Suicidal Ideation Counselling in Northfleet

Photo of Dr Amna Salman, Psychologist, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Dr Amna Salman
Psychologist, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Online Only
Life is a beautiful challenge. We all face adversity in life, whether this manifests as mental or physical illness, trauma, or difficulty coping with day to day experiences. Therapy is not just about treatment or addressing mental illness, it is a tool that we can all use to develop a better understanding of ourselves and our individual lived experience, and to reconnect with the joy in our lives. Therapy can help us identify thinking and behaviour patterns, address past and present traumas, cope with everyday fears and anxieties, and learn ways to better relate to and understand ourselves, our environments, and other people.
Life is a beautiful challenge. We all face adversity in life, whether this manifests as mental or physical illness, trauma, or difficulty coping with day to day experiences. Therapy is not just about treatment or addressing mental illness, it is a tool that we can all use to develop a better understanding of ourselves and our individual lived experience, and to reconnect with the joy in our lives. Therapy can help us identify thinking and behaviour patterns, address past and present traumas, cope with everyday fears and anxieties, and learn ways to better relate to and understand ourselves, our environments, and other people.
01474 556704 View 01474 556704
Photo of Tracy Bernadette Weber Jarvis - Tracy Jarvis BA(Hons) TJ Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Tracy Jarvis BA(Hons) TJ Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I am an Integrative counsellor which means that I use a variety of counselling approaches dependant on your needs and what you want to achieve in the counselling process. Throughout the process you decide what you want to talk about and the pace you want to go. I will listen to you and help you to express and understand your emotions. Sometimes I use writing, drawing and toys to help you express difficult emotions. I have experience in helping people who want to talk through issues of Spirituality, especially their Christian faith.
I am an Integrative counsellor which means that I use a variety of counselling approaches dependant on your needs and what you want to achieve in the counselling process. Throughout the process you decide what you want to talk about and the pace you want to go. I will listen to you and help you to express and understand your emotions. Sometimes I use writing, drawing and toys to help you express difficult emotions. I have experience in helping people who want to talk through issues of Spirituality, especially their Christian faith.
01375 350600 View 01375 350600
Photo of Sophie Russell, Counsellor, BACP
Sophie Russell
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
Are you a parent worrying about your child or teenager's mental health? Are you a young person yourself who's struggling? I am a fully qualified, integrative counsellor working exclusively with young people aged 11-21 years. I have experience working with young people with a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, self harm, low self esteem, issues with body image, relationship/ friendship issues, school issues, family conflicts, sexuality and gender identity. I am a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, have full public indemnity insurance, an enhanced DBS and additional safeguarding training.
Are you a parent worrying about your child or teenager's mental health? Are you a young person yourself who's struggling? I am a fully qualified, integrative counsellor working exclusively with young people aged 11-21 years. I have experience working with young people with a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, self harm, low self esteem, issues with body image, relationship/ friendship issues, school issues, family conflicts, sexuality and gender identity. I am a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, have full public indemnity insurance, an enhanced DBS and additional safeguarding training.
01474 555735 View 01474 555735

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cathryn Goatham - Empathia Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Empathia Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
My work includes suicide prevention, self-harm, bereavement, relationship struggles, and divorce.
Hello, I’m Cathryn, a qualified Integrative Counsellor registered with the BACP. I specialize in supporting individuals with BPD/EUPD, Autism, ADHD, trauma, and self-harm. I understand the emotional toll these challenges take and provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we’ll develop coping strategies, emotional regulation skills, and self-empowerment. I offer a free 15-minute introductory call to see if we’re the right fit. I’m here to support your journey toward healing.
My work includes suicide prevention, self-harm, bereavement, relationship struggles, and divorce.
Hello, I’m Cathryn, a qualified Integrative Counsellor registered with the BACP. I specialize in supporting individuals with BPD/EUPD, Autism, ADHD, trauma, and self-harm. I understand the emotional toll these challenges take and provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we’ll develop coping strategies, emotional regulation skills, and self-empowerment. I offer a free 15-minute introductory call to see if we’re the right fit. I’m here to support your journey toward healing.
