Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Chattanooga, TN

Photo of Trey Sommerfeld, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Trey Sommerfeld
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
My expertise lies in working with clients who are grappling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and self-harming behaviors.
Practicing kindness towards ourselves can be challenging, especially when there are countless voices and messages that tell us otherwise. I firmly believe that everyone deserves acceptance and compassion, regardless of their unique story. As your therapist, it would be my privilege to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing. Together, we can create a safe space where we can learn new skills and behaviors as we increase our skills and options for how we respond to all the chaos that life throws our way.
My expertise lies in working with clients who are grappling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and self-harming behaviors.
Practicing kindness towards ourselves can be challenging, especially when there are countless voices and messages that tell us otherwise. I firmly believe that everyone deserves acceptance and compassion, regardless of their unique story. As your therapist, it would be my privilege to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing. Together, we can create a safe space where we can learn new skills and behaviors as we increase our skills and options for how we respond to all the chaos that life throws our way.
(423) 556-3596 View (423) 556-3596
Photo of Sara O'Toole, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara O'Toole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411  (Online Only)
Imagine being full of joy, presence, and gratitude. Life can be overwhelming at times with all of its troubles. It may feel like you're no longer a driver, but a passenger in your own life. You have difficulty seeing beyond the here and now, unable to find solutions, and you can't come back to a sense of self because everything else seems to be keeping you from peace. You're wanting to take control and live a life you've been dreaming of. I work specifically with addiction, crisis, and suicidal thoughts.
Imagine being full of joy, presence, and gratitude. Life can be overwhelming at times with all of its troubles. It may feel like you're no longer a driver, but a passenger in your own life. You have difficulty seeing beyond the here and now, unable to find solutions, and you can't come back to a sense of self because everything else seems to be keeping you from peace. You're wanting to take control and live a life you've been dreaming of. I work specifically with addiction, crisis, and suicidal thoughts.
(423) 600-5605 View (423) 600-5605
Photo of Diana Partington, LPC, MHSP, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Partington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37403
As a DBT therapist, I have a particularly powerful tool kit for overcoming issues with suicide and self-harm.
If you struggle with overwhelming emotions, I can teach you skills in a supportive, engaging environment. You can join my Online DBT skills training groups from anywhere in the world. I also offer Individual DBT therapy for people in Tennessee, including Skills Coaching by phone, Individual Therapy and group. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a highly effective, well researched therapy. The work demands a lot from Therapist and client. And it is worth it! Most clients report that my sense of humor and authenticity is one of the reasons they like working with me. I really value the use of "irreverence" in DBT.
As a DBT therapist, I have a particularly powerful tool kit for overcoming issues with suicide and self-harm.
If you struggle with overwhelming emotions, I can teach you skills in a supportive, engaging environment. You can join my Online DBT skills training groups from anywhere in the world. I also offer Individual DBT therapy for people in Tennessee, including Skills Coaching by phone, Individual Therapy and group. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a highly effective, well researched therapy. The work demands a lot from Therapist and client. And it is worth it! Most clients report that my sense of humor and authenticity is one of the reasons they like working with me. I really value the use of "irreverence" in DBT.
(615) 205-4476 View (615) 205-4476
Photo of Sam David Bernard Phd, SPE-HSP, NCC, EAP-C, FAAETS, DAAETS
Sam David Bernard Phd
SPE-HSP, NCC, EAP-C, FAAETS, DAAETS
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421  (Online Only)
I also specialize in crisis intervention - for everything from life crisis, grief, death, adjustment, suicide, homicide, human trafficking, disaster, medical crisis, etc.
Originally licensed in 1988, I've been in private practice since 1997 in Chattanooga, TN. I focus on crisis intervention and short-term psychotherapy to get clients stabilized and back out enjoying life ASAP. I do a thorough assessment of life to know past and current events may be impacting your current situation. I see life situations as developmental - not always pathological, thus I use education and learning to address life's challenges. While it's not all about your parents, one's history does play a major role in how we learn to cope with life. Be ready to learn some new ways to cope with people and various life events.
I also specialize in crisis intervention - for everything from life crisis, grief, death, adjustment, suicide, homicide, human trafficking, disaster, medical crisis, etc.
