Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Dr. William Hutter, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. William Hutter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654  (Online Only)
Are you part of the queer community and looking for a queer therapist? Good news, you may have found a match. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families, on a variety of topics and issues, such as consensual/ethical non-monogamous relationships, persons struggling with sexual/sexuality and gender issues, personality disorders, suicidal ideation and addictions. I have lived in various parts of the US, as well as abroad, and enjoy working with persons from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds who now residing in the US.
Are you part of the queer community and looking for a queer therapist? Good news, you may have found a match. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families, on a variety of topics and issues, such as consensual/ethical non-monogamous relationships, persons struggling with sexual/sexuality and gender issues, personality disorders, suicidal ideation and addictions. I have lived in various parts of the US, as well as abroad, and enjoy working with persons from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds who now residing in the US.
(608) 567-3509 View (608) 567-3509
Photo of Afsheen Zuberi - Brightside Health, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(708) 332-1857 View (708) 332-1857
Photo of Lauren Barris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Barris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I am a Linehan Board Certified DBT Therapist, and have been practicing DBT since 2015. I work with teens, young adults, and adults, specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, complex trauma, and management of high-risk, self-harming, and suicidal behaviors. I integrate mindfulness, acceptance, and change strategies within a collaborative environment to help my clients reach their goals. Often, people living with BPD have suffered numerous traumas and invalidations throughout their lives; by offering DBT I strive to help these and other individuals be understood and respected so that we can work toward change together.
I am a Linehan Board Certified DBT Therapist, and have been practicing DBT since 2015. I work with teens, young adults, and adults, specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, complex trauma, and management of high-risk, self-harming, and suicidal behaviors. I integrate mindfulness, acceptance, and change strategies within a collaborative environment to help my clients reach their goals. Often, people living with BPD have suffered numerous traumas and invalidations throughout their lives; by offering DBT I strive to help these and other individuals be understood and respected so that we can work toward change together.
(708) 726-8167 View (708) 726-8167
Photo of Krina Gandhi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krina Gandhi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience treating adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, suicidal ideations, self harm, and troubles with adjustments & life transitions.
It is inevitable that life is challenging and often times, we feel stuck and need reminders that we are not alone. As a psychotherapist, I understand that each client has a unique story of their own and that each client deserves tailored and individualized care. We will start by establishing what goals you would like to achieve in therapy and will then create a treatment plan collaboratively. I tend to pull from your strengths and values, and will work with you to unpack unhelpful thinking patterns and maladaptive behaviors and will explore alternative coping skills that will be more sustainable for you in the long run.
I have many years of experience treating adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, suicidal ideations, self harm, and troubles with adjustments & life transitions.
It is inevitable that life is challenging and often times, we feel stuck and need reminders that we are not alone. As a psychotherapist, I understand that each client has a unique story of their own and that each client deserves tailored and individualized care. We will start by establishing what goals you would like to achieve in therapy and will then create a treatment plan collaboratively. I tend to pull from your strengths and values, and will work with you to unpack unhelpful thinking patterns and maladaptive behaviors and will explore alternative coping skills that will be more sustainable for you in the long run.
(312) 313-9959 View (312) 313-9959
Photo of Carolyn Raitt, LCPC, Counselor
Carolyn Raitt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
(312) 262-3704 View (312) 262-3704
Photo of Christina Osorio, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christina Osorio
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I participate in research at Northwestern in the areas of depression, suicidal ideation, and eating disorders.
People often come to me because they are in pain. Pain can be difficult to handle alone and may feel overwhelming or hopeless. Therapy can help to share that experience, explore concerns, and create a more meaningful life. As a therapist, I focus on creating a warm, empathic, and nurturing atmosphere encouraging curiosity and exploration. I enjoy reflecting with my patients on how their life experiences have led up to where they are today. Together, we may explore unconscious patterns in behavior, dreams, motivations, relationships, and emotions to create a deeper understanding of oneself and increase self-awareness.
I participate in research at Northwestern in the areas of depression, suicidal ideation, and eating disorders.
People often come to me because they are in pain. Pain can be difficult to handle alone and may feel overwhelming or hopeless. Therapy can help to share that experience, explore concerns, and create a more meaningful life. As a therapist, I focus on creating a warm, empathic, and nurturing atmosphere encouraging curiosity and exploration. I enjoy reflecting with my patients on how their life experiences have led up to where they are today. Together, we may explore unconscious patterns in behavior, dreams, motivations, relationships, and emotions to create a deeper understanding of oneself and increase self-awareness.
