Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Lavoyche Phelps, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lavoyche Phelps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Well hello there , my name is Lavoyche, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. We all have experienced trauma in some form of fashion, which can render us hopeless and helpless. You may experience depression, anxiety, self harm, and suicidal ideations that overwhelm your life. We often become prisoners in our own prison unable to realize that we hold the keys to release us from that prison. I will help you identify tools to move forward from your past trauma, how to take back your life, and live freely .
Well hello there , my name is Lavoyche, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. We all have experienced trauma in some form of fashion, which can render us hopeless and helpless. You may experience depression, anxiety, self harm, and suicidal ideations that overwhelm your life. We often become prisoners in our own prison unable to realize that we hold the keys to release us from that prison. I will help you identify tools to move forward from your past trauma, how to take back your life, and live freely .
(520) 210-5410 View (520) 210-5410
Photo of Madeline (Maddie) McDowell Rabah, MA, LPCC
Madeline (Maddie) McDowell Rabah
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with juggling your mental health and academics? Are you taking time off/mental leave from school? Do you experience suicidal ideations or urges to self-harm? The College Mental Wellness IOP is a college-aged mental health virtual IOP for individuals 18-25 yrs of age offered in Ohio and Arizona.
I am currently accepting new patients who are 17+ y/o who are located in Arizona and Ohio. I offer individual counseling & IOP level of care for individuals experiencing peer and family relationships, depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, negative thoughts, suicidal ideations/self-harm and many more. Please contact me if you have any questions or if you are interested in setting up a consultation!
Do you struggle with juggling your mental health and academics? Are you taking time off/mental leave from school? Do you experience suicidal ideations or urges to self-harm? The College Mental Wellness IOP is a college-aged mental health virtual IOP for individuals 18-25 yrs of age offered in Ohio and Arizona.
I am currently accepting new patients who are 17+ y/o who are located in Arizona and Ohio. I offer individual counseling & IOP level of care for individuals experiencing peer and family relationships, depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, negative thoughts, suicidal ideations/self-harm and many more. Please contact me if you have any questions or if you are interested in setting up a consultation!
(440) 578-7764 View (440) 578-7764
Photo of Afsheen Zuberi - Brightside Health, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (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 Casey Swenson, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Swenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85006
My specialties include trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, dissociation, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, and anxiety.
Have you been struggling with trauma, emotional pain, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or lack of support? Or have you experienced grief, loss, or complications in your relationships? Whether these feelings are temporary or lifelong, we do not need to continue with struggling alone. If life has been difficult or unmanageable, we can come together to find balance, understanding, and relief. In addition to therapy services, I offer Clinical Supervision to therapy licensees to guide them on their journey of licensure, providing ethical and compassionate supervision. Sessions offered in person or telehealth, weekends and evenings.
My specialties include trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, dissociation, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, and anxiety.
Have you been struggling with trauma, emotional pain, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or lack of support? Or have you experienced grief, loss, or complications in your relationships? Whether these feelings are temporary or lifelong, we do not need to continue with struggling alone. If life has been difficult or unmanageable, we can come together to find balance, understanding, and relief. In addition to therapy services, I offer Clinical Supervision to therapy licensees to guide them on their journey of licensure, providing ethical and compassionate supervision. Sessions offered in person or telehealth, weekends and evenings.
(520) 379-7351 View (520) 379-7351
Photo of Marci Morrison, LCSW, ACSW, C-SSWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marci Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, C-SSWS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050
Positive Mind Therapy, LLC focuses on positive, practical, evidence-based practices to help with mental health concerns related to school issues, anxiety, stress, depression, anger management, ADHD, behavioral concerns, LGBTQ+, grieving, social skills, self-esteem, crisis, self-harm, suicidal ideation, parenting concerns and other general concerns.
Marci Morrison, LCSW, ACSW, Diplomate, C-SSWS was a School Social Worker for 35 years and a crisis intervention specialist prior to working in schools. Marci specializes in children, adolescents, young adults and effective parenting skills for parents of children and adolescents. If your child has concerns in school, not only does Marci have an extensive background with child/adolescent behavior but also can help advocate for your child in the school system to help your child reach their highest potential. Marci began Positive Mind Therapy, LLC in 2018 and values a professional, personal touch with each client and their family.
Positive Mind Therapy, LLC focuses on positive, practical, evidence-based practices to help with mental health concerns related to school issues, anxiety, stress, depression, anger management, ADHD, behavioral concerns, LGBTQ+, grieving, social skills, self-esteem, crisis, self-harm, suicidal ideation, parenting concerns and other general concerns.
