Suicidal Ideation Therapists in San Francisco, CA
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
Stephanie Lay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Their clinical specialities include suicidal ideation, self harm, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender identity, and sexual abuse/assault.
Stephanie practices from a trauma informed, person centered and narrative expressive arts therapy foundation, which means she meets clients where they are at and engages with them in supportive, artistic and playful ways.
Their clinical specialities include suicidal ideation, self harm, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender identity, and sexual abuse/assault.
Stephanie practices from a trauma informed, person centered and narrative expressive arts therapy foundation, which means she meets clients where they are at and engages with them in supportive, artistic and playful ways.
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.
Boston Child Study Center - California (LA & SF)
Psychologist, MD, PhD, MA, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Our adolescent and young adult programs specialize in providing DBT and DBT-Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), ACT and Exposure Therapy (ExRP) to treat anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, suicidal behaviors, non- suicidal self-injury (self-harm), substance use, disordered eating, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, non-verbal learning disability, as well as PTSD and Complex-PTSD.
We are passionate about addressing the disturbing fact that mental illness continues to increase despite greater evidence-based treatment availability than ever before. We believe this is due to the unethical managed-care practices, rigid clinical delivery models, and interventions developed on a fundamental misunderstanding about emotions and emotional disorders. Our services teach individuals and families how to listen to primary emotions that signal information about our core needs and how to act opposite to secondary emotions that cause distress and suffering. We provide state-of-the-art evidence-based treatments (EBT), working as a multidisciplinary team to provide collaborative, individualized, and comprehensive treatment targeting your child's individual symptoms, their academic and social experiences, transactions within the family system, and whole-family support through individual therapy, group therapy, caregiver coaching, family therapy & couples therapy. Services can flex from weekly outpatient care to intensive outpatient programming, delivering 1-15 hours of individualized care. Progress is measured through weekly measurement-based care and monthly team meetings.
Our adolescent and young adult programs specialize in providing DBT and DBT-Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), ACT and Exposure Therapy (ExRP) to treat anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, suicidal behaviors, non- suicidal self-injury (self-harm), substance use, disordered eating, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, non-verbal learning disability, as well as PTSD and Complex-PTSD.
We are passionate about addressing the disturbing fact that mental illness continues to increase despite greater evidence-based treatment availability than ever before. We believe this is due to the unethical managed-care practices, rigid clinical delivery models, and interventions developed on a fundamental misunderstanding about emotions and emotional disorders. Our services teach individuals and families how to listen to primary emotions that signal information about our core needs and how to act opposite to secondary emotions that cause distress and suffering. We provide state-of-the-art evidence-based treatments (EBT), working as a multidisciplinary team to provide collaborative, individualized, and comprehensive treatment targeting your child's individual symptoms, their academic and social experiences, transactions within the family system, and whole-family support through individual therapy, group therapy, caregiver coaching, family therapy & couples therapy. Services can flex from weekly outpatient care to intensive outpatient programming, delivering 1-15 hours of individualized care. Progress is measured through weekly measurement-based care and monthly team meetings.
I specialize in helping individuals with chronic emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
I am dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals navigating life’s challenges. With extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), my approach blends self-acceptance with a focus on meaningful change, helping clients create a life worth living. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to meet clients where they are, adapting flexibly to their unique needs and goals. It is a privilege to walk alongside clients as they navigate their personal journeys toward healing and growth. Anti-oppressive practices are important to me, and I strive to be an ally to my clients and my community.
I specialize in helping individuals with chronic emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
I am dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals navigating life’s challenges. With extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), my approach blends self-acceptance with a focus on meaningful change, helping clients create a life worth living. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to meet clients where they are, adapting flexibly to their unique needs and goals. It is a privilege to walk alongside clients as they navigate their personal journeys toward healing and growth. Anti-oppressive practices are important to me, and I strive to be an ally to my clients and my community.
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.
I also offer support for those experiencing suicidal ideation and provide tools for healing from attachment wounds.
