Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Krina Gandhi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Krina Gandhi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience treating adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, suicidal ideations, self harm, and troubles with adjustments & life transitions.
It is inevitable that life is challenging and often times, we feel stuck and need reminders that we are not alone. As a psychotherapist, I understand that each client has a unique story of their own and that each client deserves tailored and individualized care. We will start by establishing what goals you would like to achieve in therapy and will then create a treatment plan collaboratively. I tend to pull from your strengths and values, and will work with you to unpack unhelpful thinking patterns and maladaptive behaviors and will explore alternative coping skills that will be more sustainable for you in the long run.
I have many years of experience treating adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, suicidal ideations, self harm, and troubles with adjustments & life transitions.
It is inevitable that life is challenging and often times, we feel stuck and need reminders that we are not alone. As a psychotherapist, I understand that each client has a unique story of their own and that each client deserves tailored and individualized care. We will start by establishing what goals you would like to achieve in therapy and will then create a treatment plan collaboratively. I tend to pull from your strengths and values, and will work with you to unpack unhelpful thinking patterns and maladaptive behaviors and will explore alternative coping skills that will be more sustainable for you in the long run.
(312) 313-9959 View (312) 313-9959
Photo of Carolyn Raitt, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Carolyn Raitt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
(312) 262-3704 View (312) 262-3704
Photo of Julie Josler, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Julie Josler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
(773) 389-2703 View (773) 389-2703
Photo of Tobi Wyld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Tobi Wyld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Are you or your teen struggling with navigating your identity? Have you experienced trauma, bullying, communication issues, self-harm, or suicidal ideation? Has your gender and/or sexuality impacted your mental health and you are wanting to learn how to embrace your most authentic self? Knowing how to navigate your own identity, or knowing how to support your child as they discover parts of who they are, can be a scary process. In order to embrace authenticity we need safety, security, and an ability to communicate. We will work together on finding healing, cultivating healthy communication, and creating a sense of safety.
Are you or your teen struggling with navigating your identity? Have you experienced trauma, bullying, communication issues, self-harm, or suicidal ideation? Has your gender and/or sexuality impacted your mental health and you are wanting to learn how to embrace your most authentic self? Knowing how to navigate your own identity, or knowing how to support your child as they discover parts of who they are, can be a scary process. In order to embrace authenticity we need safety, security, and an ability to communicate. We will work together on finding healing, cultivating healthy communication, and creating a sense of safety.
(872) 266-7922 View (872) 266-7922
Photo of Mary Gende, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mary Gende
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Hello! I’m Mary Gende, and I specialize in working with kids, adolescents and families. I have worked in an elementary school setting for several years helping students address emotional regulation, social skills, anxiety management, grief management, depression, suicidal thoughts, and more. I am passionate about helping people of all ages gain the necessary tools to cope with life’s ups and downs, because I believe that with time and support, we are all capable of managing stress and distress, along with any other emotions we may encounter.
Hello! I’m Mary Gende, and I specialize in working with kids, adolescents and families. I have worked in an elementary school setting for several years helping students address emotional regulation, social skills, anxiety management, grief management, depression, suicidal thoughts, and more. I am passionate about helping people of all ages gain the necessary tools to cope with life’s ups and downs, because I believe that with time and support, we are all capable of managing stress and distress, along with any other emotions we may encounter.
(872) 278-6029 x508 View (872) 278-6029 x508
Photo of Faith Perrin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Faith Perrin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Some presenting concerns I commonly work with are anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship issues, complex trauma, sexual assault recovery, physical &/or emotional abuse recovery, low self-esteem, issues with a sense of belonging, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Do you often find yourself feeling stuck within yourself, relationships, or within your environment? My ideal client is ready for change. They are open to creative ideas and new ways of thinking about themselves and the world. I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past and present experiences prevent you from living the life you are meant to be living. I approach these struggles through a holistic and trauma informed approach, which incorporates body-based, anti-oppression, and harm reduction practices.
Some presenting concerns I commonly work with are anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship issues, complex trauma, sexual assault recovery, physical &/or emotional abuse recovery, low self-esteem, issues with a sense of belonging, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Do you often find yourself feeling stuck within yourself, relationships, or within your environment? My ideal client is ready for change. They are open to creative ideas and new ways of thinking about themselves and the world. I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past and present experiences prevent you from living the life you are meant to be living. I approach these struggles through a holistic and trauma informed approach, which incorporates body-based, anti-oppression, and harm reduction practices.
