Suicidal Ideation Counselling in Edinburgh

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 Mervyn Reid, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Mervyn Reid
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
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 Maegann Jaworski, Counsellor, MBACP
Maegann Jaworski
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
I have also worked with many clients who live with suicidal ideation, depression, and grief and loss.
My approach is rooted in being non-judgemental and kind, allowing you to safely express your thoughts and process both past and present experiences. In using an integrative approach, I strive to provide a 'soft place to land' for those looking to explore how their lived experience has impacted who they are today.
I have also worked with many clients who live with suicidal ideation, depression, and grief and loss.
My approach is rooted in being non-judgemental and kind, allowing you to safely express your thoughts and process both past and present experiences. In using an integrative approach, I strive to provide a 'soft place to land' for those looking to explore how their lived experience has impacted who they are today.
01934 316739 View 01934 316739
Photo of Aaradhya Srivastava - Aaradhya, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Aaradhya
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I have worked with a range of clients who have experienced anxiety, stress, sexual violence, suicidal thoughts and ideations, self-harm, bereavement, social and racial issues and others.
Feeling alone and disconnected – whether it’s from yourself or others – can be very difficult. Many of us carry wounds from feeling unheard, unseen or like we don’t fit neatly into society’s assumptions and expectations. It can be overwhelming to think about things that may be causing stress and anxiety, or make sense of painful memories and past experiences that still show up in the present. I believe that therapy begins with connection – with building a relationship in an environment that is safe enough to show up just as you are, even with the parts of yourself that feel messy, uncomfortable, and hard to name.
I have worked with a range of clients who have experienced anxiety, stress, sexual violence, suicidal thoughts and ideations, self-harm, bereavement, social and racial issues and others.
Feeling alone and disconnected – whether it’s from yourself or others – can be very difficult. Many of us carry wounds from feeling unheard, unseen or like we don’t fit neatly into society’s assumptions and expectations. It can be overwhelming to think about things that may be causing stress and anxiety, or make sense of painful memories and past experiences that still show up in the present. I believe that therapy begins with connection – with building a relationship in an environment that is safe enough to show up just as you are, even with the parts of yourself that feel messy, uncomfortable, and hard to name.
0131 381 5133 View 0131 381 5133
Photo of Kelly Stewart, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Kelly Stewart
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
I'm currently doing a PhD (at the University of Edinburgh) on the intergenerational trauma of suicide in families.
I wonder what brings you here? Life can throw things at us that challenge, block or trigger us, beyond our capacity to work it through ourselves. I’m glad you’re here, seeking support. It’s not an easy journey, therapy. Worthwhile though (in my humble opinion) if you can find the right person to work with. I firmly believe, whatever is going on for you, within each of us lies innate potential beyond our imagination. I always feel honoured to walk alongside people as they unpack and explore their struggles at depths rarely reached in non-therapeutic relationships. My goal is to offer you this uniquely safe space to do this.
I'm currently doing a PhD (at the University of Edinburgh) on the intergenerational trauma of suicide in families.
I wonder what brings you here? Life can throw things at us that challenge, block or trigger us, beyond our capacity to work it through ourselves. I’m glad you’re here, seeking support. It’s not an easy journey, therapy. Worthwhile though (in my humble opinion) if you can find the right person to work with. I firmly believe, whatever is going on for you, within each of us lies innate potential beyond our imagination. I always feel honoured to walk alongside people as they unpack and explore their struggles at depths rarely reached in non-therapeutic relationships. My goal is to offer you this uniquely safe space to do this.
01764 915873 View 01764 915873
Photo of Sarah Miles, Counsellor, BACP
Sarah Miles
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH12
I have clinical experience in supporting clients through a range of difficulties including relationship problems, anxiety, depression, bereavement, affairs and betrayals, isolation, addiction, religious trauma, stress, work-related issues and suicidal thoughts.
I work with individuals as well as couples. Trained as an integrative counsellor working from a base of multiple theoretic perspectives including Attachment Theory, Transactional Analysis, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic and Person-Centred which allows me to tailor my approach based on the needs of individual clients or couples.
I have clinical experience in supporting clients through a range of difficulties including relationship problems, anxiety, depression, bereavement, affairs and betrayals, isolation, addiction, religious trauma, stress, work-related issues and suicidal thoughts.
I work with individuals as well as couples. Trained as an integrative counsellor working from a base of multiple theoretic perspectives including Attachment Theory, Transactional Analysis, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic and Person-Centred which allows me to tailor my approach based on the needs of individual clients or couples.