(217) 912-4950 View (217) 912-4950
Photo of Joy N Watkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy N Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Healing and restoring individuals and couples as a Therapist and Consultant specializing in Mental Health and Substance Abuse for 20+ years. I have worked with Adults, Adolescents, Teens and Young Adults extensively. I specialize in CBT Therapy, CBT Trauma Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Domestic Violence and Strengths Based Therapy. For individuals or couple experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, fears or any other Mental Health issues I can assist you with combating these issues that are affecting your daily life using a strengths base approach.
Healing and restoring individuals and couples as a Therapist and Consultant specializing in Mental Health and Substance Abuse for 20+ years. I have worked with Adults, Adolescents, Teens and Young Adults extensively. I specialize in CBT Therapy, CBT Trauma Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Domestic Violence and Strengths Based Therapy. For individuals or couple experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, fears or any other Mental Health issues I can assist you with combating these issues that are affecting your daily life using a strengths base approach.
(630) 895-8911 View (630) 895-8911
Photo of Emani Sullivan, MS, ALMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emani Sullivan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ALMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
I am also well-versed in working with self-exploration, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and stress.
You're here because you have made the immensely difficult decision to ask for help, and you've come to the right place. Maybe life feels incredibly overwhelming and is moving too fast, or the opposite - you feel stuck and it feels like nothing is moving you forward. Are you experiencing day-to-day difficulties, identity issues, distress related to past trauma, family/relational conflict, or struggles related to medical or health concerns? You may be looking for relief, acceptance, support, skills, or something else. All with the human intention of living a fulfilling life with the ability to move through challenges.
I am also well-versed in working with self-exploration, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and stress.
You're here because you have made the immensely difficult decision to ask for help, and you've come to the right place. Maybe life feels incredibly overwhelming and is moving too fast, or the opposite - you feel stuck and it feels like nothing is moving you forward. Are you experiencing day-to-day difficulties, identity issues, distress related to past trauma, family/relational conflict, or struggles related to medical or health concerns? You may be looking for relief, acceptance, support, skills, or something else. All with the human intention of living a fulfilling life with the ability to move through challenges.
(217) 694-8269 View (217) 694-8269
Photo of Rachel Kardon, LPC, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Kardon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship distress, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, stress management, life transitions, identity exploration, grief, trauma, and loss.
It takes great courage to come to therapy, and the most important part of being a clinician is the therapeutic relationship I develop with my clients. I provide a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship distress, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, stress management, life transitions, identity exploration, grief, trauma, and loss.
It takes great courage to come to therapy, and the most important part of being a clinician is the therapeutic relationship I develop with my clients. I provide a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(312) 467-7582 View (312) 467-7582
Photo of Monika Reklyte, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monika Reklyte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have clincial experience working with individuals and groups in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief, self-harm, anger and stress management, suicidal ideation, trauma, life changes, and relationship issues.
I believe in the transformative power of change. Learning to work with impermanence and change holds the key to our freedom. As we navigate life's unexpected challenges and transitions, I offer myself as a compassionate companion on your journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. As a trauma informed therapist, my therapeutic approach emphasizes authenticity, vulnerability, cultural humility, transparency and focus on mind-body relations. I incorporate mindfulness, somatics, and parts work into our sessions, recognizing that our inner selves are composed of various facets, each with its own unique needs and perspectives.
I have clincial experience working with individuals and groups in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief, self-harm, anger and stress management, suicidal ideation, trauma, life changes, and relationship issues.
I believe in the transformative power of change. Learning to work with impermanence and change holds the key to our freedom. As we navigate life's unexpected challenges and transitions, I offer myself as a compassionate companion on your journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. As a trauma informed therapist, my therapeutic approach emphasizes authenticity, vulnerability, cultural humility, transparency and focus on mind-body relations. I incorporate mindfulness, somatics, and parts work into our sessions, recognizing that our inner selves are composed of various facets, each with its own unique needs and perspectives.
(312) 654-4593 View (312) 654-4593
Photo of Paige Burk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Burk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I also have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families navigating challenges related to depression, suicidal ideation, relational conflict, gender and sexuality, and so on.
