Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Wharton County, TX

Photo of Kathy Keith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Boling, TX 77420
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
(866) 702-4363 View (866) 702-4363
Photo of Flor Moreno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Flor Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louise, TX 77455  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Flor! My name is Flor Moreno, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Rio Grande City, Texas, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, family issues, work issues, or a variety of other concerns by using Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other modalities. I have worked with school-aged children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and geriatric clients. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for people who are dealing with challenges of life and communication issues.
Hi there, I'm Flor! My name is Flor Moreno, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Rio Grande City, Texas, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, family issues, work issues, or a variety of other concerns by using Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other modalities. I have worked with school-aged children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and geriatric clients. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for people who are dealing with challenges of life and communication issues.
(346) 594-6488 View (346) 594-6488
Photo of Catherine Lunde - The Woodlands Family Counseling Center, PLLC
The Woodlands Family Counseling Center, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Egypt, TX 77436
TWFCC assists individuals who are going through difficult times by providing the support they need to overcome issues from the past, find freedom from unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior, and live full and productive lives. Our therapists are trained to work with anxiety and depression, relational issues, abuse, trauma, grief, personal & spiritual growth, life transitions, and many additional issues.
TWFCC assists individuals who are going through difficult times by providing the support they need to overcome issues from the past, find freedom from unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior, and live full and productive lives. Our therapists are trained to work with anxiety and depression, relational issues, abuse, trauma, grief, personal & spiritual growth, life transitions, and many additional issues.
(936) 463-8185 View (936) 463-8185
Photo of Lashana Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lashana Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boling, TX 77420
Hi! My name is LaShana, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have experience working through many types of life challenges including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anger management, occupational stress and self-esteem issues. My therapy approach is client-centered, and the treatment modalities I prefer to use are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing.
Hi! My name is LaShana, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have experience working through many types of life challenges including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anger management, occupational stress and self-esteem issues. My therapy approach is client-centered, and the treatment modalities I prefer to use are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing.
(214) 380-1978 View (214) 380-1978

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Angela K Waggoner, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CSC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Angela K Waggoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CSC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77505
Dr. Waggoner has a passion for working with individuals and couples who struggle with trauma, crisis, suicidal ideation, self-harm, abuse (physical, emotional, mental, sexual, spiritual), and complex trauma. She also works with the grief, loss, depression, and anxiety that stems from these issues.
Dr. Waggoner has a passion for working with individuals and couples who struggle with trauma, crisis, suicidal ideation, self-harm, abuse (physical, emotional, mental, sexual, spiritual), and complex trauma. She also works with the grief, loss, depression, and anxiety that stems from these issues.
(281) 712-2967 View (281) 712-2967
Photo of Muhibbah Khan, LPC-A, LPC Intern
Muhibbah Khan
LPC Intern, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and cultural issues.
You did it! You made it to the first step of your journey to better mental health. I know that it can be daunting and nerve-wracking to take the step to start therapy, but know I am here to support you as you go through the ups and downs of that journey. Counseling is such a deeply personal experience and I believe that it is different for each and every person. This is why I aim to create a judgment-free environment in our sessions where you will feel comfortable and safe to be your true self because that is where the most growth takes place.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and cultural issues.
You did it! You made it to the first step of your journey to better mental health. I know that it can be daunting and nerve-wracking to take the step to start therapy, but know I am here to support you as you go through the ups and downs of that journey. Counseling is such a deeply personal experience and I believe that it is different for each and every person. This is why I aim to create a judgment-free environment in our sessions where you will feel comfortable and safe to be your true self because that is where the most growth takes place.
(346) 788-1915 View (346) 788-1915
Photo of Asma Rahim, MA, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Asma Rahim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Mrs. Rahim started RCCS in 2010. Her first experience in the field in 2007 was at the Veteran Hospital's Pain Clinic and In-patient Area. After Graduation, she spent some time in the Middle East and voluntarily served her time and knowledge with familial issues and women issues. She has experienced hospice and loss, & understands grief and suicide. Her years of experience is wide as she has worked with clients and their families about depression, anxiety, addiction, multi-cultural, multi-racial family and marital issues. She works well with adults and adolescents dealing with self esteem and communication issues.
Mrs. Rahim started RCCS in 2010. Her first experience in the field in 2007 was at the Veteran Hospital's Pain Clinic and In-patient Area. After Graduation, she spent some time in the Middle East and voluntarily served her time and knowledge with familial issues and women issues. She has experienced hospice and loss, & understands grief and suicide. Her years of experience is wide as she has worked with clients and their families about depression, anxiety, addiction, multi-cultural, multi-racial family and marital issues. She works well with adults and adolescents dealing with self esteem and communication issues.