Together, we’ll build resilience by enhancing your coping strategies, cultivating self-awareness and fostering healthy relationships. My integrative approach draws from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), strengths-based techniques, motivational interviewing, and talk therapy to meet your needs.
I also offer support for those experiencing suicidal ideation and provide tools for healing from attachment wounds.
Together, we’ll build resilience by enhancing your coping strategies, cultivating self-awareness and fostering healthy relationships. My integrative approach draws from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), strengths-based techniques, motivational interviewing, and talk therapy to meet your needs.
Suhadee (Su) Henriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
career, college) eating issues, substance abuse, as well as suicidal and non- suicidal self-injurious behaviors.
I am trained in scientifically Evidence based treatments, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Certified Prolonged Exposure (PE) Certified, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure - Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (PE-DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and (CBASP)
career, college) eating issues, substance abuse, as well as suicidal and non- suicidal self-injurious behaviors.
I am trained in scientifically Evidence based treatments, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Certified Prolonged Exposure (PE) Certified, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure - Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (PE-DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and (CBASP)
Paul Beirne
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I have experience treating a wide range of issues (depression, suicidal ideation, bullying, behavior problems, substance abuse, etc).
“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.” ― Bessel A. van der Kolk. My approach to treatment helps people identify the core issues that have been avoided and pushed aside in an emotionally safe environment. Through the process of consciousness raising and self exploration, lasting changes in thought patterns are made, and overall life improvement occurs. I work with people of all ages and have a wealth of experience working with teens and young adults.
I have experience treating a wide range of issues (depression, suicidal ideation, bullying, behavior problems, substance abuse, etc).
“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.” ― Bessel A. van der Kolk. My approach to treatment helps people identify the core issues that have been avoided and pushed aside in an emotionally safe environment. Through the process of consciousness raising and self exploration, lasting changes in thought patterns are made, and overall life improvement occurs. I work with people of all ages and have a wealth of experience working with teens and young adults.
These difficulties can often look like depression, anxiety, intense stress, anger, poor self-esteem, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and more.
I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I can help you with coping skills that increase awareness of your experiences (mindfulness), improve interpersonal skills, tolerate distressing moments, and regulate intense emotions.
These difficulties can often look like depression, anxiety, intense stress, anger, poor self-esteem, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and more.
I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I can help you with coping skills that increase awareness of your experiences (mindfulness), improve interpersonal skills, tolerate distressing moments, and regulate intense emotions.
Lynsie Seely @ The Connective
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhDc, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I Specialize in: Helping you GROW- Self Esteem, Assertiveness Skills, Empowerment, a Stronger Sense of Self, Connection with your Body, clarity around Career/Life path, Dating/Relationships, Emotional Intelligence, and overall Well-being Helping you REDUCE: Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Depression, Negative Thoughts, Maladaptive Patterns, Self Harming and Suicidal Behavior.
It is my hope for you that you are thriving in your life--free of anxiety, depression, and other ailments, leaving you open to fully enjoy your life. If this isn't the case and you happen to be feeling stuck, worn-down, stressed, anxious, or depressed, if you're in a challenging transition, struggling with a relationship, or wanting to embody your life more fully--Welcome! I am dedicated to helping guide and support you in achieving your goals. I work using a collaborative, body-centered, approach and will empathically support you on your journey toward greater well-being.
I Specialize in: Helping you GROW- Self Esteem, Assertiveness Skills, Empowerment, a Stronger Sense of Self, Connection with your Body, clarity around Career/Life path, Dating/Relationships, Emotional Intelligence, and overall Well-being Helping you REDUCE: Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Depression, Negative Thoughts, Maladaptive Patterns, Self Harming and Suicidal Behavior.
It is my hope for you that you are thriving in your life--free of anxiety, depression, and other ailments, leaving you open to fully enjoy your life. If this isn't the case and you happen to be feeling stuck, worn-down, stressed, anxious, or depressed, if you're in a challenging transition, struggling with a relationship, or wanting to embody your life more fully--Welcome! I am dedicated to helping guide and support you in achieving your goals. I work using a collaborative, body-centered, approach and will empathically support you on your journey toward greater well-being.