Originally licensed in 1988, I've been in private practice since 1997 in Chattanooga, TN. I focus on crisis intervention and short-term psychotherapy to get clients stabilized and back out enjoying life ASAP. I do a thorough assessment of life to know past and current events may be impacting your current situation. I see life situations as developmental - not always pathological, thus I use education and learning to address life's challenges. While it's not all about your parents, one's history does play a major role in how we learn to cope with life. Be ready to learn some new ways to cope with people and various life events.
(423) 471-8644 View (423) 471-8644
Photo of Morgan Boles @ Chattanooga Dbt, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Boles @ Chattanooga Dbt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
My areas of clinical interest include depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation/self-harm, self-esteem/self-worth issues, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal issues, sexual trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, blended families, foster care adjustment, spiritual issues and development, compassion fatigue, counseling for adults and adolescents.
I was drawn to counseling as a career because of the incredible personal experience I have had with healing in community. We are not meant to go through life alone. My passion and heart is to help others succeed and thrive in life. I want to partner alongside and support clients in their journey towards holistic health (mind, body, spirit) and healing. We are often wounded in relationships and the therapy relationship can be an incredible restorative and corrective tool.
My areas of clinical interest include depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation/self-harm, self-esteem/self-worth issues, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal issues, sexual trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, blended families, foster care adjustment, spiritual issues and development, compassion fatigue, counseling for adults and adolescents.
I was drawn to counseling as a career because of the incredible personal experience I have had with healing in community. We are not meant to go through life alone. My passion and heart is to help others succeed and thrive in life. I want to partner alongside and support clients in their journey towards holistic health (mind, body, spirit) and healing. We are often wounded in relationships and the therapy relationship can be an incredible restorative and corrective tool.
(423) 375-8838 View (423) 375-8838
Photo of Deborah Lancaster, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Lancaster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
I enjoy working with adults, and couples on issues including complex family dysfunction, relational or marital distress, identity issues, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression and additional mental illness.
It takes tremendous courage to choose to walk through difficult places on the path towards healing, and it takes even more courage to invite a counselor to walk with you. I consider it an honor to join with my clients as they face the challenges in life, whether it be wounds from the past , struggles with managing mood and thoughts, issues with relational functioning, sexuality or unhealthy coping. I believe there is power in relationship and I consider it a joy to help clients learn how to better relate to themselves, others and the world around them.
I enjoy working with adults, and couples on issues including complex family dysfunction, relational or marital distress, identity issues, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression and additional mental illness.
It takes tremendous courage to choose to walk through difficult places on the path towards healing, and it takes even more courage to invite a counselor to walk with you. I consider it an honor to join with my clients as they face the challenges in life, whether it be wounds from the past , struggles with managing mood and thoughts, issues with relational functioning, sexuality or unhealthy coping. I believe there is power in relationship and I consider it a joy to help clients learn how to better relate to themselves, others and the world around them.
(423) 438-1829 View (423) 438-1829
Photo of Andrea Milligan Moody, MS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Milligan Moody
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37404
Waitlist for new clients
I have joined with many individuals with a diverse range of ages, cultures, and symptoms including sexual trauma, family conflict, attachment issues, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, poor self-esteem, anxiety, and anger.
Through the therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and inviting place to be vulnerable, to process life adjustments, and to begin learning healthy coping skills. I have 10 years of experience engaging in counseling relationships with children, adolescents, and adults in the Chattanooga area. I believe that change begins in the context of an authentic relationship and that every unique story deserves to be heard. Drawing from family systems, interpersonal, and cognitive-behavioral approaches, I provide evidence-based therapy for both individuals and families.
I have joined with many individuals with a diverse range of ages, cultures, and symptoms including sexual trauma, family conflict, attachment issues, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, poor self-esteem, anxiety, and anger.
Through the therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and inviting place to be vulnerable, to process life adjustments, and to begin learning healthy coping skills. I have 10 years of experience engaging in counseling relationships with children, adolescents, and adults in the Chattanooga area. I believe that change begins in the context of an authentic relationship and that every unique story deserves to be heard. Drawing from family systems, interpersonal, and cognitive-behavioral approaches, I provide evidence-based therapy for both individuals and families.