(832) 308-8146 View (832) 308-8146
Photo of Denise Azani, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Azani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77081  (Online Only)
Current specializations incorporate crisis intervention, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, grief, coping/relaxation skills, grounding techniques, stress management, anger management, behavior issues, trauma and PTSD, family conflict, parenting, family systems, oppositional defiance (ODD), autism, and intellectual development disability (IDD).
My name is Denise Azani and I am an El Paso native. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. My experience includes hospital settings, outpatient clinics, detention facilities, shelter environments, and community settings. In these settings, I have provided bilingual therapy services to include crisis intervention, individual counseling, couple’s counseling, family counseling, and group sessions. As an eclectic therapist, I incorporate a person-centered approach, using reality therapy, solution focus brief therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Current specializations incorporate crisis intervention, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, grief, coping/relaxation skills, grounding techniques, stress management, anger management, behavior issues, trauma and PTSD, family conflict, parenting, family systems, oppositional defiance (ODD), autism, and intellectual development disability (IDD).
My name is Denise Azani and I am an El Paso native. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. My experience includes hospital settings, outpatient clinics, detention facilities, shelter environments, and community settings. In these settings, I have provided bilingual therapy services to include crisis intervention, individual counseling, couple’s counseling, family counseling, and group sessions. As an eclectic therapist, I incorporate a person-centered approach, using reality therapy, solution focus brief therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(915) 223-5837 View (915) 223-5837
Photo of Steven E. Bailley, PhD, Psychologist
Steven E. Bailley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
On a personal note, a very close member of my family died by suicide.
If you are in a challenging or traumatic situation (e.g. loss of a loved one, coping with sudden life changes), therapy can help. I am a licensed psychologist with 20+ years of clinical experience helping people deal effectively with adversity, stress and trauma. We will work in a respectful, collaborative manner. I utilize an integrative psychotherapeutic approach with proven methods, through which you will gain insight and learn skills to help you heal and successfully manage the complexities of your situation. In learning to deal more effectively with your difficulties, you will feel better and your situation will improve.
On a personal note, a very close member of my family died by suicide.
If you are in a challenging or traumatic situation (e.g. loss of a loved one, coping with sudden life changes), therapy can help. I am a licensed psychologist with 20+ years of clinical experience helping people deal effectively with adversity, stress and trauma. We will work in a respectful, collaborative manner. I utilize an integrative psychotherapeutic approach with proven methods, through which you will gain insight and learn skills to help you heal and successfully manage the complexities of your situation. In learning to deal more effectively with your difficulties, you will feel better and your situation will improve.
(713) 338-9281 x1 View (713) 338-9281 x1
Photo of Dieumerci Mukoga - Thrive Therapy & Practice, PLLC, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thrive Therapy & Practice, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77099  (Online Only)
I have over 5 years of experience with working with teenagers who struggle with self-esteem, self-harm, suicide ideations and various mental health disorders.
My name is Dieumerci Mukoga, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I earned my Master's of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I believe every client is unique and come into the therapeutic space with their various lived experiences. I specialize in working with adolescents and adult women who struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, stress, and everyday challenges that may arise to impact our mental health. I aim to help clients find the tools needed to thrive in life!
I have over 5 years of experience with working with teenagers who struggle with self-esteem, self-harm, suicide ideations and various mental health disorders.
My name is Dieumerci Mukoga, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I earned my Master's of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I believe every client is unique and come into the therapeutic space with their various lived experiences. I specialize in working with adolescents and adult women who struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, stress, and everyday challenges that may arise to impact our mental health. I aim to help clients find the tools needed to thrive in life!
(346) 617-2518 View (346) 617-2518
Photo of Stephanie Smith, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009  (Online Only)
I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, trauma, severe mental illness, and ADHD.
My name is Stephanie Smith, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I know it can be a difficult decision to seek therapy. I am committed to providing compassionate and non-judgmental support by providing a safe space for clients to feel heard, understood, and safe. I graduated from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am currently pursuing my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. I want to create a collaborative environment where we can function as a team. You are the expert of your own life, and I am your guide and support.
I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, trauma, severe mental illness, and ADHD.
