Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Toronto, ON

Photo of Lou Gallo, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Lou Gallo
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4M
I have a specialization working with adults who have experienced trauma, including those who have experiences of suicidality and suicidal behaviours.
Using mindfulness and system based theories within an ARAO framework, I support people in making choices that have a positive impact on their lives.
I have a specialization working with adults who have experienced trauma, including those who have experiences of suicidality and suicidal behaviours.
Using mindfulness and system based theories within an ARAO framework, I support people in making choices that have a positive impact on their lives.
(437) 747-6067 View (437) 747-6067
Photo of Dylan Zambrano - DBT Virtual - DBT Program in ON, BC, AB & NS, Registered Social Worker, MSW
DBT Virtual - DBT Program in ON, BC, AB & NS
Registered Social Worker, MSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
DBT has proven to be effective for people with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, aggression, substance use, self-harm and suicidal behaviours.
Do you often find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster, struggling to get a hold of strong urges and stay in control? We help people with intense emotions, self-defeating thoughts and unhealthy behaviours that get in the way of them feeling and functioning at their best. We're a team of therapists specializing in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and we're here to help you untangle longstanding patterns so that you can take back control over your emotions and live a more meaningful life.
DBT has proven to be effective for people with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, aggression, substance use, self-harm and suicidal behaviours.
Do you often find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster, struggling to get a hold of strong urges and stay in control? We help people with intense emotions, self-defeating thoughts and unhealthy behaviours that get in the way of them feeling and functioning at their best. We're a team of therapists specializing in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and we're here to help you untangle longstanding patterns so that you can take back control over your emotions and live a more meaningful life.
(289) 210-5144 View (289) 210-5144
Photo of Amanda Buckingham, Registered Social Worker, MSW
Amanda Buckingham
Registered Social Worker, MSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are someone who is using self harm to cope, or experiencing suicidal thoughts and urges, I am here to support as well.
RO DBT was created to support people with “over controlled coping”, and consists of practical skills to let go of rigid rules and beliefs, open our lives to novel experiences, and connect with others on a deeper level. On the other hand, DBT supports people with "under controlled coping", and consists of practical skills to manage emotions and impulsivity.
If you are someone who is using self harm to cope, or experiencing suicidal thoughts and urges, I am here to support as well.
RO DBT was created to support people with “over controlled coping”, and consists of practical skills to let go of rigid rules and beliefs, open our lives to novel experiences, and connect with others on a deeper level. On the other hand, DBT supports people with "under controlled coping", and consists of practical skills to manage emotions and impulsivity.
(437) 747-4672 View (437) 747-4672
Photo of Katherine Hall, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Katherine Hall
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4G
Waitlist for new clients
My work focuses on supporting children, teens and young professionals on issues of anxiety, depression, suicide, self-harm and trauma.
Life has endless challenges for children, youth and young adults these days. Issues that previous generations didn't even need to think about are now part of every day life for younger generations - cyberbullying, worries about school safety, increased rates of mental health struggles, societal conversations about gender and sexuality... On top of that are the issues that have plagued youth for generations - stress, school, dating, friends, and numerous other issues to wade through day by day. Sometimes it's hard to cope with these things on our own though, and that's where I come in.
My work focuses on supporting children, teens and young professionals on issues of anxiety, depression, suicide, self-harm and trauma.
Life has endless challenges for children, youth and young adults these days. Issues that previous generations didn't even need to think about are now part of every day life for younger generations - cyberbullying, worries about school safety, increased rates of mental health struggles, societal conversations about gender and sexuality... On top of that are the issues that have plagued youth for generations - stress, school, dating, friends, and numerous other issues to wade through day by day. Sometimes it's hard to cope with these things on our own though, and that's where I come in.
(647) 559-9089 View (647) 559-9089
Photo of Alejandra Lindan, Registered Psychotherapist, MMT, RP
Alejandra Lindan
Registered Psychotherapist, MMT, RP
Online Only
My clients either directly experience or love someone who experiences “BPD / BPD traits,” DID / dissociative “disorders,” suicidal behaviours, and/or impulsive behaviours that get in the way of relationships and daily life.