01795 501950 View 01795 501950
Photo of Claudine Therese Astles - Claudine Astles, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Claudine Astles
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
London SW1W
I have worked with adult survivors of sexual abuse and people struggling with ideas of suicide as well as supporting clients to overcome low self esteem, anxiety, and manage the pressures life brings to us all.
The first step towards asking for help can be the hardest. Get in touch and we can take it together. My name is Claudine Astles and I work with clients in the Victoria area of central London, SW1, and also online. I am committed to offering a safe, non-judgemental space in which we can use counselling and therapy to explore your concerns, fears, and anxieties, and work together to help you reconnect with joy. I work with individuals on an open-ended basis or for an agreed time period, with the aim of enabling you to enhance your life and to live it more fully.
I have worked with adult survivors of sexual abuse and people struggling with ideas of suicide as well as supporting clients to overcome low self esteem, anxiety, and manage the pressures life brings to us all.
The first step towards asking for help can be the hardest. Get in touch and we can take it together. My name is Claudine Astles and I work with clients in the Victoria area of central London, SW1, and also online. I am committed to offering a safe, non-judgemental space in which we can use counselling and therapy to explore your concerns, fears, and anxieties, and work together to help you reconnect with joy. I work with individuals on an open-ended basis or for an agreed time period, with the aim of enabling you to enhance your life and to live it more fully.
020 3974 2441 View 020 3974 2441
Photo of Lynda Chebbihi Msc Gmbpss Mbacp, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Lynda Chebbihi Msc Gmbpss Mbacp
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
These adverse events can shatter everything you believe in, leaving you feeling lost, suicidal, not knowing who you are anymore.
I am a qualified Psychologist, Trauma-Focused Psychotherapist and a Person-Centred Counsellor, specialised in complex trauma and associated PTSD. I offe a safe confidential space to explore any posttraumatic responses, suicidal thoughts, relationship issues and grief. I engage to meet your experiences with full acceptance, care and empathic understanding.
These adverse events can shatter everything you believe in, leaving you feeling lost, suicidal, not knowing who you are anymore.
I am a qualified Psychologist, Trauma-Focused Psychotherapist and a Person-Centred Counsellor, specialised in complex trauma and associated PTSD. I offe a safe confidential space to explore any posttraumatic responses, suicidal thoughts, relationship issues and grief. I engage to meet your experiences with full acceptance, care and empathic understanding.
01224 007819 View 01224 007819
Photo of Lynette Brice (In Safe Hands Counselling), Counsellor, MBACP
Lynette Brice (In Safe Hands Counselling)
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I have witnessed the high mental health conditions, suicidal ideation, including self-harm, and loss faced by LGBT+ individuals that I have counselled, along with the hurdles my son has encountered during his transition.
Accepting, safe and non-judgemental counselling service from an LGBT+ ally - I work towards my clients sensing acceptance, warmth, and safety when joining me in sessions. I possess an equal and inclusive belief, which conveys into my professional practice.
I have witnessed the high mental health conditions, suicidal ideation, including self-harm, and loss faced by LGBT+ individuals that I have counselled, along with the hurdles my son has encountered during his transition.
Accepting, safe and non-judgemental counselling service from an LGBT+ ally - I work towards my clients sensing acceptance, warmth, and safety when joining me in sessions. I possess an equal and inclusive belief, which conveys into my professional practice.
01275 409794 View 01275 409794
Photo of Lorna Ashley, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Lorna Ashley
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Swanley BR8
Extensive experience of loss as a Cruse bereavement volunteer & supervisor shift lead for a charity providing space for those feeling profoundly suicidal
Life can sometimes becomes overwhelming, what you thought you had a handle on can suddenly feel incredibly unbearable. Conflicting emotions or unhealthy behaviours can arise from self-expectations, family or peer pressure and the never ending demands of a 24/7 world. Whatever your age, background, race or culture, being heard and talking freely in a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space can be incredibly empowering in understanding who you are and making sense of the thoughts and feelings that arise. As an integrative counsellor, I am flexible in working with the best possible approach to achieve the best outcome for you.
