Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Karima Nero-Woodfork - Brightside Health, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
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.
(833) 315-5037 View (833) 315-5037
Photo of Samantha Morrell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Morrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have worked in a multitude of clinical settings, offering therapy for traumas related to suicide, rape, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-injurious behavior and major life adjustments.
Each individual is unique and resilient. My goal in therapy is to find and respect those qualities, and to work together in identifying coping tools that will promote profound and lasting changes. I have been practicing for over ten years. My training has covered trauma-informed care, crisis intervention and psychodynamic therapy. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Maryland and my master's degree in clinical social work at the University of Pennsylvania. I earned my independent clinical social work license in Washington, DC.
I have worked in a multitude of clinical settings, offering therapy for traumas related to suicide, rape, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-injurious behavior and major life adjustments.
Each individual is unique and resilient. My goal in therapy is to find and respect those qualities, and to work together in identifying coping tools that will promote profound and lasting changes. I have been practicing for over ten years. My training has covered trauma-informed care, crisis intervention and psychodynamic therapy. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Maryland and my master's degree in clinical social work at the University of Pennsylvania. I earned my independent clinical social work license in Washington, DC.
(202) 335-5319 View (202) 335-5319
Photo of Jillian Meinhardt, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Meinhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
We also offer suicide prevention trainings for clinicians.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that are overwhelming? Does your child go from 1-100 in a moment's notice? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
We also offer suicide prevention trainings for clinicians.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that are overwhelming? Does your child go from 1-100 in a moment's notice? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
(202) 875-6450 View (202) 875-6450
Photo of Chris Brearly, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Brearly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
I've worked with a variety of concerns including depression, suicidal ideation, generalized anxiety, panic attacks, recurring nightmares, flashbacks, phobias, grief, relationship conflicts, workplace issues, and existential questioning.
Therapy is a powerful means of restoring wellness and creating lasting change. I have experienced this in my own life and enjoy seeing this unfold for my clients. I am passionate about working with clients to develop self-compassion and emotional intelligence, and establishing a greater sense of groundedness and self-esteem. I am trained in EMDR and often use this therapeutic approach to significantly reduce distress associated with trauma and other adverse life experiences. EMDR can also be helpful for clients in breaking free from stuck patterns of thinking and feeling that are resistant to traditional talk therapy approaches.
I've worked with a variety of concerns including depression, suicidal ideation, generalized anxiety, panic attacks, recurring nightmares, flashbacks, phobias, grief, relationship conflicts, workplace issues, and existential questioning.
Therapy is a powerful means of restoring wellness and creating lasting change. I have experienced this in my own life and enjoy seeing this unfold for my clients. I am passionate about working with clients to develop self-compassion and emotional intelligence, and establishing a greater sense of groundedness and self-esteem. I am trained in EMDR and often use this therapeutic approach to significantly reduce distress associated with trauma and other adverse life experiences. EMDR can also be helpful for clients in breaking free from stuck patterns of thinking and feeling that are resistant to traditional talk therapy approaches.
(202) 335-6327 View (202) 335-6327
Photo of Jacqueline Williams - Brightside Health, PMHNP
Brightside Health
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
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.
(855) 439-1225 View (855) 439-1225
Photo of Raquel Grigera, PsyD, Psychologist
Raquel Grigera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Grigera is a licensed clinical psychologist who adults and adolescents specializing in couples counseling, eating disorders, self esteem concerns, mood and anxiety disorders, self-injury, suicidal ideation, trauma, and relationship concerns. She provides individualized evidence-based therapeutic services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She has extensive experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Dr. Grigera has worked in a variety of settings, including private practices, public school systems, medical centers, and residential treatment centers.
Dr. Grigera is a licensed clinical psychologist who adults and adolescents specializing in couples counseling, eating disorders, self esteem concerns, mood and anxiety disorders, self-injury, suicidal ideation, trauma, and relationship concerns. She provides individualized evidence-based therapeutic services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She has extensive experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Dr. Grigera has worked in a variety of settings, including private practices, public school systems, medical centers, and residential treatment centers.
