Suicidal Ideation Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Jay Alarcon, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jay Alarcon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
I specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as: PTSD, Severe Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, and Personality Disorders.
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you want and deserve. I am guided by evidence based techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to nurture my clients’ sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence. I help individuals tap into their inner strength and thrive, to connect to their passions, couples seeking effective communication techniques and highly sensitive people understand their trait and harness their superpower! I support individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations, navigate cultural challenges
I specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as: PTSD, Severe Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, and Personality Disorders.
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you want and deserve. I am guided by evidence based techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to nurture my clients’ sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence. I help individuals tap into their inner strength and thrive, to connect to their passions, couples seeking effective communication techniques and highly sensitive people understand their trait and harness their superpower! I support individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations, navigate cultural challenges
(858) 360-8251 View (858) 360-8251
Photo of Sophia Rodriguez, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Sophia Rodriguez
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in freeing women from anxiety, depression, body image, grief, and suicidal thoughts.
I have a genuine desire to help women discover who they are and who they want to become. In therapy, you will learn how to conquer your fear and worry, build self esteem, mend relationships, and be mindful and present. My approach is a combination of evidence based modalities and a deep exploration into your past experiences and defenses to reclaim control.
I specialize in freeing women from anxiety, depression, body image, grief, and suicidal thoughts.
I have a genuine desire to help women discover who they are and who they want to become. In therapy, you will learn how to conquer your fear and worry, build self esteem, mend relationships, and be mindful and present. My approach is a combination of evidence based modalities and a deep exploration into your past experiences and defenses to reclaim control.
(415) 993-7037 View (415) 993-7037
Photo of Ghazaleh Elyaszadeh, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ghazaleh Elyaszadeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked and treated many different clients who presented with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, bipolar and borderline symptoms.
I use different approaches to provide therapy such as psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and solution focused therapy.
I have worked and treated many different clients who presented with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, bipolar and borderline symptoms.
I use different approaches to provide therapy such as psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and solution focused therapy.
(858) 533-7988 View (858) 533-7988
Photo of Jonnetta Thomas - Cyti Psychological , Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cyti Psychological
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Being a Licensed Mental Health Therapist has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and diagnosis from all cultures facing many of life stressors including, anxiety, suicidal ideations, trauma, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, interpersonal relationship, addictions and eating disorders.
Let’s face it! Putting together the huge jigsaw puzzle called life can be a bit challenging. Connecting all the pieces to see the whole picture, while trying make sense of traumatic events can leave you feeling emotionally paralyzed. Please know that you are not alone and there is hope. Change is at your fingertips. Reaching out is the first courageous step to activating change.
Being a Licensed Mental Health Therapist has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and diagnosis from all cultures facing many of life stressors including, anxiety, suicidal ideations, trauma, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, interpersonal relationship, addictions and eating disorders.
Let’s face it! Putting together the huge jigsaw puzzle called life can be a bit challenging. Connecting all the pieces to see the whole picture, while trying make sense of traumatic events can leave you feeling emotionally paralyzed. Please know that you are not alone and there is hope. Change is at your fingertips. Reaching out is the first courageous step to activating change.
(858) 227-6110 View (858) 227-6110
Photo of Dr. Joshua Morrison, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Joshua Morrison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation.
I am a psychologist, writer, and proud father of twins who primarily works in a psychiatric hospital setting. There, I aid adults in navigating severe mental health crises. A common theme has been helping such individuals harness their inner creativity to reduce shame and, in its wake, generate celebratory connections with themselves, others, and the world.
Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation.
I am a psychologist, writer, and proud father of twins who primarily works in a psychiatric hospital setting. There, I aid adults in navigating severe mental health crises. A common theme has been helping such individuals harness their inner creativity to reduce shame and, in its wake, generate celebratory connections with themselves, others, and the world.
(619) 815-4658 View (619) 815-4658
Photo of Marion Herzog, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Marion Herzog
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I work with clients who are within the LGBTQIA community, who may be struggling with suicidal ideation and/or life transitions.