Extensive experience of loss as a Cruse bereavement volunteer & supervisor shift lead for a charity providing space for those feeling profoundly suicidal
Life can sometimes becomes overwhelming, what you thought you had a handle on can suddenly feel incredibly unbearable. Conflicting emotions or unhealthy behaviours can arise from self-expectations, family or peer pressure and the never ending demands of a 24/7 world. Whatever your age, background, race or culture, being heard and talking freely in a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space can be incredibly empowering in understanding who you are and making sense of the thoughts and feelings that arise. As an integrative counsellor, I am flexible in working with the best possible approach to achieve the best outcome for you.
01322 923862 View 01322 923862
Photo of Pippa Moye, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Pippa Moye
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Loughton IG10
I support men and women in addiction recovery, those in suicidal crisis and other distress such as trauma, bereavement, OCD or panic attacks.
I interpret the world in terms of energy. This helps me to read individuals and situations accurately, and understand the feelings of others. My approach is spiritual. Yours does not have to be. I accept all paths that are based on respect for living things. I specialise in spiritual crisis and symptoms such as hearing voices or changes in sensory perception
I support men and women in addiction recovery, those in suicidal crisis and other distress such as trauma, bereavement, OCD or panic attacks.
I interpret the world in terms of energy. This helps me to read individuals and situations accurately, and understand the feelings of others. My approach is spiritual. Yours does not have to be. I accept all paths that are based on respect for living things. I specialise in spiritual crisis and symptoms such as hearing voices or changes in sensory perception
020 4538 2602 View 020 4538 2602
Photo of Mervyn Reid, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Mervyn Reid
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
London SE1
As an Adult, Child, Young Person, Couple and Family/Systemic Counsellor, I bring a lot of experience and a vast range of skills to support a wide range of people and presentations, from suicide and self-harm, depression and anxiety to trauma and self-identity work.
Hello, and well done making it this far. I am a light-hearted Counsellor, Trainer & Supervisor who is very easy to talk with. I have 20+ years of experience working with couples, young people, children, individuals, and families. I work via face-to-face, telephone or online sessions using an integrative approach that helps us apply the best support at the best time. As a client-directed Counsellor, I take your lead, tailoring our sessions to suit your needs—Telephone & Online services across the UK and Ireland. Give me a call or a text to arrange your free 15-minute consultation. Clinical Supervision & Consultation offered.
As an Adult, Child, Young Person, Couple and Family/Systemic Counsellor, I bring a lot of experience and a vast range of skills to support a wide range of people and presentations, from suicide and self-harm, depression and anxiety to trauma and self-identity work.
Hello, and well done making it this far. I am a light-hearted Counsellor, Trainer & Supervisor who is very easy to talk with. I have 20+ years of experience working with couples, young people, children, individuals, and families. I work via face-to-face, telephone or online sessions using an integrative approach that helps us apply the best support at the best time. As a client-directed Counsellor, I take your lead, tailoring our sessions to suit your needs—Telephone & Online services across the UK and Ireland. Give me a call or a text to arrange your free 15-minute consultation. Clinical Supervision & Consultation offered.
028 9694 3156 View 028 9694 3156
Photo of Flossie Budu-Frimpong - Bettertherapy Clinic (Remote), Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Bettertherapy Clinic (Remote)
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I can support people with anxiety, depressing, beareavement, end of life, having suicidal thoughts, selfharming, addiction,parenting,anti-social behaviours, developmental issues.