0131 381 2254 View 0131 381 2254
Photo of Hsin-Shao Chang, Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Hsin-Shao Chang
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, whether you’re carrying the weight of grief, navigating the pain of losing a loved one to suicide, or feeling lost as you adjust to a new culture or question your identity.
I specialize in supporting those who have lost a loved one to suicide, helping them make sense of their grief and find a way forward. I also work with individuals adjusting to new cultures or grappling with questions of identity, offering guidance and understanding as they navigate these deeply personal journeys.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, whether you’re carrying the weight of grief, navigating the pain of losing a loved one to suicide, or feeling lost as you adjust to a new culture or question your identity.
I specialize in supporting those who have lost a loved one to suicide, helping them make sense of their grief and find a way forward. I also work with individuals adjusting to new cultures or grappling with questions of identity, offering guidance and understanding as they navigate these deeply personal journeys.
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Photo of Sarah Worth, Counsellor, MSc, ACC Reg
Sarah Worth
Counsellor, MSc, ACC Reg
I have experience working with anxiety, panic attacks, self harm, suicidal thoughts, depression, boundaries, pregnancy crisis and loss, post abortion, relational issues, trauma and other areas.
I don’t know if you have ever had the opportunity to share your story where someone really listens. I mean really listens, wanting to know you, your story, your ups and downs. Where nothing is off limits. Space to speak what maybe you’ve never spoken before. Sitting in the counsellee seat is not always easy and opening up to someone you do not know can be daunting. I know that taking that first step requires courage and I would love to walk with you on your journey.
I have experience working with anxiety, panic attacks, self harm, suicidal thoughts, depression, boundaries, pregnancy crisis and loss, post abortion, relational issues, trauma and other areas.
I don’t know if you have ever had the opportunity to share your story where someone really listens. I mean really listens, wanting to know you, your story, your ups and downs. Where nothing is off limits. Space to speak what maybe you’ve never spoken before. Sitting in the counsellee seat is not always easy and opening up to someone you do not know can be daunting. I know that taking that first step requires courage and I would love to walk with you on your journey.
0131 381 0082 View 0131 381 0082
Photo of Tina Cameron - Cameron Counselling, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Cameron Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Edinburgh EH10
I am trained to work with people who are suicidal
I work with people of all ages, but love helping young people address problems early enough to help prevent them resurfacing later in life. I offer psychodynamic and person-centred therapy with a pragmatic and flexible approach designed to work with you to address your individual needs. We are all individuals and what works for one may not work for another.©
I am trained to work with people who are suicidal
I work with people of all ages, but love helping young people address problems early enough to help prevent them resurfacing later in life. I offer psychodynamic and person-centred therapy with a pragmatic and flexible approach designed to work with you to address your individual needs. We are all individuals and what works for one may not work for another.©
0131 357 6341 View 0131 357 6341
Photo of Catriona Glen, Counsellor, MBACP
Catriona Glen
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I understand the unique developmental needs and challenges faced by a younger age group regularly exploring issues around self-esteem, social anxiety, general anxiety, anger, loss, attachment issues, self- harm, suicidal ideation, sexual abuse and neuro-divergence.
How we cope when we feel vulnerable, invalidated, scared, lonely, betrayed etc. can feel out of our control. We do what we can to feel safe. Avoiding feeling vulnerable can show up in many ways. It might be self-soothing in ways we know aren’t helpful, anxiety making our life smaller, anger, self-isolating by rejecting people before they reject us etc.
I understand the unique developmental needs and challenges faced by a younger age group regularly exploring issues around self-esteem, social anxiety, general anxiety, anger, loss, attachment issues, self- harm, suicidal ideation, sexual abuse and neuro-divergence.
How we cope when we feel vulnerable, invalidated, scared, lonely, betrayed etc. can feel out of our control. We do what we can to feel safe. Avoiding feeling vulnerable can show up in many ways. It might be self-soothing in ways we know aren’t helpful, anxiety making our life smaller, anger, self-isolating by rejecting people before they reject us etc.
01383 661320 View 01383 661320
Photo of Eloise Slaven, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Eloise Slaven
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I work with adults experiencing a range of issues, including addiction, life transitions, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts and trauma, to name but a few.
I am here to help guide and facilitate everything you already have and need within you, by building a strong foundation of trust and safety. Every client is unique, as is their needs, goals, life experiences and personal circumstances. I will work closely with you to ensure we engage in the right kind of work, completely tailored to your needs.
I work with adults experiencing a range of issues, including addiction, life transitions, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts and trauma, to name but a few.