(202) 831-2138 View (202) 831-2138
Photo of Aiesha Hogg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aiesha Hogg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt stressed, overwhelm, difficulty adjusting to life’s stressors that are impacting your work, home, and social life. Perhaps, you have found yourself experiencing excessive feelings of hopelessness, anger, sadness, substance abuse or even thoughts of suicide. While making the decision to seek professional help may be difficult, that’s where I come in. Together, we can work towards finding ways to heal, grow and restore balance within your life.
Have you ever felt stressed, overwhelm, difficulty adjusting to life’s stressors that are impacting your work, home, and social life. Perhaps, you have found yourself experiencing excessive feelings of hopelessness, anger, sadness, substance abuse or even thoughts of suicide. While making the decision to seek professional help may be difficult, that’s where I come in. Together, we can work towards finding ways to heal, grow and restore balance within your life.
(855) 967-4396 View (855) 967-4396
Photo of Élison Silva Santos, MS, LPA, Psychological Associate
Élison Silva Santos
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
I have authored several impactful books and book chapters, delving into important topics such as suicide prevention, the search for meaning in life, the transformative power of love, and the promotion of human rights.
Couples Therapy - Athletes Therapy - Adolescents Therapy - Adults Therapy. With over 16 years of dedicated service to clients, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, including adults, adolescents, couples, and groups. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been on providing support to those struggling with a wide range of emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, suicidal ideation, and OCD.
I have authored several impactful books and book chapters, delving into important topics such as suicide prevention, the search for meaning in life, the transformative power of love, and the promotion of human rights.
Couples Therapy - Athletes Therapy - Adolescents Therapy - Adults Therapy. With over 16 years of dedicated service to clients, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, including adults, adolescents, couples, and groups. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been on providing support to those struggling with a wide range of emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, suicidal ideation, and OCD.
(202) 858-1784 View (202) 858-1784
Photo of Jennifer Mostafa, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Mostafa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My Specialties include working with (but not limited to); LGBTQIA+ persons, couples work (traditional and non-traditional), Trans teens, Suicide prevention and intervention, bi-polar and identity challenges/transitions (ie.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
My Specialties include working with (but not limited to); LGBTQIA+ persons, couples work (traditional and non-traditional), Trans teens, Suicide prevention and intervention, bi-polar and identity challenges/transitions (ie.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
(202) 304-1180 View (202) 304-1180
Photo of Netelege Richards, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Netelege Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20004  (Online Only)
As a Clinical Social Worker, i have experience in working with individuals who struggle with depression ( Suicidal Ideation and Self Harm Urges), Anxiety, Anger, Adverse childhood events, parenting of adolescents, parenting of youth with mental health diagnosis, trauma related disorders, life transitions, school stressors, work stressors, race related issues and LGBTQIA+ related issues.
As a Clinical Social Worker, i have experience in working with individuals who struggle with depression ( Suicidal Ideation and Self Harm Urges), Anxiety, Anger, Adverse childhood events, parenting of adolescents, parenting of youth with mental health diagnosis, trauma related disorders, life transitions, school stressors, work stressors, race related issues and LGBTQIA+ related issues.
(202) 980-1358 View (202) 980-1358
Photo of Stephanie Ortiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20032  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, life transitions, bereavement, etc.
Many times as People of Color we often feel alone with our situation or don’t feel understood. We may have thoughts that we are not good enough or that we are different. Is that you? I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to suffer in silence anymore.  I recognize that our past has influenced our present-  but it does not need to dictate our future! I provide a warm, non-judgmental approach to help you reframe your story. I believe it is important to feel both seen and heard in therapy. With the right tools, emphatic support, knowledge and determination, everyone can heal, maximize their potential and enjoy life to the fullest.
I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, life transitions, bereavement, etc.
Many times as People of Color we often feel alone with our situation or don’t feel understood. We may have thoughts that we are not good enough or that we are different. Is that you? I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to suffer in silence anymore.  I recognize that our past has influenced our present-  but it does not need to dictate our future! I provide a warm, non-judgmental approach to help you reframe your story. I believe it is important to feel both seen and heard in therapy. With the right tools, emphatic support, knowledge and determination, everyone can heal, maximize their potential and enjoy life to the fullest.
(914) 758-1419 View (914) 758-1419
Photo of Kaniya Alston, MSW, SISW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaniya Alston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
I'm committed to helping people of various backgrounds cope with diagnoses of depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors, stress, and more.