My name is Stephanie Smith, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I know it can be a difficult decision to seek therapy. I am committed to providing compassionate and non-judgmental support by providing a safe space for clients to feel heard, understood, and safe. I graduated from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am currently pursuing my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. I want to create a collaborative environment where we can function as a team. You are the expert of your own life, and I am your guide and support.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Stephanie Smith, MS, LPC, NCC, CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
I know it can be a difficult decision to seek therapy. I am committed to providing compassionate and non-judgmental support by providing a safe space for clients to open up. I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, trauma, severe mental illness, and ADHD. I believe that it is important to feel heard, understood, and safe while working together. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I have experience in working with police, EMS, grief/bereavement, life stage transitions, career issues, and suicidal ideation.
I know it can be a difficult decision to seek therapy. I am committed to providing compassionate and non-judgmental support by providing a safe space for clients to open up. I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, trauma, severe mental illness, and ADHD. I believe that it is important to feel heard, understood, and safe while working together. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I have experience in working with police, EMS, grief/bereavement, life stage transitions, career issues, and suicidal ideation.
(806) 605-2753 View (806) 605-2753
Photo of Marica Nicholas, LPC-A, MA, MEd
Marica Nicholas
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , LPC-A, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tomball, TX 77375
I have worked with children from pre-k through high school that are from diverse backgrounds and different cultures. I believe that all children need to know that someone is there for them when they need help. I have helped children and adults as they work through trauma, grief, low self esteem, abuse, anxiety, behavior challenges, and suicide ideation. I have a special place in my heart for senior citizens and enjoy working with them as they move into new roles and stages of life.
I have worked with children from pre-k through high school that are from diverse backgrounds and different cultures. I believe that all children need to know that someone is there for them when they need help. I have helped children and adults as they work through trauma, grief, low self esteem, abuse, anxiety, behavior challenges, and suicide ideation. I have a special place in my heart for senior citizens and enjoy working with them as they move into new roles and stages of life.
(281) 769-2238 x640 View (281) 769-2238 x640
Photo of Courtney Padden, MS, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Padden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I have worked with ADHD, family conflict, suicidal ideation, and learning appropriate ways to express emotions.
It is my belief that struggles come from not being able to reach our true potential. It is my goal to honor you and your potential, and help you do the same. When we feel nurtured, safe, and supported, we begin to become who we truly can be. I find that resolving one area of difficulty often leads to other difficulties resolving.
I have worked with ADHD, family conflict, suicidal ideation, and learning appropriate ways to express emotions.
It is my belief that struggles come from not being able to reach our true potential. It is my goal to honor you and your potential, and help you do the same. When we feel nurtured, safe, and supported, we begin to become who we truly can be. I find that resolving one area of difficulty often leads to other difficulties resolving.
(832) 479-3337 View (832) 479-3337
Photo of Ashma Hakani, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashma Hakani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479  (Online Only)
Committed to supporting clients working through Trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief and loss, parenting and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with overwhelming challenges and stress? Perhaps your days are a blur of exhaustion and self-doubt, leaving you questioning your purpose and direction. You might feel invisible in a world that demands constant achievements, like a parent overwhelmed by family pressure leaving you emotionally depleted. Let’s work together to build a path towards healing and hope. My name is Ashma Hakani, and I am passionate about providing culturally competent and trauma-informed care and have a deep commitment to serving you. I deeply believe in the power of renewal and positive change.
Committed to supporting clients working through Trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief and loss, parenting and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with overwhelming challenges and stress? Perhaps your days are a blur of exhaustion and self-doubt, leaving you questioning your purpose and direction. You might feel invisible in a world that demands constant achievements, like a parent overwhelmed by family pressure leaving you emotionally depleted. Let’s work together to build a path towards healing and hope. My name is Ashma Hakani, and I am passionate about providing culturally competent and trauma-informed care and have a deep commitment to serving you. I deeply believe in the power of renewal and positive change.