I am an Integrative systemic Counsellor Therapist with 6 years of experience supporting and addressing mental health and well being matters at hospitals, schools and communities through counselling, Therapy s and Coervices. I work with children, Young people, adults and families in various capacities providing and supporting their psychosocial and mental health needs. I provide individial and Group Coaching and therapy services to the Armed forces personals and their immediate families, migrants, and communities addressing their mental health and well being needs through coaching activites, counselling and therapy services.
I can support people with anxiety, depressing, beareavement, end of life, having suicidal thoughts, selfharming, addiction,parenting,anti-social behaviours, developmental issues.
I am an Integrative systemic Counsellor Therapist with 6 years of experience supporting and addressing mental health and well being matters at hospitals, schools and communities through counselling, Therapy s and Coervices. I work with children, Young people, adults and families in various capacities providing and supporting their psychosocial and mental health needs. I provide individial and Group Coaching and therapy services to the Armed forces personals and their immediate families, migrants, and communities addressing their mental health and well being needs through coaching activites, counselling and therapy services.
020 3947 9643 View 020 3947 9643
Photo of Adam Digby, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Adam Digby
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise in working with people who maybe struggling with low mood, depression, stress and anxiety as well as those people who maybe suffering with suicidal ideas and para- suicidal behaviours in combination or independently of the aforementioned conditions.
I am a Registered Counsellor & Specialist Consultant in Mental Health with over a decade and a half of experience helping adults & young people overcome difficulties impacting emotional well-being and mental health. I specialise in working with Individuals, Men and Young People (16y.o.a+). I deliberately keep the number of people I work with low and have found through experience, this allows me much greater flexibility when working with my clients. My fee structure as indicated is £80 per session (50 minutes) and £100 for our first session which runs longer at 90 minutes, giving us adequate time together on our first meeting.
I specialise in working with people who maybe struggling with low mood, depression, stress and anxiety as well as those people who maybe suffering with suicidal ideas and para- suicidal behaviours in combination or independently of the aforementioned conditions.
I am a Registered Counsellor & Specialist Consultant in Mental Health with over a decade and a half of experience helping adults & young people overcome difficulties impacting emotional well-being and mental health. I specialise in working with Individuals, Men and Young People (16y.o.a+). I deliberately keep the number of people I work with low and have found through experience, this allows me much greater flexibility when working with my clients. My fee structure as indicated is £80 per session (50 minutes) and £100 for our first session which runs longer at 90 minutes, giving us adequate time together on our first meeting.
01621 730608 View 01621 730608
Photo of Irene Brown-Martin, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Irene Brown-Martin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
London SE14
I have extensive experience in the assessment and management of self harm and suicidal ideation.
I am a clinical lead with 14 years of experience in working in NHS services. My years of experience has taught me that effective psychotherapy involves treatment that includes a bio psychosocial approach. Clients receive a comprehensive assessment, then collaboratively outline treatment goals. Treatment is always tailored to the individual person.
I have extensive experience in the assessment and management of self harm and suicidal ideation.
I am a clinical lead with 14 years of experience in working in NHS services. My years of experience has taught me that effective psychotherapy involves treatment that includes a bio psychosocial approach. Clients receive a comprehensive assessment, then collaboratively outline treatment goals. Treatment is always tailored to the individual person.
020 4538 8269 View 020 4538 8269
Photo of Mark Richard Bullock - From The Chair Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
From The Chair Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
suicidal thoughts and addiction.
I incorporate three different styles of counselling CBT ( Cognitive Behavioural Therapy )to help understand how our beliefs can determine our reaction too events .Person Centred Counselling to explore and understand your experience. Help you understand the conflict that’s been holding you back and Psychodynamic techniques too work with the past.
suicidal thoughts and addiction.
I incorporate three different styles of counselling CBT ( Cognitive Behavioural Therapy )to help understand how our beliefs can determine our reaction too events .Person Centred Counselling to explore and understand your experience. Help you understand the conflict that’s been holding you back and Psychodynamic techniques too work with the past.