(312) 564-4544 View (312) 564-4544
Photo of Jon Matthew, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Jon Matthew
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Jon (he/they) is a Clinical Therapist at Third Eye Counseling, with a Masters in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. As a nonbinary person of South Asian descent, Jon is passionate about providing mental health services to traditionally underserved populations, especially queer folks and people of color. Jon specializes in working with clients ages 18-30 who may be dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, trauma recovery, or life transitions.
Jon (he/they) is a Clinical Therapist at Third Eye Counseling, with a Masters in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. As a nonbinary person of South Asian descent, Jon is passionate about providing mental health services to traditionally underserved populations, especially queer folks and people of color. Jon specializes in working with clients ages 18-30 who may be dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, trauma recovery, or life transitions.
(312) 739-5079 View (312) 739-5079
Photo of Danielle Renyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Danielle Renyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I have experience providing support to individuals to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through life transitions or relationship issues, process abuse and neglect, and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming.
I take an empathetic and client centered approach to therapy, recognizing that it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to take the steps towards making positive changes in your life. I believe that all individuals have the tools to be successful in life and empower clients to use their strengths to make change. I value the therapeutic relationship and take a collaborative approach to working with children and adolescents.
I have experience providing support to individuals to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through life transitions or relationship issues, process abuse and neglect, and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming.
I take an empathetic and client centered approach to therapy, recognizing that it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to take the steps towards making positive changes in your life. I believe that all individuals have the tools to be successful in life and empower clients to use their strengths to make change. I value the therapeutic relationship and take a collaborative approach to working with children and adolescents.
(773) 694-8071 View (773) 694-8071
Photo of Kimberlie (Kimi) Simms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kimberlie (Kimi) Simms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with individuals facing chronic suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
Throughout our lives, we are taught how to be a good friend, a good family member, and to be kind and considerate to others. Unfortunately, people often are not taught how to be nice to oneself. As a therapist, I strive to assist clients in self-exploration and self-compassion and working towards self-acceptance. The real change starts with us as individuals. Once we start to take care of ourselves, and make those steps towards internal healing, there is a ripple effect towards improving our relationships with others. All parts of us are important, especially those parts of us we want to avoid and reject.
I have worked extensively with individuals facing chronic suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
Throughout our lives, we are taught how to be a good friend, a good family member, and to be kind and considerate to others. Unfortunately, people often are not taught how to be nice to oneself. As a therapist, I strive to assist clients in self-exploration and self-compassion and working towards self-acceptance. The real change starts with us as individuals. Once we start to take care of ourselves, and make those steps towards internal healing, there is a ripple effect towards improving our relationships with others. All parts of us are important, especially those parts of us we want to avoid and reject.
(773) 694-9370 View (773) 694-9370
Photo of Samantha Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Samantha Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Many of my clients are working through identity related concerns, low self esteem, religious deconstruction, or suicidal ideation.
I became a therapist because I believe that change is always possible, and that humans have an inherent ability to heal and transform when they feel safe, heard, and connected. I understand that sometimes patterns of thinking, difficult emotions, or past circumstances feel like they pull us away from living life fully. In session, I will work with you to identify your strengths, increase self-compassion, create safety in your body, and expand your capacity to respond in the face of life’s difficult moments. I'm also a big believer in the power of humor, and encourage you to bring your full selves into our work together.
Many of my clients are working through identity related concerns, low self esteem, religious deconstruction, or suicidal ideation.
I became a therapist because I believe that change is always possible, and that humans have an inherent ability to heal and transform when they feel safe, heard, and connected. I understand that sometimes patterns of thinking, difficult emotions, or past circumstances feel like they pull us away from living life fully. In session, I will work with you to identify your strengths, increase self-compassion, create safety in your body, and expand your capacity to respond in the face of life’s difficult moments. I'm also a big believer in the power of humor, and encourage you to bring your full selves into our work together.
(872) 278-5088 x2 View (872) 278-5088 x2
Photo of Alex Chiodo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Alex Chiodo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Existential dread? Lacking motivation? Struggling to find purpose? ADHD? Autism? C-PTSD? Self harm? Suicidal ideations? Complicated childhood? People pleaser? Avoidant of conflict? Co-dependency? Do you have someone with Narcissistic traits in your life? Low self esteem or self worth? History of hospitalizations? If some of these resonate with you, then we may be a fit.
