Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Shira Knopf-Gholian, Counselor, LMHC
Shira Knopf-Gholian
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234
Waitlist for new clients
As a DBT therapist I have experience working with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors, eating disorders, impulsivity, interpersonal difficulties and trauma.
At times we may feel like we are drowning in our emotions; making it challenging to think clearly or act effectively- often leading to desperate urges or behaviors to regain control over our emotions. I will work with you on decreasing emotion intensity & increasing capacity to cope with intense emotions.
As a DBT therapist I have experience working with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors, eating disorders, impulsivity, interpersonal difficulties and trauma.
At times we may feel like we are drowning in our emotions; making it challenging to think clearly or act effectively- often leading to desperate urges or behaviors to regain control over our emotions. I will work with you on decreasing emotion intensity & increasing capacity to cope with intense emotions.
(347) 252-3815 View (347) 252-3815
Photo of Jordan Sweeney, MHC-LP, MS
Jordan Sweeney
MHC-LP, MS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Online Only
I have an extensive background working with individuals struggling with various mood and personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
Have you found yourself struggling to understand or manage your emotions? Feeling lost, stressed, overwhelmed, or empty, and don’t know where to begin? Improving your mental well-being can be an intimidating process, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you are having trouble managing your urges, thoughts, or behaviors, experiencing grief, relationship or identity issues, or just feeling like you've lost a sense of peace and purpose somewhere along the way, my personalized, integrative, and trauma-informed approach to psychotherapy can help.
I have an extensive background working with individuals struggling with various mood and personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
Have you found yourself struggling to understand or manage your emotions? Feeling lost, stressed, overwhelmed, or empty, and don’t know where to begin? Improving your mental well-being can be an intimidating process, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you are having trouble managing your urges, thoughts, or behaviors, experiencing grief, relationship or identity issues, or just feeling like you've lost a sense of peace and purpose somewhere along the way, my personalized, integrative, and trauma-informed approach to psychotherapy can help.
(914) 635-2384 View (914) 635-2384
Photo of Arielle Mach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Arielle Mach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
For those seeking help with non- suicidal self injury, such as cutting, I utilize an DBT approach where I will assess the factors that are contributing to these behaviors, teach you new, healthy and effective ways of coping, and work with parents to provide a supportive environment.
Seeing your child angry, depressed, anxious, and engaging in self destructive behaviors like cutting or using substances is overwhelming, confusing and frightening. Maybe something recently happened that explains these changes, or maybe it feels like this has come out of nowhere. Either way, you have come to the right place, and I am here to help.  I have devoted my practice to supporting teens and their families through one of the most tumultuous times of their life.
For those seeking help with non- suicidal self injury, such as cutting, I utilize an DBT approach where I will assess the factors that are contributing to these behaviors, teach you new, healthy and effective ways of coping, and work with parents to provide a supportive environment.
Seeing your child angry, depressed, anxious, and engaging in self destructive behaviors like cutting or using substances is overwhelming, confusing and frightening. Maybe something recently happened that explains these changes, or maybe it feels like this has come out of nowhere. Either way, you have come to the right place, and I am here to help.  I have devoted my practice to supporting teens and their families through one of the most tumultuous times of their life.
(347) 708-8635 View (347) 708-8635
Photo of Lauren Coe, Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP, MS Ed
Lauren Coe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP, MS Ed
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’ve also worked on a suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ youth and have worked with male-identified survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
I’m Lauren. I’m a queer, white, cisgender woman. As a therapist, I believe in the importance of establishing a strong, authentic therapeutic relationship that can serve as the foundation for healing. When we feel connected and safe with a therapist, we can begin to take risks to learn more about ourselves and how we operate in the world around us.
I’ve also worked on a suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ youth and have worked with male-identified survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
I’m Lauren. I’m a queer, white, cisgender woman. As a therapist, I believe in the importance of establishing a strong, authentic therapeutic relationship that can serve as the foundation for healing. When we feel connected and safe with a therapist, we can begin to take risks to learn more about ourselves and how we operate in the world around us.
(718) 550-1902 View (718) 550-1902
Photo of Rebecca Rodas, Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT
Rebecca Rodas
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My experience spans a diverse range of clients, from those dealing with trauma, LGBTQ+ identity, struggles with anxiety, depression, addictions, suicidal thoughts, non-monogamous relationships, relational challenges, and a variety of other concerns.
I strive to be a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental presence, committed to creating a space where my clients feel safe to be their authentic selves. I believe in the power of humor and play, and I am committed to providing ongoing support and guidance as my clients navigate their journey of growth and self-discovery.
My experience spans a diverse range of clients, from those dealing with trauma, LGBTQ+ identity, struggles with anxiety, depression, addictions, suicidal thoughts, non-monogamous relationships, relational challenges, and a variety of other concerns.
I strive to be a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental presence, committed to creating a space where my clients feel safe to be their authentic selves. I believe in the power of humor and play, and I am committed to providing ongoing support and guidance as my clients navigate their journey of growth and self-discovery.