I am here to help guide and facilitate everything you already have and need within you, by building a strong foundation of trust and safety. Every client is unique, as is their needs, goals, life experiences and personal circumstances. I will work closely with you to ensure we engage in the right kind of work, completely tailored to your needs.
01592 809752 View 01592 809752
Photo of Martyn Pars, Counsellor, MBACP
Martyn Pars
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
During this time I worked with a range of mental health issues from stress, anxiety, depression, relationships through to self harm, suicidal thoughts, gender, autism, ADHD, dyslexia and more.
My Offer To You: Being heard, understood, believed in and supported. We all need this kind of support at some point in our lives. This is my offer to you. I am an accredited professional registrant counsellor psychotherapist (PNCPS acc.) registered through the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP reg) which means I am held on the Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register thus ensuring protection to the public. I am a BUPA and Harley Street Online registered therapist and I have a particular interest in those with later in life ADHD diagnosis or suspect they might be
During this time I worked with a range of mental health issues from stress, anxiety, depression, relationships through to self harm, suicidal thoughts, gender, autism, ADHD, dyslexia and more.
My Offer To You: Being heard, understood, believed in and supported. We all need this kind of support at some point in our lives. This is my offer to you. I am an accredited professional registrant counsellor psychotherapist (PNCPS acc.) registered through the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP reg) which means I am held on the Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register thus ensuring protection to the public. I am a BUPA and Harley Street Online registered therapist and I have a particular interest in those with later in life ADHD diagnosis or suspect they might be
01242 507893 View 01242 507893
Photo of Dr David Cunningham - Counselling Psychology Scotland, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Counselling Psychology Scotland
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS, I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues.
I will take time to understand your difficulties and work with you to find the best approach by integrating several therapies and techniques. I’m committed to creating a respectful and safe space. I offer affirmative gender dysphoria assessments and diagnoses, as well as ADHD assessments and diagnoses and post-diagnosis support.
With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS, I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues.
I will take time to understand your difficulties and work with you to find the best approach by integrating several therapies and techniques. I’m committed to creating a respectful and safe space. I offer affirmative gender dysphoria assessments and diagnoses, as well as ADHD assessments and diagnoses and post-diagnosis support.
01479 787946 View 01479 787946
Photo of Asifa Nicoll, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Asifa Nicoll
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I understand how life's challenges can affect every part of us, I've also worked extensively with young people & families in education settings addressing issues such as trauma, suicide, self harm, loss & bullying.
I offer a holistic & integrative approach to healing that includes: Counselling, Hypnotherapy, Soul Plan & Energy Work. My intention is to hold space in the "Here & Now" while also recognising how past experiences shape the present. You are not just a problem to be fixed - you are a whole person with a story that deserves to be seen, heard & understood.
I understand how life's challenges can affect every part of us, I've also worked extensively with young people & families in education settings addressing issues such as trauma, suicide, self harm, loss & bullying.
I offer a holistic & integrative approach to healing that includes: Counselling, Hypnotherapy, Soul Plan & Energy Work. My intention is to hold space in the "Here & Now" while also recognising how past experiences shape the present. You are not just a problem to be fixed - you are a whole person with a story that deserves to be seen, heard & understood.
01592 407493 View 01592 407493
Photo of Heather Redwood, Counsellor, MBACP
Heather Redwood
Counsellor, MBACP
5 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, and welcome! I offer psychotherapeutic counselling to adults in Edinburgh. At the heart of my practice is a fundamental belief in and respect for your agency, intuition, and your capacity to heal and grow in uniquely meaningful ways. My approach is collaborative and I will relate to you as expert in your own process. I will listen without judgement, I won’t make assumptions about what’s best for you, and I invite you to arrive in our sessions just as you are.
Hello, and welcome! I offer psychotherapeutic counselling to adults in Edinburgh. At the heart of my practice is a fundamental belief in and respect for your agency, intuition, and your capacity to heal and grow in uniquely meaningful ways. My approach is collaborative and I will relate to you as expert in your own process. I will listen without judgement, I won’t make assumptions about what’s best for you, and I invite you to arrive in our sessions just as you are.
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Photo of Craig Wilson - Craig Wilson - Headwinds Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
It can be difficult to give ourselves the space to heal... to feel worthy of it. But, when we take shelter from the headwind we can peel back some layers, carefully set out our map, light a candle, and give ourselves time to determine the best way forward. I work with those feeling weary, anxious, lonely and lost; those with wounds to heal and those seeking... understanding, their pathway or a renewed spark. Clients often comment at the end of sessions that their thoughts are simplified, they feel more regulated emotionally and have improved hope and motivation.