If you find yourself struggling as you care for your new baby, navigate a difficult fertility journey, or wrestle with the impact of past trauma, I am here to help. Many people don’t anticipate the grief and loss that can come with parenthood, or how parenting can trigger wounds from the past. Whatever challenges you may be facing, I provide a supportive space where you can be wholly you, with all the mess, pain, beauty, and absurdity life brings. I will work with you to better understand your experiences and emotions so you can heal and make the changes you are seeking in your life.
I also have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families navigating challenges related to depression, suicidal ideation, relational conflict, gender and sexuality, and so on.
If you find yourself struggling as you care for your new baby, navigate a difficult fertility journey, or wrestle with the impact of past trauma, I am here to help. Many people don’t anticipate the grief and loss that can come with parenthood, or how parenting can trigger wounds from the past. Whatever challenges you may be facing, I provide a supportive space where you can be wholly you, with all the mess, pain, beauty, and absurdity life brings. I will work with you to better understand your experiences and emotions so you can heal and make the changes you are seeking in your life.
(312) 376-4556 View (312) 376-4556
Photo of Tricia Dwyer, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tricia Dwyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or have prior experience, looking for the right fit in a therapist can be a difficult and vulnerable journey. I have extensive experience with providing therapy to individuals with depression, anxiety, non- suicidal self-injury, self-esteem issues, fertility concerns, eating disorders, body image concerns, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts and ideation, psychosis, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, relationship concerns, and trauma/PTSD/complex PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals who desire to learn effective coping strategies to reach their goals.
Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or have prior experience, looking for the right fit in a therapist can be a difficult and vulnerable journey. I have extensive experience with providing therapy to individuals with depression, anxiety, non- suicidal self-injury, self-esteem issues, fertility concerns, eating disorders, body image concerns, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts and ideation, psychosis, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, relationship concerns, and trauma/PTSD/complex PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals who desire to learn effective coping strategies to reach their goals.
(773) 345-9863 View (773) 345-9863
Photo of Faith Perrin, MA, LCPC
Faith Perrin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Some presenting concerns I commonly work with are anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship issues, complex trauma, sexual assault recovery, physical &/or emotional abuse recovery, low self-esteem, issues with a sense of belonging, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Do you often find yourself feeling stuck within yourself, relationships, or within your environment? My ideal client is ready for change. They are open to creative ideas and new ways of thinking about themselves and the world. I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past and present experiences prevent you from living the life you are meant to be living. I approach these struggles through a holistic and trauma informed approach, which incorporates body-based, anti-oppression, and harm reduction practices.
Some presenting concerns I commonly work with are anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship issues, complex trauma, sexual assault recovery, physical &/or emotional abuse recovery, low self-esteem, issues with a sense of belonging, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Do you often find yourself feeling stuck within yourself, relationships, or within your environment? My ideal client is ready for change. They are open to creative ideas and new ways of thinking about themselves and the world. I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past and present experiences prevent you from living the life you are meant to be living. I approach these struggles through a holistic and trauma informed approach, which incorporates body-based, anti-oppression, and harm reduction practices.
(312) 564-4544 View (312) 564-4544
Photo of Chris Montiel, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chris Montiel
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have experience and highly value working with Queer (LGBTQIA+), Latinx/First-Generation, poor, BIPOC, and other marginalized folx from adolescence through adulthood. I have worked with survivors of complex and acute trauma, and with clients experiencing - among others - symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, obsessive thoughts, relationship challenges, perfectionism, people pleasing, and isolation.
I have experience and highly value working with Queer (LGBTQIA+), Latinx/First-Generation, poor, BIPOC, and other marginalized folx from adolescence through adulthood. I have worked with survivors of complex and acute trauma, and with clients experiencing - among others - symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, obsessive thoughts, relationship challenges, perfectionism, people pleasing, and isolation.
(773) 900-7463 View (773) 900-7463
Photo of Julie Josler, LCPC, Counselor
Julie Josler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
(773) 389-2703 View (773) 389-2703
Photo of Kat Falson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kat Falson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse, Eating Disorders ,Self-Harming, Self Esteem Suicidal Ideation, Transgender , Trauma and PTSD.
Hi there! My name is Kat and my pronouns are they/them - please tell me your pronouns. I'm a counseling intern specializing in eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma in adolescents and young adults. With experience in residential treatment, PHP, IOP, substance abuse, and domestic violence, Kat offers a compassionate and straightforward therapeutic approach. Utilizing ACT, RO-DBT, ERP, and CBT, they tailor treatment to each client's unique needs. Outside of work, Kat enjoys adventures, spending time with loved ones, and pilates.
Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse, Eating Disorders ,Self-Harming, Self Esteem Suicidal Ideation, Transgender , Trauma and PTSD.
Hi there! My name is Kat and my pronouns are they/them - please tell me your pronouns. I'm a counseling intern specializing in eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma in adolescents and young adults. With experience in residential treatment, PHP, IOP, substance abuse, and domestic violence, Kat offers a compassionate and straightforward therapeutic approach. Utilizing ACT, RO-DBT, ERP, and CBT, they tailor treatment to each client's unique needs. Outside of work, Kat enjoys adventures, spending time with loved ones, and pilates.
(773) 377-5577 View (773) 377-5577
Photo of Danielle Arntson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Danielle Arntson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Drawing from my research in non- suicidal self-injury, I focus on effective communication and learning strategies for healing and impactful change.
We'll work together to create a safe, empowering space for you to explore your inner world, work through challenges, and regain control of your life. As a first-generation Ukrainian-American, I understand the power of cultural identity and familial history in shaping our experiences. My approach is rooted in vulnerability, honesty, and collaboration, helping you recognize the ability for change that you've always had within.
Drawing from my research in non- suicidal self-injury, I focus on effective communication and learning strategies for healing and impactful change.
We'll work together to create a safe, empowering space for you to explore your inner world, work through challenges, and regain control of your life. As a first-generation Ukrainian-American, I understand the power of cultural identity and familial history in shaping our experiences. My approach is rooted in vulnerability, honesty, and collaboration, helping you recognize the ability for change that you've always had within.
(872) 278-4993 View (872) 278-4993
Photo of Elliott Van Hoesen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elliott Van Hoesen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe prioritizing mental health and seeking help can be one of the hardest things to do. I’ve been practicing for 5 years, serving Military and veteran populations, LGBTQI+, civilian, and adult populations of clients in areas of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention social work. I have shifted my focus to adults who are struggling with anxiety and depression recently. I'm a safe trustworthy clinician and i look forward to working with you.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe prioritizing mental health and seeking help can be one of the hardest things to do. I’ve been practicing for 5 years, serving Military and veteran populations, LGBTQI+, civilian, and adult populations of clients in areas of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention social work. I have shifted my focus to adults who are struggling with anxiety and depression recently. I'm a safe trustworthy clinician and i look forward to working with you.
(520) 842-0924 View (520) 842-0924
Photo of Emily Battle, LCPC, Counselor
Emily Battle
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I have over 13 years of experience practicing therapy with children, adults, and families in a variety of settings who are dealing with a wide array of clinical issues. My main areas of clinical focus have been depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, anxiety, panic, trauma, and anger as well as behavioral, family, and interpersonal problems. If you find yourself or your child challenged with constant worry, low mood, lack of motivation, anger or interpersonal struggles, I am here to help!
I have over 13 years of experience practicing therapy with children, adults, and families in a variety of settings who are dealing with a wide array of clinical issues. My main areas of clinical focus have been depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, anxiety, panic, trauma, and anger as well as behavioral, family, and interpersonal problems. If you find yourself or your child challenged with constant worry, low mood, lack of motivation, anger or interpersonal struggles, I am here to help!
(773) 945-9088 View (773) 945-9088
Photo of Tobi Wyld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tobi Wyld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Are you or your teen struggling with navigating your identity? Have you experienced trauma, bullying, communication issues, self-harm, or suicidal ideation? Has your gender and/or sexuality impacted your mental health and you are wanting to learn how to embrace your most authentic self? Knowing how to navigate your own identity, or knowing how to support your child as they discover parts of who they are, can be a scary process. In order to embrace authenticity we need safety, security, and an ability to communicate. We will work together on finding healing, cultivating healthy communication, and creating a sense of safety.
Are you or your teen struggling with navigating your identity? Have you experienced trauma, bullying, communication issues, self-harm, or suicidal ideation? Has your gender and/or sexuality impacted your mental health and you are wanting to learn how to embrace your most authentic self? Knowing how to navigate your own identity, or knowing how to support your child as they discover parts of who they are, can be a scary process. In order to embrace authenticity we need safety, security, and an ability to communicate. We will work together on finding healing, cultivating healthy communication, and creating a sense of safety.
(872) 266-7922 View (872) 266-7922
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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.