Marci Morrison, LCSW, ACSW, Diplomate, C-SSWS was a School Social Worker for 35 years and a crisis intervention specialist prior to working in schools. Marci specializes in children, adolescents, young adults and effective parenting skills for parents of children and adolescents. If your child has concerns in school, not only does Marci have an extensive background with child/adolescent behavior but also can help advocate for your child in the school system to help your child reach their highest potential. Marci began Positive Mind Therapy, LLC in 2018 and values a professional, personal touch with each client and their family.
(480) 566-9246 View (480) 566-9246
Photo of January Hartze - Healing Hartze, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healing Hartze
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Our Specialties include depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, obsessions and compulsions, interpersonal problems, emotional concerns, trauma, self-esteem, LGBTQ+, psychosis, self-harm and suicidal ideation.
EMDR, Evenings, Saturday and Sundays available! Now accepting new clients as well as AHCCCS plans, OSCAR, BCBS, Cigna, UHC, AETNA, and more. Hello and welcome to the beginning of your journey to better self-awareness, growth, and healing! My name is January Hartze, and my team and I are trained in several treatment modalities which allows us to blend elements from different theories and interventions to customize our approach based on your needs and goals. We use EMDR Therapy, DBT, and CBT among many other therapy modalities to address issues and difficulties that prevent a person from reaching their potential.
Our Specialties include depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, obsessions and compulsions, interpersonal problems, emotional concerns, trauma, self-esteem, LGBTQ+, psychosis, self-harm and suicidal ideation.
EMDR, Evenings, Saturday and Sundays available! Now accepting new clients as well as AHCCCS plans, OSCAR, BCBS, Cigna, UHC, AETNA, and more. Hello and welcome to the beginning of your journey to better self-awareness, growth, and healing! My name is January Hartze, and my team and I are trained in several treatment modalities which allows us to blend elements from different theories and interventions to customize our approach based on your needs and goals. We use EMDR Therapy, DBT, and CBT among many other therapy modalities to address issues and difficulties that prevent a person from reaching their potential.
(623) 253-8815 View (623) 253-8815
Photo of Yamile Daher, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yamile Daher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012  (Online Only)
Hi! I am Yami Daher, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Arizona. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University in 2015 and have been practicing for over 10 years. My career began as a suicide prevention crisis counselor at Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in Los Angeles, CA.
Hi! I am Yami Daher, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Arizona. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University in 2015 and have been practicing for over 10 years. My career began as a suicide prevention crisis counselor at Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in Los Angeles, CA.
(623) 343-1736 View (623) 343-1736
Photo of Courtney J Kucera, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Courtney J Kucera
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults who come to therapy seeking support for issues such as depression, suicidal ideation/self harm, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and identity development.
If you have been wanting to make changes in your life to increase overall balance and improve relationships with yourself and others, I would love to help you however I can!
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults who come to therapy seeking support for issues such as depression, suicidal ideation/self harm, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and identity development.
If you have been wanting to make changes in your life to increase overall balance and improve relationships with yourself and others, I would love to help you however I can!
(602) 666-9411 View (602) 666-9411
Photo of Melissa Ziervogel - PSCS Wellness Center, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
PSCS Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85013
I have has experience in treating individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and as well as self-harming behaviors.
Melissa Ziervogel, Accepting New Clients In-Person and Online. Located at PSCS Wellness Center. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with adolescents, teens and adults. I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling degree from Argosy University and have been working in the field of crisis since 2010. My desire is to help those who are facing a range of difficulties in their lives and my goal is to help you realize your strengths and to provide an atmosphere that allows you to learn new approaches to those difficulties.
I have has experience in treating individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and as well as self-harming behaviors.
Melissa Ziervogel, Accepting New Clients In-Person and Online. Located at PSCS Wellness Center. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with adolescents, teens and adults. I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling degree from Argosy University and have been working in the field of crisis since 2010. My desire is to help those who are facing a range of difficulties in their lives and my goal is to help you realize your strengths and to provide an atmosphere that allows you to learn new approaches to those difficulties.
(480) 907-3164 View (480) 907-3164
Photo of Joseph E Woodruff - Healing and Strengthening Families and Individuals, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healing and Strengthening Families and Individuals
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85029
I want to make sure that the client and I are a fit when it comes to rapport. That looks like feeling comfortable sharing content that might cause uncomfortableness due to fearing judgment. If established in the first meeting, I feel confident in working with those with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, family conflicts, grief, and performance issues in school, sports, or career (to name a few). I believe the treatment models that I use can build their resilience to deal with past, current, and future challenges.
I want to make sure that the client and I are a fit when it comes to rapport. That looks like feeling comfortable sharing content that might cause uncomfortableness due to fearing judgment. If established in the first meeting, I feel confident in working with those with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, family conflicts, grief, and performance issues in school, sports, or career (to name a few). I believe the treatment models that I use can build their resilience to deal with past, current, and future challenges.