Do you or a loved one need more stability in your safety, relationships, or day to day life? Maybe that out-of-control urge exploded again, and you wish you could find that kind of relief without all the mess afterward. Maybe it exploded in one or more of your relationships, and you don’t know what to do, but you feel unspeakably lost or lonely about it. Maybe at times you’ve given up on life being worth living. Maybe other times you put on a game face, and folks have no idea what you're (not really), holding together. Or maybe it's your partner or kiddo going through this, and you need support yourself. I'm here to help.
My clients either directly experience or love someone who experiences “BPD / BPD traits,” DID / dissociative “disorders,” suicidal behaviours, and/or impulsive behaviours that get in the way of relationships and daily life.
Do you or a loved one need more stability in your safety, relationships, or day to day life? Maybe that out-of-control urge exploded again, and you wish you could find that kind of relief without all the mess afterward. Maybe it exploded in one or more of your relationships, and you don’t know what to do, but you feel unspeakably lost or lonely about it. Maybe at times you’ve given up on life being worth living. Maybe other times you put on a game face, and folks have no idea what you're (not really), holding together. Or maybe it's your partner or kiddo going through this, and you need support yourself. I'm here to help.
(647) 559-3080 View (647) 559-3080
Photo of Mohammad Barzegari - Mohammad Barzegari , Registered Psychotherapist, RP (Q), MA
Mohammad Barzegari
Registered Psychotherapist, RP (Q), MA
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5E
I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS)—evidence-based approaches that are proven to help with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, ADHD, trauma, and even the most difficult experiences like suicidal ideation.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to achieve your goals? If your inner voice feels like your biggest critic, you’re not alone. As a trauma-informed therapist with over 7 years of hands-on experience and 12 years of education in psychology, I specialize in helping people uncover and transform unconscious patterns that hold them back. Using evidence-based approaches tailored to your unique needs, I create a safe and supportive environment where we can work together to overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions.
I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS)—evidence-based approaches that are proven to help with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, ADHD, trauma, and even the most difficult experiences like suicidal ideation.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to achieve your goals? If your inner voice feels like your biggest critic, you’re not alone. As a trauma-informed therapist with over 7 years of hands-on experience and 12 years of education in psychology, I specialize in helping people uncover and transform unconscious patterns that hold them back. Using evidence-based approaches tailored to your unique needs, I create a safe and supportive environment where we can work together to overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions.
(289) 804-5862 View (289) 804-5862
Photo of Hailey Goldberg - Hailey Goldberg, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hailey Goldberg
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harming behaviours, as well as suicidal ideations.
My counselling style is client-centered and collaborative, operating under a strengths-based approach. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy - both these therapies work towards solving life problems such as problematic coping patterns and unhelpful thinking patterns.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harming behaviours, as well as suicidal ideations.
My counselling style is client-centered and collaborative, operating under a strengths-based approach. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy - both these therapies work towards solving life problems such as problematic coping patterns and unhelpful thinking patterns.
(647) 691-0223 View (647) 691-0223
Photo of Sukhi Sidhu, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BSc
Sukhi Sidhu
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BSc
4 Endorsed
Online Only
With a background in mental health crisis, I've supported folks through the depths of depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
Hi! My name is Sukhi and I'm the owner of Abyss Psychotherapy, a virtual practice. Does it feel like your emotions control you? Do you have people in your life telling you "you need therapy"? Do you fight to keep it together until you're alone and then finally break down? Does it feel like you're on a spiral downwards and can't stop? If you need a space to breathe, to wonder "why", to express heavy emotions, I can hold that space for you. If you need tangible skills, I can teach, practice with you, and provide homework. If you need release from trauma, I can help you work with the body and unlearn what the trauma has taught.
With a background in mental health crisis, I've supported folks through the depths of depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
Hi! My name is Sukhi and I'm the owner of Abyss Psychotherapy, a virtual practice. Does it feel like your emotions control you? Do you have people in your life telling you "you need therapy"? Do you fight to keep it together until you're alone and then finally break down? Does it feel like you're on a spiral downwards and can't stop? If you need a space to breathe, to wonder "why", to express heavy emotions, I can hold that space for you. If you need tangible skills, I can teach, practice with you, and provide homework. If you need release from trauma, I can help you work with the body and unlearn what the trauma has taught.
(289) 210-9005 View (289) 210-9005
Photo of Tina Bendo, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Tina Bendo
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many of the clients I support have experience with suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma, and more.