Meet Our Suicidal Ideation Therapists
I have worked with a wide range of clients, from poverty-stricken to affluent, depressed and suicidal to angry and homicidal, geriatric to pediatric.
I'm nonjudgmental and laid back, but very direct. I will ask a lot of questions to dive into the areas of concern and allow you to clarify what your goals are, and what you want to get out of treatment. We will see what we can do in weekly sessions generally from 3 to 6 months, as needed. We bolster what is working and cut down what isn't.
I have worked with a wide range of clients, from poverty-stricken to affluent, depressed and suicidal to angry and homicidal, geriatric to pediatric.
I'm nonjudgmental and laid back, but very direct. I will ask a lot of questions to dive into the areas of concern and allow you to clarify what your goals are, and what you want to get out of treatment. We will see what we can do in weekly sessions generally from 3 to 6 months, as needed. We bolster what is working and cut down what isn't.
I treat anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, self-harm/ suicidal ideation, substance use, anger management, grief, low self-esteem, relationship and family issues, identity development, and life transitions.
I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a variety of backgrounds. My main goal is to create an authentic connection with each of my clients to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable. I believe that our past influences our present, especially when faced with challenging life experiences. Together, within our built safe space, we will explore how your past experiences influence your current thoughts and behaviors - to improve your awareness and identify areas for positive change. I believe in balancing validation and empathy with a directive, solution-focused approach that offers specific strategies to enact change.
I treat anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, self-harm/ suicidal ideation, substance use, anger management, grief, low self-esteem, relationship and family issues, identity development, and life transitions.
I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a variety of backgrounds. My main goal is to create an authentic connection with each of my clients to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable. I believe that our past influences our present, especially when faced with challenging life experiences. Together, within our built safe space, we will explore how your past experiences influence your current thoughts and behaviors - to improve your awareness and identify areas for positive change. I believe in balancing validation and empathy with a directive, solution-focused approach that offers specific strategies to enact change.
, borderline personality), isolation/loneliness, suicidal thoughts, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders/symptoms.
My name is Gian Michael Sarabia and I am a licensed psychotherapist. I focus on harder-to-treat condition(s) with individuals that may have been through a multitude of life traumas - due to their unique vulnerabilities. My approach mirrors positive psychology and I aim to de-stigmatize and help individuals accept themselves fully while offering classical and alternative psychotherapy frameworks for the purpose of processing challenging life situations.
, borderline personality), isolation/loneliness, suicidal thoughts, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders/symptoms.
My name is Gian Michael Sarabia and I am a licensed psychotherapist. I focus on harder-to-treat condition(s) with individuals that may have been through a multitude of life traumas - due to their unique vulnerabilities. My approach mirrors positive psychology and I aim to de-stigmatize and help individuals accept themselves fully while offering classical and alternative psychotherapy frameworks for the purpose of processing challenging life situations.
We've worked with people who have/are suicidal, self-harming, OCD, ADHD, drug & alcohol addiction, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, physical illness, child abuse & neglect, autism, anxiety, grief, depression, ptsd, homeless, at-risk, terminal illness and gender distress.
BSS offers cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, DBT, psychodrama, and other therapies listed, which can be used independently or integratively throughout sessions. Having the knowledge and experience with different approaches and populations, We can help you identify which one/s work best to help you navigate your dilemmas and do your part.
We've worked with people who have/are suicidal, self-harming, OCD, ADHD, drug & alcohol addiction, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, physical illness, child abuse & neglect, autism, anxiety, grief, depression, ptsd, homeless, at-risk, terminal illness and gender distress.
BSS offers cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, DBT, psychodrama, and other therapies listed, which can be used independently or integratively throughout sessions. Having the knowledge and experience with different approaches and populations, We can help you identify which one/s work best to help you navigate your dilemmas and do your part.