(423) 214-2692 View (423) 214-2692
Photo of Christine Lawson, MACMHC, MDiv, NCC, LPC -, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACMHC, MDiv, NCC, LPC -, MHSP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37403  (Online Only)
Depression and anxiety can really affect every area of your life. Reaching out to seek help is sometimes hard, but it is an important step in self-care and healing. My name is Christine Lawson, and in addition to anxiety and depression, I have worked with those who are in crisis due to self-harming behaviors as well as thoughts of suicide. With 15+ years of experience as a special education teacher before refocusing on counseling in 2019, I have also worked extensively with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior disorders. If you need a safe space to work on those things that are blocking your joy, I'm here for you.
Depression and anxiety can really affect every area of your life. Reaching out to seek help is sometimes hard, but it is an important step in self-care and healing. My name is Christine Lawson, and in addition to anxiety and depression, I have worked with those who are in crisis due to self-harming behaviors as well as thoughts of suicide. With 15+ years of experience as a special education teacher before refocusing on counseling in 2019, I have also worked extensively with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior disorders. If you need a safe space to work on those things that are blocking your joy, I'm here for you.
(423) 523-8805 View (423) 523-8805
Photo of Kristin Duke, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Duke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
You’ve been the rescuer, the caregiver, the rock for years, and it’s finally taking its toll on you. You’ve learned to hide your fatigue and your pain really well. In fact, you’d be surprised if anyone knew how much you really struggle and how your thoughts race at night when the world is quiet. Words like “weak” or “not fit for duty” push you to burrow down further into your isolation. But what if there was a better way? Together, we are going to work through this. You have finally found a place to exhale.
You’ve been the rescuer, the caregiver, the rock for years, and it’s finally taking its toll on you. You’ve learned to hide your fatigue and your pain really well. In fact, you’d be surprised if anyone knew how much you really struggle and how your thoughts race at night when the world is quiet. Words like “weak” or “not fit for duty” push you to burrow down further into your isolation. But what if there was a better way? Together, we are going to work through this. You have finally found a place to exhale.
(423) 375-4120 View (423) 375-4120
Photo of Sara Jane LeMay, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sara Jane LeMay
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
If you have emotions that seem uncontrollable, thoughts that seem to toss you around and run rampant, or if you find that your relationships with others are often filled with hurt and miscommunication… let’s talk! As a trained therapist in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) I offer comprehensive and informed DBT therapy. This means that I offer individual therapy, DBT skills group and training, as well as phone coaching. If you have tried therapy before with little to no improvement, DBT can be the change you’ve been looking for! It provides daily skills to implement immediately, so that you can see quick change in your life.
If you have emotions that seem uncontrollable, thoughts that seem to toss you around and run rampant, or if you find that your relationships with others are often filled with hurt and miscommunication… let’s talk! As a trained therapist in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) I offer comprehensive and informed DBT therapy. This means that I offer individual therapy, DBT skills group and training, as well as phone coaching. If you have tried therapy before with little to no improvement, DBT can be the change you’ve been looking for! It provides daily skills to implement immediately, so that you can see quick change in your life.
(423) 345-8574 View (423) 345-8574
Photo of Arianne Brigner At Chattanooga Dbt, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arianne Brigner At Chattanooga Dbt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
Do you experience strong emotions that sometimes overwhelm you? As a result, you do things to cope that you later regret. In the moment, you don’t know what else to do. You’ve tried to get help. Nothing seems to work. “Talk therapy” doesn’t cut it. Medications don’t do the trick. Self-help books are garbage. At this point, you’d do anything to have a different life. To be different. To feel different. Well. You’ve finally come to the right place. We work with people just like you. In fact, we LOVE working with people just like you. It’s our passion. We help you create a life you can love.
Do you experience strong emotions that sometimes overwhelm you? As a result, you do things to cope that you later regret. In the moment, you don’t know what else to do. You’ve tried to get help. Nothing seems to work. “Talk therapy” doesn’t cut it. Medications don’t do the trick. Self-help books are garbage. At this point, you’d do anything to have a different life. To be different. To feel different. Well. You’ve finally come to the right place. We work with people just like you. In fact, we LOVE working with people just like you. It’s our passion. We help you create a life you can love.