07481 338732 View 07481 338732
Photo of Claire Ballard, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Claire Ballard
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Bromley BR1
I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of challenges, with a particular focus on anxiety, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, lack of purpose, suicidal thoughts and living with neurodivergence (e.g. ADHD and autism).
I am a counsellor and a researcher in psychology, combining my therapy practice with my in-depth understanding of the different factors affecting our mental health. I work in-person with adult clients in a lovely room in central Bromley and at a charity in Bickley. I also work online with clients from all over the UK.
I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of challenges, with a particular focus on anxiety, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, lack of purpose, suicidal thoughts and living with neurodivergence (e.g. ADHD and autism).
I am a counsellor and a researcher in psychology, combining my therapy practice with my in-depth understanding of the different factors affecting our mental health. I work in-person with adult clients in a lovely room in central Bromley and at a charity in Bickley. I also work online with clients from all over the UK.
020 3974 2304 View 020 3974 2304
Photo of Catherine Salvi Coombs - Surrey's Learning and Counselling Centre, Counsellor, SNCPS Acc.
Surrey's Learning and Counselling Centre
Counsellor, SNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
My personal journey has been painful, blighted and life changing so I can relate to most issues especially suicide.
I am a Senior Accredited Integrative Counsellor, Clinical Counselling Supervisor & Child & Young People's Therapist (CYPT) supporting individuals & families. Specialising in Neurodiversity; the range of brain function & differences, behavioural traits such as Autism A.S.D, ADHD/ADD, & SpLD supporting a wide range of issues. My approach to Well-being combines a unique blend of Person-centre, Psychodynamic & Psychoeducation. I also offer official diagnoses of Dyslexia and advise corporate & educational settings on mental health issues. I strive for equality & diversity creating an inclusive atmosphere for everyone.
My personal journey has been painful, blighted and life changing so I can relate to most issues especially suicide.
I am a Senior Accredited Integrative Counsellor, Clinical Counselling Supervisor & Child & Young People's Therapist (CYPT) supporting individuals & families. Specialising in Neurodiversity; the range of brain function & differences, behavioural traits such as Autism A.S.D, ADHD/ADD, & SpLD supporting a wide range of issues. My approach to Well-being combines a unique blend of Person-centre, Psychodynamic & Psychoeducation. I also offer official diagnoses of Dyslexia and advise corporate & educational settings on mental health issues. I strive for equality & diversity creating an inclusive atmosphere for everyone.
01306 773115 View 01306 773115
Photo of Georgie Morris, Counsellor, MBACP
Georgie Morris
Counsellor, MBACP
London EC1V
Supporting communities of people experiencing, addictions, neurodivergence, behavioural challenges, homelessness, crisis and suicidal ideation.
Hello and thank you for your curiosity. Perhaps you are questioning is this really it? Why am I yet to feel fulfilled, joyful and whole? You may be feeling misunderstood by your friends and family, or something is just ‘a little off’. Maybe you have visited your GP and now you have collected a psychiatric diagnosis, been prescribed medication however still don’t feel supported in ways in which you hoped. However you find yourself here and whatever tricky terrain you appear to be experiencing, you are Warmly Welcome!
Supporting communities of people experiencing, addictions, neurodivergence, behavioural challenges, homelessness, crisis and suicidal ideation.
Hello and thank you for your curiosity. Perhaps you are questioning is this really it? Why am I yet to feel fulfilled, joyful and whole? You may be feeling misunderstood by your friends and family, or something is just ‘a little off’. Maybe you have visited your GP and now you have collected a psychiatric diagnosis, been prescribed medication however still don’t feel supported in ways in which you hoped. However you find yourself here and whatever tricky terrain you appear to be experiencing, you are Warmly Welcome!
020 4538 6196 View 020 4538 6196
Photo of Katya Jezzard-Puyraud, Counsellor, MBACP
Katya Jezzard-Puyraud
Counsellor, MBACP
I have worked for several years with Counselling Matters Bexley and Westmeria Counselling and am trained to work with suicidal clients & survivors of sexual abuse & trauma.