(832) 240-3986 View (832) 240-3986
Photo of Harold Haven Boggs, MS, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harold Haven Boggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478  (Online Only)
I help adults with: (divorce, remarriage, PTSD, alcohol, drugs, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide prevention, compulsive sex, job loss; physical illness and disability; eldering); male teens: (problems with self-confidence, sexuality and identity; relationship with parents; alcohol drug problems, depression, grief); with : parents' divorce, or remarriage); families with : (Covenant Marriage, pre-marriage, remarriage, blended families, conflict and violence, abuse, divorce, empty nest), parents : (parent-child conflicts, problems with co-parenting, single-parenting and/or blending families, difficulties with CPS cases, and in-laws
I help adults with: (divorce, remarriage, PTSD, alcohol, drugs, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide prevention, compulsive sex, job loss; physical illness and disability; eldering); male teens: (problems with self-confidence, sexuality and identity; relationship with parents; alcohol drug problems, depression, grief); with : parents' divorce, or remarriage); families with : (Covenant Marriage, pre-marriage, remarriage, blended families, conflict and violence, abuse, divorce, empty nest), parents : (parent-child conflicts, problems with co-parenting, single-parenting and/or blending families, difficulties with CPS cases, and in-laws
(281) 978-2998 View (281) 978-2998
Photo of Anita Crawford Oliphant - Oliphant Counseling Center PLLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Oliphant Counseling Center PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Texas City, TX 77590
My name is Anita Oliphant. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked with children the past 9 years and worked with adults recovering from addictions for a little over a year. I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and young adults that need support with social and emotional skills, ADHD, anxiety, divorce, suicide ideation, as well as other mental health related difficulties.  ​
My name is Anita Oliphant. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked with children the past 9 years and worked with adults recovering from addictions for a little over a year. I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and young adults that need support with social and emotional skills, ADHD, anxiety, divorce, suicide ideation, as well as other mental health related difficulties.  ​
(409) 219-7958 View (409) 219-7958
Photo of Vasavi Kanneganti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vasavi Kanneganti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77080  (Online Only)
Whether or not this is your first time working with a therapist - I'm so glad you're here. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and elderly clients. My professional experience has primarily included treating clients struggling with Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Suicidal Ideation, Family/Relationship Issues, and Self-Esteem Issues.
Whether or not this is your first time working with a therapist - I'm so glad you're here. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and elderly clients. My professional experience has primarily included treating clients struggling with Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Suicidal Ideation, Family/Relationship Issues, and Self-Esteem Issues.
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Photo of Meghan Stang, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meghan Stang
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058  (Online Only)
I specialize in the following treatment areas: Anxiety, Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex-Trauma, Familial Issues, Grief and Loss, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Co-Occurring Disorders, Anger Management, Suicidal Ideation, and Spirituality and Religion.
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, I have the unique opportunity to collaborate with clients throughout the therapeutic process. I value the therapeutic relationship because it is the foundation on which transformation can occur. I work alongside clients to recognize the potential they possess to implement the necessary changes, in their lives. Starting the therapeutic process can be very intimidating and confusing. I strive to provide my clients with a warm and welcoming experience. I would love to meet you and learn more about your therapeutic needs!
I specialize in the following treatment areas: Anxiety, Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex-Trauma, Familial Issues, Grief and Loss, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Co-Occurring Disorders, Anger Management, Suicidal Ideation, and Spirituality and Religion.
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, I have the unique opportunity to collaborate with clients throughout the therapeutic process. I value the therapeutic relationship because it is the foundation on which transformation can occur. I work alongside clients to recognize the potential they possess to implement the necessary changes, in their lives. Starting the therapeutic process can be very intimidating and confusing. I strive to provide my clients with a warm and welcoming experience. I would love to meet you and learn more about your therapeutic needs!
(281) 524-3439 View (281) 524-3439
Photo of Sherry I. Shaefer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherry I. Shaefer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I have conducted trainings on crisis intervention, suicide and accessing care for law enforcement and other community partners.
As a caring and empathetic therapist, I approach each person with unconditional positive regard. My job is to provide support and encouragement to assist you in the process of change and healing. Creating change requires trust, and I will partner with you as you bravely take the steps in a new direction. Support as you heal requires compassion, care, and a safe place to explore your feelings. Using a cognitive behavioral approach, we can create an individualized plan to help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals. I am excited to work with you on your healing path towards acceptance, genuine change, and success.
I have conducted trainings on crisis intervention, suicide and accessing care for law enforcement and other community partners.
As a caring and empathetic therapist, I approach each person with unconditional positive regard. My job is to provide support and encouragement to assist you in the process of change and healing. Creating change requires trust, and I will partner with you as you bravely take the steps in a new direction. Support as you heal requires compassion, care, and a safe place to explore your feelings. Using a cognitive behavioral approach, we can create an individualized plan to help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals. I am excited to work with you on your healing path towards acceptance, genuine change, and success.
(936) 259-0795 View (936) 259-0795

See more therapy options for Wharton County

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.