Existential dread? Lacking motivation? Struggling to find purpose? ADHD? Autism? C-PTSD? Self harm? Suicidal ideations? Complicated childhood? People pleaser? Avoidant of conflict? Co-dependency? Do you have someone with Narcissistic traits in your life? Low self esteem or self worth? History of hospitalizations? If some of these resonate with you, then we may be a fit.
(872) 814-7250 View (872) 814-7250
Photo of Paige Burk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Paige Burk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I also have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families navigating challenges related to depression, suicidal ideation, relational conflict, gender and sexuality, and so on.
If you find yourself struggling as you care for your new baby, navigate a difficult fertility journey, or wrestle with the impact of past trauma, I am here to help. Many people don’t anticipate the grief and loss that can come with parenthood, or how parenting can trigger wounds from the past. Whatever challenges you may be facing, I provide a supportive space where you can be wholly you, with all the mess, pain, beauty, and absurdity life brings. I will work with you to better understand your experiences and emotions so you can heal and make the changes you are seeking in your life.
I also have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families navigating challenges related to depression, suicidal ideation, relational conflict, gender and sexuality, and so on.
If you find yourself struggling as you care for your new baby, navigate a difficult fertility journey, or wrestle with the impact of past trauma, I am here to help. Many people don’t anticipate the grief and loss that can come with parenthood, or how parenting can trigger wounds from the past. Whatever challenges you may be facing, I provide a supportive space where you can be wholly you, with all the mess, pain, beauty, and absurdity life brings. I will work with you to better understand your experiences and emotions so you can heal and make the changes you are seeking in your life.
(312) 376-4556 View (312) 376-4556
Photo of Connor McInerney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Connor McInerney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Do you struggle with your inner critic? Have you felt lonely or rejected? Maybe you've tried to avoid anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories, seeking a way out of a rollercoaster of emotions. Have you experienced difficulty with life transitions; career/school stress; relationship issues including polyamory and CNM; bigotry; grief; addiction; sex/drug linked behavior; sexual assault/abuse; self-harm, or suicidal thoughts? Are you somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and feel like no one in your life understands you? If you answered yes to any of these issues, when was the last time you had a space to talk that was just for you?
Do you struggle with your inner critic? Have you felt lonely or rejected? Maybe you've tried to avoid anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories, seeking a way out of a rollercoaster of emotions. Have you experienced difficulty with life transitions; career/school stress; relationship issues including polyamory and CNM; bigotry; grief; addiction; sex/drug linked behavior; sexual assault/abuse; self-harm, or suicidal thoughts? Are you somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and feel like no one in your life understands you? If you answered yes to any of these issues, when was the last time you had a space to talk that was just for you?
(281) 688-4954 View (281) 688-4954
Photo of Tricia Dwyer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Tricia Dwyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I have experience with depression, anxiety, non-suicidal self-injury, eating disorders, self-esteem, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, personality disorders, LGBTQIA issues, interpersonal issues, and trauma/PTSD.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. I believe everyone deserves to live a life worth living and it's my role to help clients achieve that goal. I believe in a very collaborative relationship with clients to help build an open and honest relationship. I will work very hard to provide you with a nonjudgmental space to allow for safe self-expression while processing and gaining an understanding of behaviors, thought patterns, and core beliefs.
I have experience with depression, anxiety, non-suicidal self-injury, eating disorders, self-esteem, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, personality disorders, LGBTQIA issues, interpersonal issues, and trauma/PTSD.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. I believe everyone deserves to live a life worth living and it's my role to help clients achieve that goal. I believe in a very collaborative relationship with clients to help build an open and honest relationship. I will work very hard to provide you with a nonjudgmental space to allow for safe self-expression while processing and gaining an understanding of behaviors, thought patterns, and core beliefs.
(773) 923-3631 View (773) 923-3631
Photo of Brooke Henderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Brooke Henderson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, family issues, behavioral issues, social issues, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
If you feel like you're at rock bottom, like your anxiety is taking over your life, or like your life can't possibly get any crazier, you have come to the right place. I am here to listen, empower, and guide you through your healing process, whatever that may look like. My aim is to create a non-judgmental space for you to share what you are going through. I tailor to my clients' needs individually and take a person-centered approach. Whether you are seeking support for a specific issue or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, I am here to help!
My specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, family issues, behavioral issues, social issues, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
If you feel like you're at rock bottom, like your anxiety is taking over your life, or like your life can't possibly get any crazier, you have come to the right place. I am here to listen, empower, and guide you through your healing process, whatever that may look like. My aim is to create a non-judgmental space for you to share what you are going through. I tailor to my clients' needs individually and take a person-centered approach. Whether you are seeking support for a specific issue or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, I am here to help!