Counselling is a personal and individualized journey, and it is important that you find someone who matches your needs. I offer virtual and in person therapy services through evidence-based approaches. I take the approach that you cannot choose what life has thrown at you, but we can work together to try and make things better. Everyone comes to therapy with their own life experience and perspective; I want to honour your journey and be a source of support toward a more fulfilling life
Many of the clients I support have experience with suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma, and more.
Counselling is a personal and individualized journey, and it is important that you find someone who matches your needs. I offer virtual and in person therapy services through evidence-based approaches. I take the approach that you cannot choose what life has thrown at you, but we can work together to try and make things better. Everyone comes to therapy with their own life experience and perspective; I want to honour your journey and be a source of support toward a more fulfilling life
(289) 277-0264 View (289) 277-0264
Photo of Kerri Phillips - Kerri Phillips - London Trauma Therapy , Registered Psychotherapist, RDMT, RP, CC
Kerri Phillips - London Trauma Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RDMT, RP, CC
Serves Area
I work with children, teens, and adults navigating a wide range of challenges; including suicidal thoughts, trauma, identity exploration, and emotional overwhelm.
You might be a child, teen, or young adult overwhelmed by big emotions, stuck in low moods, or questioning your identity in a world that doesn’t always feel safe or accepting. Maybe anxiety, depression, or thoughts of hopelessness make it hard to function, or you’re struggling with relationships, self-worth, or emotional intensity. I work with clients navigating mood dysregulation, grief, ADHD, BPD, and LGBTQIA+ identity. You’re not “too much,” and you don’t have to do this alone. You deserve support that sees your full self, and helps you feel more grounded, understood, and in control.
I work with children, teens, and adults navigating a wide range of challenges; including suicidal thoughts, trauma, identity exploration, and emotional overwhelm.
You might be a child, teen, or young adult overwhelmed by big emotions, stuck in low moods, or questioning your identity in a world that doesn’t always feel safe or accepting. Maybe anxiety, depression, or thoughts of hopelessness make it hard to function, or you’re struggling with relationships, self-worth, or emotional intensity. I work with clients navigating mood dysregulation, grief, ADHD, BPD, and LGBTQIA+ identity. You’re not “too much,” and you don’t have to do this alone. You deserve support that sees your full self, and helps you feel more grounded, understood, and in control.
(226) 777-7702 View (226) 777-7702
Photo of Dr. Shelley McMain - Dr. Shelley McMain - Centre for MindBody Health, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Shelley McMain - Centre for MindBody Health
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Toronto, ON M5N
Shelley is an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of personality disorders, emotion regulation, self-harm and suicidal behavior.
Dr. Shelley McMain is a Registered Psychologist who has been practicing for more than 30 years. She is Head of the Borderline Personality Disorder Clinic and a Clinician Scientist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto. She is also the Director of the Psychotherapy, Humanities, and Psychosocial Interventions Division and an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto. Shelley was the first Canadian clinician certified by the DBT-Linehan Board of Certification as a DBT individual and group therapist. She has also completed in-depth training in Prolonged Exposure, EFT and CBT.
Shelley is an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of personality disorders, emotion regulation, self-harm and suicidal behavior.
Dr. Shelley McMain is a Registered Psychologist who has been practicing for more than 30 years. She is Head of the Borderline Personality Disorder Clinic and a Clinician Scientist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto. She is also the Director of the Psychotherapy, Humanities, and Psychosocial Interventions Division and an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto. Shelley was the first Canadian clinician certified by the DBT-Linehan Board of Certification as a DBT individual and group therapist. She has also completed in-depth training in Prolonged Exposure, EFT and CBT.
(647) 496-0683 View (647) 496-0683
Photo of Sonia Pahwa, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Sonia Pahwa
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In addition to counselling services, suicide intervention training and supervision services are available.
Welcome. Looking for creative ways to make meaningful change? Or a safe place to sit with the uncertainty of the moment? Therapy and counselling is a place that can help you voice your thoughts, explore and move through challenges, and grow in your desired direction. Our work together will look at your unique experience, and what is meaningful in your life. My approach is emotionally-focused, neurobiological, and trauma-informed.
In addition to counselling services, suicide intervention training and supervision services are available.