(347) 801-0141 View (347) 801-0141
Photo of Peter Honchaurk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Peter Honchaurk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I have served as clinical supervisor to many therapists. I have a superb track record of helping clients - individuals, families and couples - effect remarkable recovery and resume functioning. Areas in which I excel: schizophrenia, depression (incl suicide- and self-harm-prevention), anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, social phobia, OCD, alcoholism (though I'm no substitute for AA), substance abuse, sex addiction, debt & finance stress, grief, workplace stress, assertiveness, and work with teens-at-risk and their families.
I have served as clinical supervisor to many therapists. I have a superb track record of helping clients - individuals, families and couples - effect remarkable recovery and resume functioning. Areas in which I excel: schizophrenia, depression (incl suicide- and self-harm-prevention), anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, social phobia, OCD, alcoholism (though I'm no substitute for AA), substance abuse, sex addiction, debt & finance stress, grief, workplace stress, assertiveness, and work with teens-at-risk and their families.
(646) 798-2995 View (646) 798-2995
Photo of Chrissandra M Andra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MS, LCSW
Chrissandra M Andra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11216
Clinical Interests/Specialties include values-aligned living; overcoming self-injurious/ suicidal thoughts and urges; overcoming intrusive/obsessive thoughts; targeting posttraumatic stress responses; teaching and practicing mindfulness.
Chrissandra M. Andra, LCSW, PLLC presents Queer Behaviors, an initiative to provide evidence-based behavioral practices to people who are marginalized for their gender and/or sexuality in New York and New Jersey. My team and I consider identity, marginalization, and the struggles caused by systems of oppression through an intersectional lens. We tailor individual and group therapy to your needs, either in person (in Manhattan) or via telehealth services (available throughout New York State). Making our program inclusive and accessible is a top priority.
Clinical Interests/Specialties include values-aligned living; overcoming self-injurious/ suicidal thoughts and urges; overcoming intrusive/obsessive thoughts; targeting posttraumatic stress responses; teaching and practicing mindfulness.
Chrissandra M. Andra, LCSW, PLLC presents Queer Behaviors, an initiative to provide evidence-based behavioral practices to people who are marginalized for their gender and/or sexuality in New York and New Jersey. My team and I consider identity, marginalization, and the struggles caused by systems of oppression through an intersectional lens. We tailor individual and group therapy to your needs, either in person (in Manhattan) or via telehealth services (available throughout New York State). Making our program inclusive and accessible is a top priority.
(929) 946-8447 View (929) 946-8447
Photo of Sophie Angelique Desnoyers, MHC-LP
Sophie Angelique Desnoyers
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238
My experience centers around individuals who struggle with identity conflicts, life transitions, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal urges.
Once you are engaged in a safe, validating and honest therapeutic space, there is tremendous potential for growth. I appreciate the risk you take when you share your struggles and stories. In honoring that risk, I will remind you every step of the way of your power. Pain, distress and discomfort can inform us about the ways we see, move through, and live in the world. I will encourage you to explore these pain points and move forward with a new perspective: more in alignment with your values and goals. I come from a social justice framework and trauma-informed lens, acknowledging how inequity and injustice inform your narrative.
My experience centers around individuals who struggle with identity conflicts, life transitions, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal urges.
Once you are engaged in a safe, validating and honest therapeutic space, there is tremendous potential for growth. I appreciate the risk you take when you share your struggles and stories. In honoring that risk, I will remind you every step of the way of your power. Pain, distress and discomfort can inform us about the ways we see, move through, and live in the world. I will encourage you to explore these pain points and move forward with a new perspective: more in alignment with your values and goals. I come from a social justice framework and trauma-informed lens, acknowledging how inequity and injustice inform your narrative.
(718) 866-4520 View (718) 866-4520
Photo of Sheryl Alman-Charles - Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226
Many of our clients present with symptoms and concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal thoughts and gestures, behavioral problems, gender identity and body image, family system struggles, in addition to multiple social determinants of health challenges.
Let’s Talk Wellness and Not Illness! The goal of my team of licensed mental health clinicians is to provide person-centered care, that focuses on the many strengths of the children, adolescents, young adults, and the families that we treat. We use evidenced-based approaches to diagnose and provide individual, family and group therapy, as well as psychiatry. We offer our clients the option to have their sessions at our clinic office, at safe spaces in their communities, at their homes and on Zoom. We are proud that our team reflects the cultural diversity, race, ethnicity and linguistic competence of those we serve across NYC.
Many of our clients present with symptoms and concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal thoughts and gestures, behavioral problems, gender identity and body image, family system struggles, in addition to multiple social determinants of health challenges.
Let’s Talk Wellness and Not Illness! The goal of my team of licensed mental health clinicians is to provide person-centered care, that focuses on the many strengths of the children, adolescents, young adults, and the families that we treat. We use evidenced-based approaches to diagnose and provide individual, family and group therapy, as well as psychiatry. We offer our clients the option to have their sessions at our clinic office, at safe spaces in their communities, at their homes and on Zoom. We are proud that our team reflects the cultural diversity, race, ethnicity and linguistic competence of those we serve across NYC.
