, trauma, abuse, substance use, psychosis, suicidal thoughts, homicidal thoughts, self-harm, bullying, and relationship issues.
My name is Lauren Muecke, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based out of San Diego, California. I have worked in both outpatient settings and crisis intervention settings supporting clients in their mental health and substance use experiences. I have several years of experience working with children, teens, adolescents, and their parents with individual and family therapy sessions. I have worked with all ages in the lifespan in crisis intervention settings. My approach to therapy will vary based on each client's unique presentation and therapy goals.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Ginger Moyer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ginger Moyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping individuals with depression, anxiety, self-harm thoughts and/or behaviors, suicidal ideations, trauma.
Hello, my name is Ginger Moyer I am an LMFT. Therapy comes from the heart with me as this is my passion. There is no one size fits all so our sessions will be tailored to your individual needs. I create a comfortable relaxed atmosphere. I make therapy feel like a conversation, not therapy.
I am passionate about helping individuals with depression, anxiety, self-harm thoughts and/or behaviors, suicidal ideations, trauma.
Hello, my name is Ginger Moyer I am an LMFT. Therapy comes from the heart with me as this is my passion. There is no one size fits all so our sessions will be tailored to your individual needs. I create a comfortable relaxed atmosphere. I make therapy feel like a conversation, not therapy.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Trevor Hurley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trevor Hurley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Trevor Hurley and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My goal is to provide a space for you to raise your awareness of patterns of maladaptive thoughts or behaviors that are causing you harm. With this insight, you will have an opportunity to create positive change and move towards restoring your fundamental peace. The theoretical frameworks that inform my approach are client-centered, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral therapies.
Hello. My name is Trevor Hurley and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My goal is to provide a space for you to raise your awareness of patterns of maladaptive thoughts or behaviors that are causing you harm. With this insight, you will have an opportunity to create positive change and move towards restoring your fundamental peace. The theoretical frameworks that inform my approach are client-centered, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral therapies.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Nadia Ali Loewe, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nadia Ali Loewe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Feeling hopeless, sad, or overwhelmed? Helping others live a better and happier life is my passion. I work in an empathetic, collaborative, and thoughtful way with each individual or family unit. I start with understanding where you are now and help put a plan in place to help you. I offer a custom approach for each of my clients because I believe everyone is different. I believe being a good listener is important and I want to help everyone achieve their goals. It is important to work together so we can achieve your goals. I also worked years in schools so I have in depth experience working with children of all ages.
Feeling hopeless, sad, or overwhelmed? Helping others live a better and happier life is my passion. I work in an empathetic, collaborative, and thoughtful way with each individual or family unit. I start with understanding where you are now and help put a plan in place to help you. I offer a custom approach for each of my clients because I believe everyone is different. I believe being a good listener is important and I want to help everyone achieve their goals. It is important to work together so we can achieve your goals. I also worked years in schools so I have in depth experience working with children of all ages.
(925) 319-6432 View (925) 319-6432
Photo of Leslie Baker - Therapy2Thrive, NCC, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Therapy2Thrive
Marriage & Family Therapist, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Are you feeling alone, overwhelmed & lacking hope in your life? Are you just making it through the day....staying in your marriage, tolerating your teens or hiding in your work and wondering "How did I get here?" Therapy2Thrive Ruby Hill Counseling Center, Inc. is here to help. We provide clients with a therapeutic relationship that provides thoughtful, caring counseling building trust and hope for healing. We work with our clients with practical research based counseling skills and interventions to assist you in making choices that lead to more joy and less distress.
Are you feeling alone, overwhelmed & lacking hope in your life? Are you just making it through the day....staying in your marriage, tolerating your teens or hiding in your work and wondering "How did I get here?" Therapy2Thrive Ruby Hill Counseling Center, Inc. is here to help. We provide clients with a therapeutic relationship that provides thoughtful, caring counseling building trust and hope for healing. We work with our clients with practical research based counseling skills and interventions to assist you in making choices that lead to more joy and less distress.