Welcome. Looking for creative ways to make meaningful change? Or a safe place to sit with the uncertainty of the moment? Therapy and counselling is a place that can help you voice your thoughts, explore and move through challenges, and grow in your desired direction. Our work together will look at your unique experience, and what is meaningful in your life. My approach is emotionally-focused, neurobiological, and trauma-informed.
(289) 272-0903 View (289) 272-0903
Photo of Marria Kennedy - andtherapy (DBT), Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
andtherapy (DBT)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no).
There are 4 components in our comprehensive DBT program at &therapy. Weekly individual therapy (where we work on your goals together), 24/7 phone coaching (because we want to help you use skills in the moment when you need them most), skills group (to learn the skills outside of your session) and therapist consult team (therapy for the therapist).
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no).
There are 4 components in our comprehensive DBT program at &therapy. Weekly individual therapy (where we work on your goals together), 24/7 phone coaching (because we want to help you use skills in the moment when you need them most), skills group (to learn the skills outside of your session) and therapist consult team (therapy for the therapist).
(437) 747-6361 View (437) 747-6361
Photo of Dianna Ilk, Registered Psychotherapist, MFA, MA, Dipl, TICP, YR1
Dianna Ilk
Registered Psychotherapist, MFA, MA, Dipl, TICP, YR1
Toronto, ON M5S
I have worked for many decades as a suicide and crisis counsellor, a visual artist, professor, and parent.
When you find yourself going through a life transition, feeling stressed, depressed or grieving a loss, you might feel overwhelmed and alone. Often our thoughts and feelings get tangled with expectations leaving us unsure about how to take care of our mental health. Together we will explore what is working for you and what is not. When you get to know yourself better you can begin to see unwanted and self-defeating patterns as they emerge. By developing greater self-awareness and practicing self-acceptance, you will begin to discover new ways to grow and strengthen as a person.
I have worked for many decades as a suicide and crisis counsellor, a visual artist, professor, and parent.
When you find yourself going through a life transition, feeling stressed, depressed or grieving a loss, you might feel overwhelmed and alone. Often our thoughts and feelings get tangled with expectations leaving us unsure about how to take care of our mental health. Together we will explore what is working for you and what is not. When you get to know yourself better you can begin to see unwanted and self-defeating patterns as they emerge. By developing greater self-awareness and practicing self-acceptance, you will begin to discover new ways to grow and strengthen as a person.
(343) 307-5663 View (343) 307-5663
Photo of Noor Alassadi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD, CRPO, OAMHP, CBT, OACYC
Noor Alassadi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD, CRPO, OAMHP, CBT, OACYC
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2N
I have experience in working with different mental health concerns including abuse, bullying, ADHD, ADD, ASD, OCD, anxiety, conduct disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, academic/intellectual limitations, emotional disorders, suicidal ideation, panic attacks, depression, emotional eating, cultural shock, immigration challenges, diversity, and trauma/PTSD.
In addition to my doctorate degree in developmental psychology, I earned various certifications in sports, mindfulness, meditation, breathing techniques, yoga, post rehabilitation, which I include within my therapy so you can be consistent, stable, and ready to move forward!
I have experience in working with different mental health concerns including abuse, bullying, ADHD, ADD, ASD, OCD, anxiety, conduct disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, academic/intellectual limitations, emotional disorders, suicidal ideation, panic attacks, depression, emotional eating, cultural shock, immigration challenges, diversity, and trauma/PTSD.
In addition to my doctorate degree in developmental psychology, I earned various certifications in sports, mindfulness, meditation, breathing techniques, yoga, post rehabilitation, which I include within my therapy so you can be consistent, stable, and ready to move forward!
(365) 599-0140 View (365) 599-0140
Photo of Andrew Robert Spice - The DBT Clinic, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
The DBT Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Online Only
People who benefit from DBT often struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal thoughts or suicidal behaviour, self-harm, intense negative emotions, impulsive behaviours, substance abuse, anger management, relationship difficulties, chronic feelings of emptiness, and eating disorders, among other possible problems.
We offer comprehensive, evidence-based, specialized Dialectical Behaviour Therapy programs to adults and adolescents in Toronto and across Ontario. Treatment may include individual therapy, groups, telephone coaching, and family support sessions.
People who benefit from DBT often struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal thoughts or suicidal behaviour, self-harm, intense negative emotions, impulsive behaviours, substance abuse, anger management, relationship difficulties, chronic feelings of emptiness, and eating disorders, among other possible problems.