(847) 790-4959 View (847) 790-4959
Photo of Jessica A Sweet, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jessica A Sweet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Currently have immediate day time appointments. Waitlist for evening. If you have a child or adolescent that feels depressed, anxious, worried, disconnected from relationships, or struggling with a certain issue, I can help. I also have experience working with self-harming, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or bullying. I also work with family dynamics like parenting struggles, issues with divorce, couple counseling, parent/child relationships. If you are an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problem, work conflict or other issues, I can help create solutions for these problems.
Currently have immediate day time appointments. Waitlist for evening. If you have a child or adolescent that feels depressed, anxious, worried, disconnected from relationships, or struggling with a certain issue, I can help. I also have experience working with self-harming, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or bullying. I also work with family dynamics like parenting struggles, issues with divorce, couple counseling, parent/child relationships. If you are an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problem, work conflict or other issues, I can help create solutions for these problems.
(847) 380-3222 View (847) 380-3222
Photo of Xinzhu Yu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Xinzhu Yu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
(312) 257-3851 View (312) 257-3851
Photo of Monika Reklyte, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Monika Reklyte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have clincial experience working with individuals and groups in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief, self-harm, anger and stress management, suicidal ideation, trauma, life changes, and relationship issues.
I believe in the transformative power of change. Learning to work with impermanence and change holds the key to our freedom. As we navigate life's unexpected challenges and transitions, I offer myself as a compassionate companion on your journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. As a trauma informed therapist, my therapeutic approach emphasizes authenticity, vulnerability, cultural humility, transparency and focus on mind-body relations. I incorporate mindfulness, somatics, and parts work into our sessions, recognizing that our inner selves are composed of various facets, each with its own unique needs and perspectives.
I have clincial experience working with individuals and groups in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief, self-harm, anger and stress management, suicidal ideation, trauma, life changes, and relationship issues.
I believe in the transformative power of change. Learning to work with impermanence and change holds the key to our freedom. As we navigate life's unexpected challenges and transitions, I offer myself as a compassionate companion on your journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. As a trauma informed therapist, my therapeutic approach emphasizes authenticity, vulnerability, cultural humility, transparency and focus on mind-body relations. I incorporate mindfulness, somatics, and parts work into our sessions, recognizing that our inner selves are composed of various facets, each with its own unique needs and perspectives.
(312) 654-4593 View (312) 654-4593
Photo of Sarah Landolfi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sarah Landolfi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA2S+ and Neurodivergent clients facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, sleep disturbances, executive functioning issues, substance use, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I work best with clients who are curious about themselves and who are ready to examine what could be better in their lives and relationships. You and I will collaborate to understand your current pain in terms of your past struggles and the protective coping strategies you've utilized to make it this far. We will build compassion for parts of you that may be critical, fearful, ashamed or hopeless, and we will study the relationships you have with these parts, with other people, and with the world while building skills to regulate your nervous system, inhabit your body more fully, and experience joy, connection and pleasure.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA2S+ and Neurodivergent clients facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, sleep disturbances, executive functioning issues, substance use, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I work best with clients who are curious about themselves and who are ready to examine what could be better in their lives and relationships. You and I will collaborate to understand your current pain in terms of your past struggles and the protective coping strategies you've utilized to make it this far. We will build compassion for parts of you that may be critical, fearful, ashamed or hopeless, and we will study the relationships you have with these parts, with other people, and with the world while building skills to regulate your nervous system, inhabit your body more fully, and experience joy, connection and pleasure.
(224) 520-9323 View (224) 520-9323
Photo of Emily Battle, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Emily Battle
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I have over 13 years of experience practicing therapy with children, adults, and families in a variety of settings who are dealing with a wide array of clinical issues. My main areas of clinical focus have been depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, anxiety, panic, trauma, and anger as well as behavioral, family, and interpersonal problems. If you find yourself or your child challenged with constant worry, low mood, lack of motivation, anger or interpersonal struggles, I am here to help!
I have over 13 years of experience practicing therapy with children, adults, and families in a variety of settings who are dealing with a wide array of clinical issues. My main areas of clinical focus have been depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, anxiety, panic, trauma, and anger as well as behavioral, family, and interpersonal problems. If you find yourself or your child challenged with constant worry, low mood, lack of motivation, anger or interpersonal struggles, I am here to help!
(773) 945-9088 View (773) 945-9088
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.