I work with young adults/adults healing from PTSD, C-PTSD, childhood trauma, and attachment wounds, as well as those struggling with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and suicidal thoughts.
As a feminist, trauma-informed therapist, I recognize how systems of oppression, inequality, and societal expectations shape our experiences and impact our well-being. I offer culturally sensitive care that honors your lived experience - creating a space where you feel truly seen, valued, and understood.
I work with young adults/adults healing from PTSD, C-PTSD, childhood trauma, and attachment wounds, as well as those struggling with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and suicidal thoughts.
As a feminist, trauma-informed therapist, I recognize how systems of oppression, inequality, and societal expectations shape our experiences and impact our well-being. I offer culturally sensitive care that honors your lived experience - creating a space where you feel truly seen, valued, and understood.
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
When needs are not met, people resort to anger, a secondary emotion, in order to protect one's self from/cover up vulnerable feelings that is not verbalized. You will learn tools and skills to manage your emotions effectively/appropriately in an interactive fashion. This ONLY takes months, not years.
Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
When needs are not met, people resort to anger, a secondary emotion, in order to protect one's self from/cover up vulnerable feelings that is not verbalized. You will learn tools and skills to manage your emotions effectively/appropriately in an interactive fashion. This ONLY takes months, not years.
I have experience working with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal ideation, self-harm and family of origin concerns.
I approach therapy from a psychodynamic frame utilizing a combination of emotion focused therapy, family systems and behavioral techniques. I strive to create a safe space in each session for each individual to know themselves more deeply and understand how their early life experiences have impacted their current way of interacting with the world.
I have experience working with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal ideation, self-harm and family of origin concerns.
I approach therapy from a psychodynamic frame utilizing a combination of emotion focused therapy, family systems and behavioral techniques. I strive to create a safe space in each session for each individual to know themselves more deeply and understand how their early life experiences have impacted their current way of interacting with the world.
I work with families, teens, and individuals whose pain shows up as deep emotional hurt, heightened sensitivity to certain situations, overwhelm, or conflict in close relationships—even violent or suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
I am trained in an attachment- and trauma-informed therapy with individuals and families.
I completed EMDR Basic Training in October 2024 and now offer EMDR therapy for adults, with ongoing consultation from an expert in the approach to support my practice.
I work with families, teens, and individuals whose pain shows up as deep emotional hurt, heightened sensitivity to certain situations, overwhelm, or conflict in close relationships—even violent or suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
I am trained in an attachment- and trauma-informed therapy with individuals and families.
I completed EMDR Basic Training in October 2024 and now offer EMDR therapy for adults, with ongoing consultation from an expert in the approach to support my practice.
I also provide consultation in the areas of suicide, violence reduction, and program development.
In far too many situations individuals with bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia have internalized messages that there is no hope, that they are simply victims of their mental illness, and unable to reach their life goals. My practice, Inspiration Psychological Services' primary purpose is to provide individuals who struggle with mental illness with the neccessary coping skills that they need to manage symptoms, cope with everyday life challenges, and improve the quality of their lives.
I strongly believe in providing a supportive atmosphere that consists of understanding individual experiences, addressing needs, instilling hope, building on strengths, and recognizing potential.
I also provide consultation in the areas of suicide, violence reduction, and program development.
In far too many situations individuals with bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia have internalized messages that there is no hope, that they are simply victims of their mental illness, and unable to reach their life goals. My practice, Inspiration Psychological Services' primary purpose is to provide individuals who struggle with mental illness with the neccessary coping skills that they need to manage symptoms, cope with everyday life challenges, and improve the quality of their lives.
I strongly believe in providing a supportive atmosphere that consists of understanding individual experiences, addressing needs, instilling hope, building on strengths, and recognizing potential.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Suicidal Ideation Therapists Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Belvedere Tiburon
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Mill Valley
- Oakland
- Piedmont
- San Bruno
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
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.