Hello! I commend you for taking this step. I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, identity work/exploration, and how all of this can impact community and societal views. I strongly believe that the client is the expert of their own life, and I hope to make therapy a collaborative process as opposed to the therapist being seen as the sole person with all the answers. I also strongly believe that society has an impact on how we view ourselves in the world. This can often not alight with our own beliefs or how we identify. As a result, we often have conversations regarding deconstructing societal ideas.
I work with clients who are within the LGBTQIA community, who may be struggling with suicidal ideation and/or life transitions.
Hello! I commend you for taking this step. I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, identity work/exploration, and how all of this can impact community and societal views. I strongly believe that the client is the expert of their own life, and I hope to make therapy a collaborative process as opposed to the therapist being seen as the sole person with all the answers. I also strongly believe that society has an impact on how we view ourselves in the world. This can often not alight with our own beliefs or how we identify. As a result, we often have conversations regarding deconstructing societal ideas.
(858) 771-8792 View (858) 771-8792
Photo of Jessica Marthaller, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
Jessica Marthaller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with people navigating recent stressors, trauma, anger, frustration, or suicidal thoughts.
I bring my authentic self to our sessions, often using humor to build rapport and make the process feel less overwhelming. I believe in "practicing what you preach" and incorporate my favorite therapeutic skills into my daily life. My experience spans working with diverse populations and individuals of all ages.
I work with people navigating recent stressors, trauma, anger, frustration, or suicidal thoughts.
I bring my authentic self to our sessions, often using humor to build rapport and make the process feel less overwhelming. I believe in "practicing what you preach" and incorporate my favorite therapeutic skills into my daily life. My experience spans working with diverse populations and individuals of all ages.
(727) 761-9098 View (727) 761-9098
Photo of Keir Calvert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Keir Calvert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have vast experience having had the opportunity to work with adults and adolescents in crisis intervention, PTSD, trauma, domestic violence, suicidal ideations, depression, and anxiety.
Hello, my name is Keir Calvert and I have been working as an LCSW for the past 9 years. My approach is to help find the things that aren’t working in your life and find the tools to make the changes to lead a happier more fulfilling life. In providing therapy I strive to make my clients feel heard, and then actively work towards change. I use many theoretical approaches including, but not limited to CBT, DBT, goal-oriented, solution-focused, mindfulness, and motivational awareness.
I have vast experience having had the opportunity to work with adults and adolescents in crisis intervention, PTSD, trauma, domestic violence, suicidal ideations, depression, and anxiety.
Hello, my name is Keir Calvert and I have been working as an LCSW for the past 9 years. My approach is to help find the things that aren’t working in your life and find the tools to make the changes to lead a happier more fulfilling life. In providing therapy I strive to make my clients feel heard, and then actively work towards change. I use many theoretical approaches including, but not limited to CBT, DBT, goal-oriented, solution-focused, mindfulness, and motivational awareness.
(747) 245-3671 View (747) 245-3671
Photo of Leticia Vasquez-Zurita, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leticia Vasquez-Zurita
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in teens, families, and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, trauma, family conflicts, anger, and life transitions.
Hello! My name is Leticia. I am a bilingual therapist in California, specifically in the Central Valley. I am a first-generation immigrant from Mexico. My experiences as an immigrant, English learner, and advocate/interpreter for my family have shaped who I am, not only in my personal life but in my professional life as well. I am passionate about helping others achieve their goals to live a fulfilling life. My services are tailored to a busy lifestyle by offering sessions both online, in-person, evenings, and weekends.
I specialize in teens, families, and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, trauma, family conflicts, anger, and life transitions.
Hello! My name is Leticia. I am a bilingual therapist in California, specifically in the Central Valley. I am a first-generation immigrant from Mexico. My experiences as an immigrant, English learner, and advocate/interpreter for my family have shaped who I am, not only in my personal life but in my professional life as well. I am passionate about helping others achieve their goals to live a fulfilling life. My services are tailored to a busy lifestyle by offering sessions both online, in-person, evenings, and weekends.
(747) 966-5978 View (747) 966-5978
Photo of Shari L Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shari L Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged, and better able to cope with struggles due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & Complex PTSD, Childhood Emotional Neglect, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/autism spectrum, Relationship conflict, People Pleasing, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality & LGBTQ/ Diversity issues.
I can help you heal emotional wounds & improve self-worth while focusing on YOUR unique goals & needs. Let's "unpack" your past experiences & process those painful emotions...I utilize my specialized training in DBT, CBT, Mindful Self-Compassion, somatic therapy approach, Inner Child work and other Trauma-informed practices to guide your therapeutic journey.
My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged, and better able to cope with struggles due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & Complex PTSD, Childhood Emotional Neglect, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/autism spectrum, Relationship conflict, People Pleasing, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality & LGBTQ/ Diversity issues.
I can help you heal emotional wounds & improve self-worth while focusing on YOUR unique goals & needs. Let's "unpack" your past experiences & process those painful emotions...I utilize my specialized training in DBT, CBT, Mindful Self-Compassion, somatic therapy approach, Inner Child work and other Trauma-informed practices to guide your therapeutic journey.