I’m a psychotherapeutic counsellor & mindfulness instructor. I am passionate about working with women and men with depression, anxiety or trauma such as sexual abuse, childhood trauma, domestic violence or suicide. My aim is for you to feel heard and accepted. This may be the first time you've spoken to anyone about what you're going through, so I offer a place to process your experiences, helping you to gently come to terms with the feelings you are facing. Our sessions will allow you to understand how your experiences have affected your feelings, behaviour and relationships, providing you with coping strategies for the future.
I have worked for several years with Counselling Matters Bexley and Westmeria Counselling and am trained to work with suicidal clients & survivors of sexual abuse & trauma.
I’m a psychotherapeutic counsellor & mindfulness instructor. I am passionate about working with women and men with depression, anxiety or trauma such as sexual abuse, childhood trauma, domestic violence or suicide. My aim is for you to feel heard and accepted. This may be the first time you've spoken to anyone about what you're going through, so I offer a place to process your experiences, helping you to gently come to terms with the feelings you are facing. Our sessions will allow you to understand how your experiences have affected your feelings, behaviour and relationships, providing you with coping strategies for the future.
01892 362247 View 01892 362247
Photo of Beccy Jackson, Counsellor, MBACP
Beccy Jackson
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Trained in Single Session Therapy, trained to work with self harm and suicidal feelings, trained to work with survivors of abuse.
Helping make sense of your world. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or struggling to make sense of life right now? Perhaps you’re finding it hard to trust your own judgment, struggling with low self-esteem, or carrying the impact of a negative or abusive relationship. If so, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to face it alone either. As a qualified Humanistic and Integrative Counsellor, I offer a safe, confidential, and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. Sessions are available via telephone, online video, or live chat (Teams) — whichever feels best for you.
Trained in Single Session Therapy, trained to work with self harm and suicidal feelings, trained to work with survivors of abuse.
Helping make sense of your world. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or struggling to make sense of life right now? Perhaps you’re finding it hard to trust your own judgment, struggling with low self-esteem, or carrying the impact of a negative or abusive relationship. If so, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to face it alone either. As a qualified Humanistic and Integrative Counsellor, I offer a safe, confidential, and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. Sessions are available via telephone, online video, or live chat (Teams) — whichever feels best for you.
01622 234665 View 01622 234665
Photo of Samantha Richardson, Counsellor, MBACP
Samantha Richardson
Counsellor, MBACP
I have school experience working in SEN with neurodivergence; addiction services and criminal justice supporting with alcohol and substance misuse, complex mental health including anxiety and depression, ADHD, ASD, intrusive, suicidal thoughts, self-harm.
Feeling nobody quite "Gets YOU?" Impulsive, unmotivated, head spiriling, ruminating, masking due to ADHD/ASD? Drugs or alcohol used to self medicate, relax or cope with stress but now noticed its getting out of control? Anxiety, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts starting to control your life but not sure the trigger? Or do you just have a sense something is wrong but struggle to open up or express how you feel to your partner, family or friends? The beauty of talking to a counsellor is I am neutral and independent of your situation which can make it easier to open up and explore your feelings and thoughts.
I have school experience working in SEN with neurodivergence; addiction services and criminal justice supporting with alcohol and substance misuse, complex mental health including anxiety and depression, ADHD, ASD, intrusive, suicidal thoughts, self-harm.
Feeling nobody quite "Gets YOU?" Impulsive, unmotivated, head spiriling, ruminating, masking due to ADHD/ASD? Drugs or alcohol used to self medicate, relax or cope with stress but now noticed its getting out of control? Anxiety, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts starting to control your life but not sure the trigger? Or do you just have a sense something is wrong but struggle to open up or express how you feel to your partner, family or friends? The beauty of talking to a counsellor is I am neutral and independent of your situation which can make it easier to open up and explore your feelings and thoughts.
01634 557411 View 01634 557411
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.