Life challenges are inevitable, and therapy is a great way to help you navigate them. No situation is too hard; therefore, I welcome you to join a comfortable and safe space to be yourself and receive support and guidance on your journey. After working diligently, you will enjoy the incredible reward of seeing all the pieces come together. With evidence-based practices and spiritual development, you will be able to identify any symptom, behavior, or challenge that you feel may be limiting you.
I'm committed to helping people of various backgrounds cope with diagnoses of depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors, stress, and more.
Life challenges are inevitable, and therapy is a great way to help you navigate them. No situation is too hard; therefore, I welcome you to join a comfortable and safe space to be yourself and receive support and guidance on your journey. After working diligently, you will enjoy the incredible reward of seeing all the pieces come together. With evidence-based practices and spiritual development, you will be able to identify any symptom, behavior, or challenge that you feel may be limiting you.
(571) 556-3249 View (571) 556-3249
Photo of Dr. Jeanne M. Miller, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jeanne M. Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20024  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with clinical issues including, but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, sexual/physical assault, childhood abuse, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, military life, law enforcement, domestic violence, relationship issues, personality disorders, marriage issues, suicidal thoughts, internet pornography/compulsive sexual behaviors, physical illness and more.
Please Note: I Currently Have a Waiting List - Finding the right therapist can feel like an exhausting search. If you are depressed, anxious, troubled in your relationships, coping with grief, struggling with past or current trauma, feeling hopeless or angry, or just trying to understand yourself better, I'm here to help. I believe we all have the answers we need inside us, but sometimes it takes working with a neutral observer to find those answers. Together you and I will work toward increased understanding of and ways to cope with whatever problems you would like to discuss. Therapy isn't necessarily easy, but it can help.
I have experience with clinical issues including, but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, sexual/physical assault, childhood abuse, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, military life, law enforcement, domestic violence, relationship issues, personality disorders, marriage issues, suicidal thoughts, internet pornography/compulsive sexual behaviors, physical illness and more.
Please Note: I Currently Have a Waiting List - Finding the right therapist can feel like an exhausting search. If you are depressed, anxious, troubled in your relationships, coping with grief, struggling with past or current trauma, feeling hopeless or angry, or just trying to understand yourself better, I'm here to help. I believe we all have the answers we need inside us, but sometimes it takes working with a neutral observer to find those answers. Together you and I will work toward increased understanding of and ways to cope with whatever problems you would like to discuss. Therapy isn't necessarily easy, but it can help.
(703) 997-6777 View (703) 997-6777
Photo of Madeleine E. Bertin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeleine E. Bertin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have expertise working with Eating Disorders, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, and the often co-occurring issues of self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-worth, & interpersonal difficulties.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the central component to successful psychotherapy and I bring special attention to the ongoing process of relational safety. I also believe that self-harmful behaviors always have roots in past experiences of threat and it can be life-changing to discover these connections. I work to help individuals establish goals, explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, develop resources and skills, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater self-empowerment so they can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for themselves.
I have expertise working with Eating Disorders, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, and the often co-occurring issues of self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-worth, & interpersonal difficulties.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the central component to successful psychotherapy and I bring special attention to the ongoing process of relational safety. I also believe that self-harmful behaviors always have roots in past experiences of threat and it can be life-changing to discover these connections. I work to help individuals establish goals, explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, develop resources and skills, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater self-empowerment so they can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for themselves.
(206) 819-8042 View (206) 819-8042
Photo of Lynn Lynes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Lynes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
(703) 348-9734 View (703) 348-9734
Photo of Andrea Miller, LGPC, MA, NCC
Andrea Miller
Resident in Counseling, LGPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
(571) 946-6525 View (571) 946-6525
Photo of Michael Baly, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Baly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Baly is a clinical psychologist who works with individuals and families experiencing a range of issues. He specializes in treating acute and complex trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, self-harm and suicide, addictive behaviors, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Dr. Baly received a B.A. from Harvard and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Virginia. He has trained at several nationally recognized institutions, including the Institute of Living, Johns Hopkins, and the Kennedy Krieger Institute. He is passionate about helping people cope with present day stressors and issues stemming from past trauma.