We offer comprehensive, evidence-based, specialized Dialectical Behaviour Therapy programs to adults and adolescents in Toronto and across Ontario. Treatment may include individual therapy, groups, telephone coaching, and family support sessions.
(437) 747-5175 View (437) 747-5175
Photo of Nadia Fernandez, Pre-Licensed Professional, BSc, MD
Nadia Fernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSc, MD
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5A
There are a variety of areas that I have experience with including suicide prevention, managing intergenerational trauma, navigating the post partum journey, parental guilt and burnout in competitive career paths.
I've worn several hats within the mental health field - I graduated from medical school, I've worked in suicide prevention in several roles including staff wellness and I'm in my last year of Gestalt psychotherapy training. I draw from many of these experiences and practise from a trauma informed and culturally sensitive lens.
There are a variety of areas that I have experience with including suicide prevention, managing intergenerational trauma, navigating the post partum journey, parental guilt and burnout in competitive career paths.
I've worn several hats within the mental health field - I graduated from medical school, I've worked in suicide prevention in several roles including staff wellness and I'm in my last year of Gestalt psychotherapy training. I draw from many of these experiences and practise from a trauma informed and culturally sensitive lens.
(647) 560-2480 View (647) 560-2480
Photo of Peter Han, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Peter Han
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Areas I devote my practice to include: Emotion dysregulation; ADHD; Substance use & addiction; Relationship difficulties; Complex trauma; Suicidal and/or self-harming behaviours; Cultural & sexual identity concerns; Anxiety & depression.
I will help you break out of hard-to-change patterns you might find yourself in and work with you toward your values and goals within a safe, flexible, and collaborative process. My orientation to providing therapy is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming.
Areas I devote my practice to include: Emotion dysregulation; ADHD; Substance use & addiction; Relationship difficulties; Complex trauma; Suicidal and/or self-harming behaviours; Cultural & sexual identity concerns; Anxiety & depression.
I will help you break out of hard-to-change patterns you might find yourself in and work with you toward your values and goals within a safe, flexible, and collaborative process. My orientation to providing therapy is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming.
(365) 797-0086 View (365) 797-0086
Photo of Camille Alizadeh, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPsy
Camille Alizadeh
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPsy
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4T
At Lived Collective, I offer therapeutic support for individuals and their loved ones with challenges related to Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and suicidal ideation.
I start with a comprehensive assessment of your personal history and current needs. I help you safely explore your inner world and work to reconnect you to yourself and those around you. I offer an authentic therapeutic space, unique lived experience, and trauma-informed care to support you in building a life you want to live.
At Lived Collective, I offer therapeutic support for individuals and their loved ones with challenges related to Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and suicidal ideation.
I start with a comprehensive assessment of your personal history and current needs. I help you safely explore your inner world and work to reconnect you to yourself and those around you. I offer an authentic therapeutic space, unique lived experience, and trauma-informed care to support you in building a life you want to live.
(647) 471-3525 View (647) 471-3525
Photo of Cathy Tebogt, Registered Psychotherapist
Cathy Tebogt
Registered Psychotherapist
Online Only
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with a private practice in Toronto, ON. I use a psychodynamic lens to support individuals struggling with diverse mental health issues, with a focus on LGBTQ+ clients, depression and suicidal ideation, disordered eating, complex trauma and ADHD. I use a trauma-informed approach, with a special focus on regulating and coping with emotions, improving daily functioning and mood, and integrating mind and body. I value client-centered therapy and tailor the therapy experience to my client’s individual needs. I look forward to joining you on your therapy journey!
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with a private practice in Toronto, ON. I use a psychodynamic lens to support individuals struggling with diverse mental health issues, with a focus on LGBTQ+ clients, depression and suicidal ideation, disordered eating, complex trauma and ADHD. I use a trauma-informed approach, with a special focus on regulating and coping with emotions, improving daily functioning and mood, and integrating mind and body. I value client-centered therapy and tailor the therapy experience to my client’s individual needs. I look forward to joining you on your therapy journey!
(437) 800-0594 View (437) 800-0594

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Suicidal Ideation Counsellors

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 behavioural 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 behavioural, dialectical behaviour, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioural and dialectical behaviour 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.