(423) 402-8649 View (423) 402-8649
Photo of Katie Woodruff, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Woodruff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I see individual clients aged 18 and up, most commonly struggling with feelings of isolation, difficulty in relationships, depression, anxiety, guilt/shame, negative view of self, difficulty with fluctuating emotions and issues related to trauma (which includes a range of experiences such as early emotional neglect, childhood or adult emotional/physical/sexual abuse, exposure to violence in the community, exposure to systemic racism or sexism, among many others.)
I see individual clients aged 18 and up, most commonly struggling with feelings of isolation, difficulty in relationships, depression, anxiety, guilt/shame, negative view of self, difficulty with fluctuating emotions and issues related to trauma (which includes a range of experiences such as early emotional neglect, childhood or adult emotional/physical/sexual abuse, exposure to violence in the community, exposure to systemic racism or sexism, among many others.)
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Photo of Mary Moore, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mary Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I believe that people make sense within their context. And so, I am mindful of context - cultural background, attachment style, family and relationship history, etc. I enjoy the process of listening and attending, especially to those whose voices may feel unheard, such as teens, women, and trauma survivors. My work is informed by an integrative and embodied approach, utilizing various family system theories and trauma-informed interventions. Through establishing a sound therapeutic relationship and safe environment, I am hopeful that your difficult emotions will "make sense," and a story of resilience and compassion will be heard.
I believe that people make sense within their context. And so, I am mindful of context - cultural background, attachment style, family and relationship history, etc. I enjoy the process of listening and attending, especially to those whose voices may feel unheard, such as teens, women, and trauma survivors. My work is informed by an integrative and embodied approach, utilizing various family system theories and trauma-informed interventions. Through establishing a sound therapeutic relationship and safe environment, I am hopeful that your difficult emotions will "make sense," and a story of resilience and compassion will be heard.
(423) 226-5845 View (423) 226-5845
Photo of Elaine Dowell, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaine Dowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37415
I believe that every person develops strategies for managing the pain, disconnection, and brokenness that arise out of our stories of harm. Oftentimes these protective strategies hinder the connection and relationships we so desperately desire. I am passionate about helping clients navigate the seemingly desolate and stuck places they find themselves, and ultimately moving towards healing and growth.
I believe that every person develops strategies for managing the pain, disconnection, and brokenness that arise out of our stories of harm. Oftentimes these protective strategies hinder the connection and relationships we so desperately desire. I am passionate about helping clients navigate the seemingly desolate and stuck places they find themselves, and ultimately moving towards healing and growth.
(423) 205-6475 View (423) 205-6475
Photo of Raekenya Walker, LMSW , LSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raekenya Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , LSSW
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37411
Have you ever been told you are "too much" but you constantly feel like you aren't enough? Or have you ever been depressed but felt guilty because outside looking in you "have it all together"? I've been there and I know how it feels. As a therapist, I offer empathy and help you develop healthy strategies to mute those negative thoughts. I give you the tools to ask for what you need in personal and professional relationships. I remind you that anxiety, depression, and past traumas do not make you broken or flawed. Your brain just works differently and I show you ways to manage that. I believe in you!
Have you ever been told you are "too much" but you constantly feel like you aren't enough? Or have you ever been depressed but felt guilty because outside looking in you "have it all together"? I've been there and I know how it feels. As a therapist, I offer empathy and help you develop healthy strategies to mute those negative thoughts. I give you the tools to ask for what you need in personal and professional relationships. I remind you that anxiety, depression, and past traumas do not make you broken or flawed. Your brain just works differently and I show you ways to manage that. I believe in you!
(615) 392-6593 View (615) 392-6593
Photo of Casey Lewis, MAMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I believe that my office is a safe place to land when you feel unsteady, unstable and unsure. I love to help couples and families work through hurt and discover ways to move forward. I love to provide safe space to be honest and raw. I love to help people learn to communicate in healthy ways, set boundaries and gain health in their relationships. I also love to help clients understand the physiological and neurobiological aspects of mental health. Being able to gain language for what they are experiencing tends to provide relief all on its own.