(928) 769-3651 View (928) 769-3651
Photo of Anna Bernasconi, LPC, Counselor
Anna Bernasconi
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I have over six years of experience working with teenagers and adults. I specialize in working with clients who have gender identity issues, including transgender, those on the Autism spectrum, ADHD, sex and pornography addiction, Men's issues, family relationship problems, personality disorders, self-harming and suicidal ideation. My therapeutic approaches I use include supportive counseling, person-centered, strengths-based, CBT, DBT and trauma informed. I am a gender affirming therapist. I identify as a queer, neurodivergent therapist myself.
Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I have over six years of experience working with teenagers and adults. I specialize in working with clients who have gender identity issues, including transgender, those on the Autism spectrum, ADHD, sex and pornography addiction, Men's issues, family relationship problems, personality disorders, self-harming and suicidal ideation. My therapeutic approaches I use include supportive counseling, person-centered, strengths-based, CBT, DBT and trauma informed. I am a gender affirming therapist. I identify as a queer, neurodivergent therapist myself.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Caroline Mellon, BS, BHT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Mellon
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, BHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
My professional background includes serving as a Crisis Counselor for the National Suicide Hotline and the Childhelp National Hotline, where I developed the skills needed to offer support during times of crisis and distress.
My counseling philosophy centers around creating a safe, nonjudgmental, and understanding environment for you. I believe in the power of our therapeutic relationship and tailor my approach to meet your unique needs, ensuring that you feel heard and valued. Utilizing evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, we will collaborate to navigate life's challenges and uncover your inner resilience.I am dedicated to supporting your journey of self-discovery and growth. With a wealth of experience in the behavioral health field, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective counseling.
My professional background includes serving as a Crisis Counselor for the National Suicide Hotline and the Childhelp National Hotline, where I developed the skills needed to offer support during times of crisis and distress.
My counseling philosophy centers around creating a safe, nonjudgmental, and understanding environment for you. I believe in the power of our therapeutic relationship and tailor my approach to meet your unique needs, ensuring that you feel heard and valued. Utilizing evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, we will collaborate to navigate life's challenges and uncover your inner resilience.I am dedicated to supporting your journey of self-discovery and growth. With a wealth of experience in the behavioral health field, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective counseling.
(602) 989-8899 View (602) 989-8899
Photo of Jenna Daniel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenna Daniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Waitlist for new clients
I also utilize DBT to support clients who are experiencing mood dysregulation, poor interpersonal relationships, impulsivity, self-harming behaviors and/or suicidal ideation.
Feeling stuck in anxiety and fear can be overwhelming and isolating, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Together, we can navigate through these challenges and work towards finding relief and a sense of empowerment. I am a trauma informed therapist, treating trauma and stress-related disorders, OCD and other compulsive disorders, and mood disorders. As you courageously step into therapy, I am here to support you every step of the way. I take pride in using evidence-based treatments and take an integrated approach to providing therapy.
I also utilize DBT to support clients who are experiencing mood dysregulation, poor interpersonal relationships, impulsivity, self-harming behaviors and/or suicidal ideation.
Feeling stuck in anxiety and fear can be overwhelming and isolating, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Together, we can navigate through these challenges and work towards finding relief and a sense of empowerment. I am a trauma informed therapist, treating trauma and stress-related disorders, OCD and other compulsive disorders, and mood disorders. As you courageously step into therapy, I am here to support you every step of the way. I take pride in using evidence-based treatments and take an integrated approach to providing therapy.
(602) 560-6052 View (602) 560-6052
Photo of Jessica D. Koh, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica D. Koh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that believes in the beauty of the human spirit. Above all else, I believe in being honest, straight forward, and genuine. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental and behavioral health field since 2012. I have worked with individuals with trauma, depression, anxiety, paranoia, psychosis, suicidal ideations, victims of domestic violence and offenders. I consider being part of your journey towards wellness, regardless of the circumstances, to be a privilege.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that believes in the beauty of the human spirit. Above all else, I believe in being honest, straight forward, and genuine. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental and behavioral health field since 2012. I have worked with individuals with trauma, depression, anxiety, paranoia, psychosis, suicidal ideations, victims of domestic violence and offenders. I consider being part of your journey towards wellness, regardless of the circumstances, to be a privilege.
(602) 854-9968 View (602) 854-9968
Photo of Marian Humphries, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marian Humphries
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 24 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults as well as their families. My experience has been working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, suicidal ideation, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, and dysfunctional coping skills including self-harming behaviors. Therapy is tailored to the individual using best practices.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 24 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults as well as their families. My experience has been working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, suicidal ideation, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, and dysfunctional coping skills including self-harming behaviors. Therapy is tailored to the individual using best practices.