(858) 251-6552 View (858) 251-6552
Photo of Dominique Giambalvo - Dominique Giambalvo @ Grow Through Life Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Dominique Giambalvo @ Grow Through Life Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Dominique utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a primary framework, while also bringing expertise in play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), art therapy, and suicide prevention.
Dominique Giambalvo is a dedicated mental health professional with extensive experience providing therapy to children, families, and individuals of all ages. Passionate about supporting mental wellness, she specializes in working with children on the autism spectrum and those who have experienced trauma. Dominique fosters emotional growth and healing through a client-centered, strengths-based, and humanistic approach. She is particularly skilled in working with young clients, drawing on training with children as young as 2.
Dominique utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a primary framework, while also bringing expertise in play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), art therapy, and suicide prevention.
Dominique Giambalvo is a dedicated mental health professional with extensive experience providing therapy to children, families, and individuals of all ages. Passionate about supporting mental wellness, she specializes in working with children on the autism spectrum and those who have experienced trauma. Dominique fosters emotional growth and healing through a client-centered, strengths-based, and humanistic approach. She is particularly skilled in working with young clients, drawing on training with children as young as 2.
(619) 949-1948 View (619) 949-1948
Photo of Sarah Izaguirre, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Sarah Izaguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
I have worked with children, teenagers, adults and families on a variety of issues including depression, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, anxiety, suicide, sexuality and grief.
Working with children, teenagers, adults, and families has been my priority for the past decade in order to help them develop the skills they need to build healthy lives. My goal is to create a safe environment in which individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and free of judgment. I believe in working as a team in order to help each person develop insight in themselves and their situation, while cultivating their strengths, and highlighting their resiliency. When needed, I involve parents, families, psychiatrists, and physicians in order to ensure collaboration to increase the client's support within treatment.
I have worked with children, teenagers, adults and families on a variety of issues including depression, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, anxiety, suicide, sexuality and grief.
Working with children, teenagers, adults, and families has been my priority for the past decade in order to help them develop the skills they need to build healthy lives. My goal is to create a safe environment in which individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and free of judgment. I believe in working as a team in order to help each person develop insight in themselves and their situation, while cultivating their strengths, and highlighting their resiliency. When needed, I involve parents, families, psychiatrists, and physicians in order to ensure collaboration to increase the client's support within treatment.
(619) 598-1117 View (619) 598-1117
Photo of Julia Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Julia Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110
I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas.
I am one of the few therapists in the area that offers TEXTING, email and VIDEO therapy sessions. Call me for more details, or check my website at www.juliamendozalmft.com
I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas.
I am one of the few therapists in the area that offers TEXTING, email and VIDEO therapy sessions. Call me for more details, or check my website at www.juliamendozalmft.com
(951) 438-7873 View (951) 438-7873
Photo of Jordan D Danly, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jordan D Danly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm.
Over the past 10 years, I have received training and experience in working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have extensive experience working with mood/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, gender issues, and high conflict couples. I have received specialized training in DBT, Prolonged Exposure, and L2 Gottman Method for couples.
I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm.
Over the past 10 years, I have received training and experience in working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have extensive experience working with mood/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, gender issues, and high conflict couples. I have received specialized training in DBT, Prolonged Exposure, and L2 Gottman Method for couples.
(858) 252-0503 View (858) 252-0503
Photo of Stacey Sherrell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Stacey Sherrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
I specialize in sudden and traumatic loss (survivors of suicide, homicide, accidents) and survivors of sexual assault and abuse.
Struggling to adjust to a major life change? I help people who are experiencing anxiety, sadness, indecision and/or isolation stemming from a shift that has happened in their life. Whether it is a recent or pending break up, the loss of a loved one, or a recent move, change can be extremely challenging and anxiety provoking. Therapy gives you the space to talk about what's going on in your life and gives you the opportunity to learn new tools so you can successfully deal with what you're experiencing. It's easy to get trapped in unproductive patterns when you aren't where you thought you'd be in life, and therapy can stop that.
I specialize in sudden and traumatic loss (survivors of suicide, homicide, accidents) and survivors of sexual assault and abuse.
Struggling to adjust to a major life change? I help people who are experiencing anxiety, sadness, indecision and/or isolation stemming from a shift that has happened in their life. Whether it is a recent or pending break up, the loss of a loved one, or a recent move, change can be extremely challenging and anxiety provoking. Therapy gives you the space to talk about what's going on in your life and gives you the opportunity to learn new tools so you can successfully deal with what you're experiencing. It's easy to get trapped in unproductive patterns when you aren't where you thought you'd be in life, and therapy can stop that.