(925) 392-0490 View (925) 392-0490
Photo of Dr. Christine E. Dickson: Board Certified Psychologist, PhD, MS, MA, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Christine E. Dickson: Board Certified Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, MS, MA, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Unlike traditional therapy that focuses on the past, we focus on the present and take action to change unproductive thought patterns, manage your emotions, and modify unhealthy habits. With over 25 years experience as a mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapist, I help you take control of your mind rather than let your mind take control of you. Learning to find the off button in your mind and no longer reacting to every thought and feeling is priceless. Nearly 33,000 people worldwide follow my blog to learn my approach. Visit christinedickson.com to learn more.
Unlike traditional therapy that focuses on the past, we focus on the present and take action to change unproductive thought patterns, manage your emotions, and modify unhealthy habits. With over 25 years experience as a mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapist, I help you take control of your mind rather than let your mind take control of you. Learning to find the off button in your mind and no longer reacting to every thought and feeling is priceless. Nearly 33,000 people worldwide follow my blog to learn my approach. Visit christinedickson.com to learn more.
(925) 521-8785 View (925) 521-8785
Photo of Melissa Ruiz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Ruiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I am a licensed marriage & family therapist with a genuine desire to help others.My approach to therapy begins with deep compassion toward each person's unique circumstances and story. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-love, being a highly sensitive person or having difficulty adjusting to change or life events, I strive to provide a non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe and comfortable to express yourself in an honest way. I also believe in a holistic, mind-body approach to treatment and often encourage integrating nutrition, functional medicine and natural approaches in order to optimally heal.
I am a licensed marriage & family therapist with a genuine desire to help others.My approach to therapy begins with deep compassion toward each person's unique circumstances and story. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-love, being a highly sensitive person or having difficulty adjusting to change or life events, I strive to provide a non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe and comfortable to express yourself in an honest way. I also believe in a holistic, mind-body approach to treatment and often encourage integrating nutrition, functional medicine and natural approaches in order to optimally heal.
(925) 403-4742 View (925) 403-4742
Photo of Kelly Shah, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Change comes from within, my role as a therapist is to join with clients on their journey to discovering and utilizing their own resources of strength to achieve overall emotional well-being. Serving as a compassionate other, I apply myself from a mindful, strengths-based and trauma-informed lens to work with clients on developing a meaningful process of being and healing. With a passion for and dedication to fostering authentic relationships with clients and a strong belief in the powers of human resiliency, I provide a safe, open, non-judgmental space of healing.
Change comes from within, my role as a therapist is to join with clients on their journey to discovering and utilizing their own resources of strength to achieve overall emotional well-being. Serving as a compassionate other, I apply myself from a mindful, strengths-based and trauma-informed lens to work with clients on developing a meaningful process of being and healing. With a passion for and dedication to fostering authentic relationships with clients and a strong belief in the powers of human resiliency, I provide a safe, open, non-judgmental space of healing.
(530) 994-6428 View (530) 994-6428
Photo of Mary Deggelman, MA, LMFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Deggelman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I am licensed in both the states of CA. and WA. My goal is to facilitate the process of innate healing and self-discovery for individuals and families seeking to improve their overall quality of life. I am a firm believer that obstacles may be turned into opportunities. Through both curious questioning and active listening, together we may illuminate your strengths and opportunity areas of growth. My objective is that after our first session, you will feel that we have a pathway for a desired solution. I have worked with ages ranging from 5 to 85 years young. I treat each individual, couple, or family with respect and warmth.
I am licensed in both the states of CA. and WA. My goal is to facilitate the process of innate healing and self-discovery for individuals and families seeking to improve their overall quality of life. I am a firm believer that obstacles may be turned into opportunities. Through both curious questioning and active listening, together we may illuminate your strengths and opportunity areas of growth. My objective is that after our first session, you will feel that we have a pathway for a desired solution. I have worked with ages ranging from 5 to 85 years young. I treat each individual, couple, or family with respect and warmth.
(510) 662-0838 View (510) 662-0838
Photo of Grayce Marie Stratton, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist
Grayce Marie Stratton
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Accessing hope, grounding, greater energy, and newfound peace are my specialities and passion, and I assist the patient to take charge in finding harmony and illuminating a vibrant life. Working creatively and eclectically, I emphasize psychophysiology and integrative modalities, the medical end of psychology in my practice, Lifetime Development in Pleasanton, California. Assessing carefully the unique strengths and needs of each child, adolescent, and adult who calls, my goal is to assist clients to become more masterful in their lives at every age. Using the lens of in-depth traditional psychotherapeutic knowledge, I aim for faster outcomes than those possible with "talk therapy" alone.