Dr. Baly is a clinical psychologist who works with individuals and families experiencing a range of issues. He specializes in treating acute and complex trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, self-harm and suicide, addictive behaviors, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Dr. Baly received a B.A. from Harvard and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Virginia. He has trained at several nationally recognized institutions, including the Institute of Living, Johns Hopkins, and the Kennedy Krieger Institute. He is passionate about helping people cope with present day stressors and issues stemming from past trauma.
(571) 554-2120 View (571) 554-2120
Photo of Craig Alexander Gordon - Consider Mindfulness LLC, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Consider Mindfulness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
Clients can experience a life situation or a series of life situations that cause some level of unwanted emotional arousal (sadness, hurt, pain, fear, anxiety) and as a result of the intensity, increases an urge to do a behavior they consider ineffective (self harm, suicidal behavior, isolate, withdrawal, shutdown, verbally/physically aggressive, tantrums, obsessions, compulsions, avoidance, school refusal). They are in need of skills to help them cope with their emotions and problem solve their life situations. Despite the discomfort, they want to be effective, maintain relationships and feel better.
Clients can experience a life situation or a series of life situations that cause some level of unwanted emotional arousal (sadness, hurt, pain, fear, anxiety) and as a result of the intensity, increases an urge to do a behavior they consider ineffective (self harm, suicidal behavior, isolate, withdrawal, shutdown, verbally/physically aggressive, tantrums, obsessions, compulsions, avoidance, school refusal). They are in need of skills to help them cope with their emotions and problem solve their life situations. Despite the discomfort, they want to be effective, maintain relationships and feel better.
(571) 600-6638 View (571) 600-6638
Photo of John Perry, MA, NCC
John Perry
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I am a Resident in Counseling based in Virginia, possessing a particular passion for addressing a diverse array of issues, including those related to the LGBTQIA+ community, relational conflicts, life transitions, depression, anxiety, multicultural concerns, identity exploration, suicidal ideation, trauma, legal system challenges, and personality disorders. In my therapeutic approach, I emphasize the importance of fostering a collaborative and secure space for clients to navigate their current struggles, confront challenges, and explore avenues for healthy community connections through an empathetic and trauma-informed lens.
I am a Resident in Counseling based in Virginia, possessing a particular passion for addressing a diverse array of issues, including those related to the LGBTQIA+ community, relational conflicts, life transitions, depression, anxiety, multicultural concerns, identity exploration, suicidal ideation, trauma, legal system challenges, and personality disorders. In my therapeutic approach, I emphasize the importance of fostering a collaborative and secure space for clients to navigate their current struggles, confront challenges, and explore avenues for healthy community connections through an empathetic and trauma-informed lens.
(571) 454-8723 View (571) 454-8723
Photo of Dr. Alexis Exum, PhD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Alexis Exum
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20012
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in suicide assessment, behavioral activation, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders, social phobia, depression, and anxiety, trauma-focused CBT and cognitive processing therapy, as well as radically-open dialectical behavior therapy.
My name is Dr. Alexis Exum. I am a clinical psychologist and the founder of Clarity Rose Mental Health and Wellness Center, PLLC. I see patients ages 13 to 25 years old. I received my doctoral degree from the University of Kansas. I did my internship (residency) and fellowship at Children’s National Hospital (CNH) in Washington, DC. I specialize in adolescent and young adult assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for eating and weight disorders, trauma, and mood-related disorders among primarily racial and ethnic minority, transgender, and sexual minorities. I also do ADHD full psychiatric evaluations.
I am trained in suicide assessment, behavioral activation, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders, social phobia, depression, and anxiety, trauma-focused CBT and cognitive processing therapy, as well as radically-open dialectical behavior therapy.
My name is Dr. Alexis Exum. I am a clinical psychologist and the founder of Clarity Rose Mental Health and Wellness Center, PLLC. I see patients ages 13 to 25 years old. I received my doctoral degree from the University of Kansas. I did my internship (residency) and fellowship at Children’s National Hospital (CNH) in Washington, DC. I specialize in adolescent and young adult assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for eating and weight disorders, trauma, and mood-related disorders among primarily racial and ethnic minority, transgender, and sexual minorities. I also do ADHD full psychiatric evaluations.
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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.