(818) 474-2721 View (818) 474-2721
Photo of Shelby Swan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shelby Swan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Waitlist for new clients
I like to focus on treating children/adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideations.
I am a San Diego native and am happy to be back in San Diego after going to school in North Carolina. I enjoys spending quality time with my family, particularly my young niece and nephew. I also enjoys spending time with my dog at the beach on the weekends.
I like to focus on treating children/adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideations.
I am a San Diego native and am happy to be back in San Diego after going to school in North Carolina. I enjoys spending quality time with my family, particularly my young niece and nephew. I also enjoys spending time with my dog at the beach on the weekends.
(858) 267-4186 View (858) 267-4186
Photo of Sherri Ardekani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DBT-LBC
Sherri Ardekani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
A history of trauma, addictions, compulsions, suicidal thoughts, self-harm and other life-interfering behaviors can do that.
Evidenced based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), provide the therapeutic framework of understanding our thoughts and behaviors. I provide structured individual and group therapy that teach coping skills to be used immediately and when in distress.
A history of trauma, addictions, compulsions, suicidal thoughts, self-harm and other life-interfering behaviors can do that.
Evidenced based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), provide the therapeutic framework of understanding our thoughts and behaviors. I provide structured individual and group therapy that teach coping skills to be used immediately and when in distress.
(314) 802-4722 View (314) 802-4722
Photo of Lauren Thibodeau, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Lauren Thibodeau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Are you struggling with your relationships, sexual orientation, gender identity, cultural identity, guilt, shame, anxiety, panic symptoms, trauma, unresolved abuse, self-hate, suicidal thoughts, hopelessness, grief and loss, chronic pain, or autoimmune disorders?
Lauren is a genderqueer/trans male therapist who treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. He works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, he strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
Are you struggling with your relationships, sexual orientation, gender identity, cultural identity, guilt, shame, anxiety, panic symptoms, trauma, unresolved abuse, self-hate, suicidal thoughts, hopelessness, grief and loss, chronic pain, or autoimmune disorders?
Lauren is a genderqueer/trans male therapist who treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. He works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, he strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
(657) 214-7701 View (657) 214-7701
Photo of Vicki Vander Zwart - Restoration Counseling Team, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, SAP
Restoration Counseling Team
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, SAP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Vicki is also trained in EMDR and CBT for Suicide Prevention.
Troy and Vicki Vander Zwart's practice goal is to give you a compassionate, safe, non-judgmental place to express your deepest thoughts and feelings, explore options to resolve the problems you are facing, and support and encourage you as you face them. We believe that a willingness to change and face the hardships in your life will lead toward personal growth and maturity. In therapy, you will gain insight, wisdom, and practical coping skills to face your personal issues with confidence so that you can have a more stable home life, a more rewarding career, or more fulfilling relationships.
Vicki is also trained in EMDR and CBT for Suicide Prevention.
Troy and Vicki Vander Zwart's practice goal is to give you a compassionate, safe, non-judgmental place to express your deepest thoughts and feelings, explore options to resolve the problems you are facing, and support and encourage you as you face them. We believe that a willingness to change and face the hardships in your life will lead toward personal growth and maturity. In therapy, you will gain insight, wisdom, and practical coping skills to face your personal issues with confidence so that you can have a more stable home life, a more rewarding career, or more fulfilling relationships.
(858) 367-3917 View (858) 367-3917
Photo of Jessica Ulmer, Psychologist, PsyD
Jessica Ulmer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I have worked with children, teens, & adults with emotional & behavioral dysregulation, relationship issues, suicidal thinking, substance abuse issues, & difficulty with life transitions.
My therapy is rooted in the interaction between the environment as well as our biology which influence our beliefs & potentially maladaptive behaviors. I believe each individual is unique & brings forth their own expertise. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore difficulties & use their strengths to achieve a life worth living
I have worked with children, teens, & adults with emotional & behavioral dysregulation, relationship issues, suicidal thinking, substance abuse issues, & difficulty with life transitions.
My therapy is rooted in the interaction between the environment as well as our biology which influence our beliefs & potentially maladaptive behaviors. I believe each individual is unique & brings forth their own expertise. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore difficulties & use their strengths to achieve a life worth living
(619) 389-3246 View (619) 389-3246
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Suicidal Ideation Therapists

How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?

Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.

Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?

Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.

Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?

The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?

As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.