Accessing hope, grounding, greater energy, and newfound peace are my specialities and passion, and I assist the patient to take charge in finding harmony and illuminating a vibrant life. Working creatively and eclectically, I emphasize psychophysiology and integrative modalities, the medical end of psychology in my practice, Lifetime Development in Pleasanton, California. Assessing carefully the unique strengths and needs of each child, adolescent, and adult who calls, my goal is to assist clients to become more masterful in their lives at every age. Using the lens of in-depth traditional psychotherapeutic knowledge, I aim for faster outcomes than those possible with "talk therapy" alone.
(925) 462-2123 View (925) 462-2123
Photo of Annie Chen - Annie Chen - Therapy2Thrive RHCC, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Annie Chen - Therapy2Thrive RHCC
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
With cross-cultural living and working experiences, I enjoy working with children, teens, and their parents to help address developmental challenges, relationship conflicts, emotional struggles, behavioral difficulties, and other mental health issues that they may encounter in daily life. I deeply believes that childhood experiences and parent-child relationships could play an extremely important role in one’s personal development and, by helping to build a secure enough emotional bond among family members, can create a power of healing throughout everyone’s life.
With cross-cultural living and working experiences, I enjoy working with children, teens, and their parents to help address developmental challenges, relationship conflicts, emotional struggles, behavioral difficulties, and other mental health issues that they may encounter in daily life. I deeply believes that childhood experiences and parent-child relationships could play an extremely important role in one’s personal development and, by helping to build a secure enough emotional bond among family members, can create a power of healing throughout everyone’s life.
(925) 308-5397 View (925) 308-5397
Photo of Jennifer Sharples, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Sharples
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I am an eclectic psychologist who utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy along with analytical psychology and Family Systems therapy to treat a wide range of problems. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples to help you resolve your issues and become able to live up to your true potential. I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and also have studied some Analytical Psychology by taking courses at the C.G. Jung Institute in San Francisco. I have over 20 years in the field of psychotherapy and have helped people deal with depression, anxiety, career issues, relationship problems and existential issues.
I am an eclectic psychologist who utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy along with analytical psychology and Family Systems therapy to treat a wide range of problems. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples to help you resolve your issues and become able to live up to your true potential. I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and also have studied some Analytical Psychology by taking courses at the C.G. Jung Institute in San Francisco. I have over 20 years in the field of psychotherapy and have helped people deal with depression, anxiety, career issues, relationship problems and existential issues.
(925) 892-3004 View (925) 892-3004
Photo of Valerie Souza, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Souza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
You are the expert of your life! Utilizing an "eclectic" approach, I will draw from an array of psychological orientations to help you recognize and move past obstacles standing between you and your contentment; which will enable you to experience more fulfilling relationships. I'm a "compassionate soul" with great listening skills, although my style is "active" and I frequently utilize Cognitive Behavioral tools and techniques to help you challenge your thinking, reduce your anxiety, and to encourage you to take advantage of the full spectrum of thinking and being.
You are the expert of your life! Utilizing an "eclectic" approach, I will draw from an array of psychological orientations to help you recognize and move past obstacles standing between you and your contentment; which will enable you to experience more fulfilling relationships. I'm a "compassionate soul" with great listening skills, although my style is "active" and I frequently utilize Cognitive Behavioral tools and techniques to help you challenge your thinking, reduce your anxiety, and to encourage you to take advantage of the full spectrum of thinking and being.
(925) 291-4411 View (925) 291-4411
Photo of Linda J Liu, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda J Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
At times we can feel overwhelmed with fear and anxiety or stuck in life patterns that do not allow us to access the life we had hoped for.  Part of the "stuckness" can come from past experiences and perspectives we learned from an early age.  Part of it can come from current experiences that leave us feeling lost, afraid, or like we have no control.
At times we can feel overwhelmed with fear and anxiety or stuck in life patterns that do not allow us to access the life we had hoped for.  Part of the "stuckness" can come from past experiences and perspectives we learned from an early age.  Part of it can come from current experiences that leave us feeling lost, afraid, or like we have no control.
(925) 350-4666 View (925) 350-4666
Suicidal Ideation Therapists

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 behavioral 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 behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior 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.