I believe that my office is a safe place to land when you feel unsteady, unstable and unsure. I love to help couples and families work through hurt and discover ways to move forward. I love to provide safe space to be honest and raw. I love to help people learn to communicate in healthy ways, set boundaries and gain health in their relationships. I also love to help clients understand the physiological and neurobiological aspects of mental health. Being able to gain language for what they are experiencing tends to provide relief all on its own.
(423) 455-9309 View (423) 455-9309
Photo of Erin Swem - Whole Self Collaborative, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Whole Self Collaborative
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Our mission is to increase accessibility to quality mental health and wellness services to the LGBTQ+ population. Maybe you just realized that you are gay or trans and you don’t know what to do next. Maybe you’re one of the many LGBTQ+ persons who have faced abuse, depression, anxiety, or other mental health struggles and are simply trying to exist. Maybe you're in a polyamorous/ENM relationship struggling with communication hangups, parenting, mismatched sexual desire or infidelity. Or maybe you spent your whole life shaming yourself for being "lazy," or "irresponsible," but you just can't seem to make your brain work with you.
Our mission is to increase accessibility to quality mental health and wellness services to the LGBTQ+ population. Maybe you just realized that you are gay or trans and you don’t know what to do next. Maybe you’re one of the many LGBTQ+ persons who have faced abuse, depression, anxiety, or other mental health struggles and are simply trying to exist. Maybe you're in a polyamorous/ENM relationship struggling with communication hangups, parenting, mismatched sexual desire or infidelity. Or maybe you spent your whole life shaming yourself for being "lazy," or "irresponsible," but you just can't seem to make your brain work with you.
(423) 285-6511 View (423) 285-6511
Photo of Tyler Clemmons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyler Clemmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37415
I am currently accepting new adult clients dealing with a range of challenges including trauma, grief, anxiety, anger, depression and other issues. If these struggles are affecting your daily life, relationships, or overall well-being, we may be a good fit to work together. The goals of clients I work with often include finding effective ways to cope with their emotions, healing from past experiences, changing behaviors, or managing anxiety and anger. My approach offers a safe, calm, and non-judgmental environment, to help you feel at ease for your first session.
I am currently accepting new adult clients dealing with a range of challenges including trauma, grief, anxiety, anger, depression and other issues. If these struggles are affecting your daily life, relationships, or overall well-being, we may be a good fit to work together. The goals of clients I work with often include finding effective ways to cope with their emotions, healing from past experiences, changing behaviors, or managing anxiety and anger. My approach offers a safe, calm, and non-judgmental environment, to help you feel at ease for your first session.
(423) 564-4627 View (423) 564-4627
Photo of Lacy Anderson, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lacy Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405
Welcome! Getting started in therapy can be scary, confusing, overwhelming, and so challenging. Whether this is the first or one hundredth page you've looked at, I think it is brave and remarkable that you are trying and I am honored that you are here. My primary goal as a therapist is to be a safe space for whatever my clients need; whether learning coping skills for anxiety, processing trauma, untangling identity, exploring faith, or something else entirely, I seek to provide a safe landing ground to do the hard work that is too big or scary to do alone or unsafe to do with others.
Welcome! Getting started in therapy can be scary, confusing, overwhelming, and so challenging. Whether this is the first or one hundredth page you've looked at, I think it is brave and remarkable that you are trying and I am honored that you are here. My primary goal as a therapist is to be a safe space for whatever my clients need; whether learning coping skills for anxiety, processing trauma, untangling identity, exploring faith, or something else entirely, I seek to provide a safe landing ground to do the hard work that is too big or scary to do alone or unsafe to do with others.
(423) 651-9768 View (423) 651-9768
Photo of Julie Fickley, MA, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Fickley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
Life is filled with so much beauty and pain. We have all been through more than enough difficulties in the past few years. Perhaps what is currently challenging for you has also brought up wounds from your past. Perhaps you are overwhelmed and can no longer manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Perhaps you feel ashamed or alone or hopeless. I am here to help.
Life is filled with so much beauty and pain. We have all been through more than enough difficulties in the past few years. Perhaps what is currently challenging for you has also brought up wounds from your past. Perhaps you are overwhelmed and can no longer manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Perhaps you feel ashamed or alone or hopeless. I am here to help.
(423) 205-6841 View (423) 205-6841

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.