(602) 693-0361 View (602) 693-0361
Photo of Angela Ross, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85024  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Arizona. I received my Masters degree from Grand Canyon University. I have been practicing for 5 years and I help adults and adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, stress, relational concerns, trauma, and burnout. I help clients become the best versions of themselves. I enjoy working with clients on an individual bases, as a family, and in a group setting.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Arizona. I received my Masters degree from Grand Canyon University. I have been practicing for 5 years and I help adults and adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, stress, relational concerns, trauma, and burnout. I help clients become the best versions of themselves. I enjoy working with clients on an individual bases, as a family, and in a group setting.
(623) 400-8670 View (623) 400-8670
Photo of Sherrelle Thompsom - Healing Hearts Behavioral Health PLLC, LAC, Counselor
Healing Hearts Behavioral Health PLLC
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85051
I am passionate about helping individuals with disabilities, preteens, teens, couples, and anyone who is needing help on their journey to being healed. I have helped others work through Substance abuse, low self-esteem, negative self-image, suicidal behaviors, Anxiety, Depression, and families who are trying to develop the skills needed to help support their loved ones. I have also helped couples either dating or married in redefining their relationships and coming back together as a unit.
I am passionate about helping individuals with disabilities, preteens, teens, couples, and anyone who is needing help on their journey to being healed. I have helped others work through Substance abuse, low self-esteem, negative self-image, suicidal behaviors, Anxiety, Depression, and families who are trying to develop the skills needed to help support their loved ones. I have also helped couples either dating or married in redefining their relationships and coming back together as a unit.
(623) 281-2768 View (623) 281-2768
Photo of Jayden Doden, BS, BHT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jayden Doden
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, BHT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027
In these environments, I addressed a range of issues including substance use, process addictions, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-worth.
Greetings, I’m Jayden (Jade) Doden. I hold a Bachelor’s of Science in Counseling with an Emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Abuse from Grand Canyon University. My background includes volunteering at a local high school where I facilitated psychoeducational groups for at-risk teenagers, equipping them with coping skills to navigate community challenges. I bring experience from acute inpatient psychiatric settings, where I supported young adults, adults, LGBTQIA+, geriatric, and SMI populations.
In these environments, I addressed a range of issues including substance use, process addictions, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-worth.
Greetings, I’m Jayden (Jade) Doden. I hold a Bachelor’s of Science in Counseling with an Emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Abuse from Grand Canyon University. My background includes volunteering at a local high school where I facilitated psychoeducational groups for at-risk teenagers, equipping them with coping skills to navigate community challenges. I bring experience from acute inpatient psychiatric settings, where I supported young adults, adults, LGBTQIA+, geriatric, and SMI populations.
(602) 989-8899 View (602) 989-8899
Photo of Stacey Keane, MSc, LPC, SC-C, NCC, Counselor
Stacey Keane
Counselor, MSc, LPC, SC-C, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85029
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* I work with adolescents and adults who suffer from trauma or identity issues looking to eliminate suicidal thoughts and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts and/or hallucinations. I help clients understand their symptoms and learn methods of coping. I also encourage clients to create meaning for their experiences and grow as a result. I assist clients in assigning meaning to hallucinations and/or intrusive thoughts so that they can use appropriate methods to take back control, including use of client's spiritual beliefs and practices as well as CBT and DBT methods.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* I work with adolescents and adults who suffer from trauma or identity issues looking to eliminate suicidal thoughts and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts and/or hallucinations. I help clients understand their symptoms and learn methods of coping. I also encourage clients to create meaning for their experiences and grow as a result. I assist clients in assigning meaning to hallucinations and/or intrusive thoughts so that they can use appropriate methods to take back control, including use of client's spiritual beliefs and practices as well as CBT and DBT methods.
(844) 996-0046 View (844) 996-0046
Photo of Kim Kabar, EMDR, KAP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Kabar
Marriage & Family Therapist, EMDR, KAP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, feelings of inadequacy, the need to “perform” (whether socially, academically, professionally or within intimate relationships), mistrust of others, suicidal ideation and/or the pain of unresolved traumas, I can help.
The struggle to lesson anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria and/or the pain of past traumas has led many of my clients to self-sooth through a variety of ways including eating, smoking, drinking, gaming, & toxic relationships. They want more than anything to just be happy in life. Our journey together is about healing past wounds & shedding the negative beliefs that are keeping you stuck & away from the joy that is your innate right to experience.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, feelings of inadequacy, the need to “perform” (whether socially, academically, professionally or within intimate relationships), mistrust of others, suicidal ideation and/or the pain of unresolved traumas, I can help.
The struggle to lesson anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria and/or the pain of past traumas has led many of my clients to self-sooth through a variety of ways including eating, smoking, drinking, gaming, & toxic relationships. They want more than anything to just be happy in life. Our journey together is about healing past wounds & shedding the negative beliefs that are keeping you stuck & away from the joy that is your innate right to experience.
(623) 404-8886 View (623) 404-8886
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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.