It can be difficult to give ourselves the space to heal... to feel worthy of it. But, when we take shelter from the headwind we can peel back some layers, carefully set out our map, light a candle, and give ourselves time to determine the best way forward. I work with those feeling weary, anxious, lonely and lost; those with wounds to heal and those seeking... understanding, their pathway or a renewed spark. Clients often comment at the end of sessions that their thoughts are simplified, they feel more regulated emotionally and have improved hope and motivation.
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Photo of Pippa Watson Rees, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Pippa Watson Rees
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Integrating 30 years of clinical experience & professional training I work with adults, new parents & couples who experience difficulties in their relationships, becoming a parent, or dealing with what life is bringing. As well as 23 years counselling I am a qualified NHS psychosocial Occupational Therapist with experience in SEND, Neurodiversity, & mental health. I offer a safe space to explore your difficulties using a relational & integrative approach based in the psychodynamic tradition. We can explore your current problems & how your past may be affecting you, within the context of an ongoing safe professional relationship.
Integrating 30 years of clinical experience & professional training I work with adults, new parents & couples who experience difficulties in their relationships, becoming a parent, or dealing with what life is bringing. As well as 23 years counselling I am a qualified NHS psychosocial Occupational Therapist with experience in SEND, Neurodiversity, & mental health. I offer a safe space to explore your difficulties using a relational & integrative approach based in the psychodynamic tradition. We can explore your current problems & how your past may be affecting you, within the context of an ongoing safe professional relationship.
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Photo of Mal Zbikowska - Family Psychotherapy, MSc
Family Psychotherapy
Verified Verified
Hello, my name is Mal Zbikowska, I’m a qualified Systemic Family Psychotherapist and a founder of Family Psychotherapy. I love seeing people grow and achieve their potential. Working relationally not only is my passion but also part of my value base. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of joining families, couples and individuals on their journey to closer connections, self-awareness, and acceptance that fostered deeper insights and understanding.
Hello, my name is Mal Zbikowska, I’m a qualified Systemic Family Psychotherapist and a founder of Family Psychotherapy. I love seeing people grow and achieve their potential. Working relationally not only is my passion but also part of my value base. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of joining families, couples and individuals on their journey to closer connections, self-awareness, and acceptance that fostered deeper insights and understanding.
0131 381 6356 View 0131 381 6356
Photo of Matthew Scott James Boyce - Matthew Boyce Counselling, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Matthew Boyce Counselling
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Hello! I aspire to work with anyone seeking to understand themselves better by working with your issues - working with the Person-Centred approach I aim to meet you as you are: Wholly, and without judgement. I have a natural curiosity for people, and seek to use this to help facilitate change, growth, and healing. I'm experienced working with individuals processing grief, trauma, loss, addiction, depression, anxiety, and questioning identity. The goal of our therapy is what you want it to be - that could be a deeper understanding of your self, healing trauma events, or tools and coping strategies.
Hello! I aspire to work with anyone seeking to understand themselves better by working with your issues - working with the Person-Centred approach I aim to meet you as you are: Wholly, and without judgement. I have a natural curiosity for people, and seek to use this to help facilitate change, growth, and healing. I'm experienced working with individuals processing grief, trauma, loss, addiction, depression, anxiety, and questioning identity. The goal of our therapy is what you want it to be - that could be a deeper understanding of your self, healing trauma events, or tools and coping strategies.
0131 381 3616 View 0131 381 3616
Photo of Diana Sim, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Diana Sim
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
I am a well respected psychodynamic psychotherapist and counsellor in Edinburgh, with over 20 years of experience. I am deeply passionate about the transformative power of therapy and tenacious in my belief that change is possible. My special areas of expertise are young people and transitions, family issues, parenting issues including pre and post-partum experiences and work related issues. I offer a reduced cost service to students as I know that affordability for good quality counselling can be an issue. For the past 18 years I have specialised in working with staff and students in a higher education setting.
I am a well respected psychodynamic psychotherapist and counsellor in Edinburgh, with over 20 years of experience. I am deeply passionate about the transformative power of therapy and tenacious in my belief that change is possible. My special areas of expertise are young people and transitions, family issues, parenting issues including pre and post-partum experiences and work related issues. I offer a reduced cost service to students as I know that affordability for good quality counselling can be an issue. For the past 18 years I have specialised in working with staff and students in a higher education setting.
0131 381 8755 View 0131 381 8755

See more therapy options for Edinburgh

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.