(929) 345-1849 View (929) 345-1849
Photo of Melissa Galvin, MHC-LP
Melissa Galvin
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Melissa’s professional background includes many years as a mental health professional in suicide prevention and crisis intervention, with a particular focus on supporting LGBTQ young people.
Melissa (she/they) believes that therapy should provide a supportive, empathetic, and nurturing space for clients. Ultimately, she recognizes that therapy can be hard and unearth a lot of emotions/experiences. They aim to utilize a collaborative, trauma-informed, and individualized therapeutic approach to best support you in exploring how you are feeling and where you want to go. Some of their goals are to ensure you feel heard, deepen your awareness, and continue to grow session to session. More importantly, though, Melissa’s main goal is to support you in reaching your goals in therapy.
Melissa’s professional background includes many years as a mental health professional in suicide prevention and crisis intervention, with a particular focus on supporting LGBTQ young people.
Melissa (she/they) believes that therapy should provide a supportive, empathetic, and nurturing space for clients. Ultimately, she recognizes that therapy can be hard and unearth a lot of emotions/experiences. They aim to utilize a collaborative, trauma-informed, and individualized therapeutic approach to best support you in exploring how you are feeling and where you want to go. Some of their goals are to ensure you feel heard, deepen your awareness, and continue to grow session to session. More importantly, though, Melissa’s main goal is to support you in reaching your goals in therapy.
(833) 956-1101 View (833) 956-1101
Photo of Vera Chanah Friedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Vera Chanah Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
For teenagers, I specialize in addressing common issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, bullying, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents grappling with challenges related to emotional regulation and distress tolerance. My approach is rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices, and I take pride in tailoring therapy sessions and treatment plans to meet your child's unique needs. My clinical experience includes working with individuals who have acute and chronic trauma, adjustment disorders, ADHD, ASD, behavioral concerns encountered at home and in school, global developmental delays, mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD.
For teenagers, I specialize in addressing common issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, bullying, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents grappling with challenges related to emotional regulation and distress tolerance. My approach is rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices, and I take pride in tailoring therapy sessions and treatment plans to meet your child's unique needs. My clinical experience includes working with individuals who have acute and chronic trauma, adjustment disorders, ADHD, ASD, behavioral concerns encountered at home and in school, global developmental delays, mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD.
(646) 825-6852 View (646) 825-6852
Photo of Alyssa Pravato, Pre-Licensed Professional, CAT-LP
Alyssa Pravato
Pre-Licensed Professional, CAT-LP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults, providing them with a safe and supportive space for those navigating the complexities of identity, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
My mixed approach of talk therapy and art therapy, provides creative expression to assist emotional regulation and personal growth. You DON'T need to have any artistic ability to engage in art therapy. Clients are able to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and achieve greater self-awareness through various artistic modalities.
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults, providing them with a safe and supportive space for those navigating the complexities of identity, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
My mixed approach of talk therapy and art therapy, provides creative expression to assist emotional regulation and personal growth. You DON'T need to have any artistic ability to engage in art therapy. Clients are able to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and achieve greater self-awareness through various artistic modalities.
(646) 212-2601 View (646) 212-2601
Photo of Dr. Sarah Herzog, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Sarah Herzog
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11233
I am a Brooklyn-based clinical psychologist and I specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, as well as challenges related to identity, relationship/dating, family conflict, burnout, and life transitions.
Trust is key to the therapeutic process. I'm committed to fostering an affirming, safe, and culturally sensitive environment. I have experience working with clients of diverse gender/sexual identities and racial/ethnic/cultural backgrounds. I am also intimately familiar with Orthodox Jewish/Chasidic communities and can provide frum-friendly care.
I am a Brooklyn-based clinical psychologist and I specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, as well as challenges related to identity, relationship/dating, family conflict, burnout, and life transitions.
Trust is key to the therapeutic process. I'm committed to fostering an affirming, safe, and culturally sensitive environment. I have experience working with clients of diverse gender/sexual identities and racial/ethnic/cultural backgrounds. I am also intimately familiar with Orthodox Jewish/Chasidic communities and can provide frum-friendly care.
(347) 658-3569 View (347) 658-3569
Photo of Nicole R. Narain, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Nicole R. Narain
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My area of expertise are anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, suicidal ideation and trauma informed care.
Everyone struggles at times and can use support. Whether it's with sadness, worry, relationships or the past. No matter what you're going through, this will be a safe space for you. I'm here to help. I am a licensed mental health counselor of 4 years and have mostly worked in nonprofit. I believe mental health care should be attainable for all, which is why I accept health insurances and offer reduced rates if needed. Much of my work has been with the Jewish community.
My area of expertise are anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, suicidal ideation and trauma informed care.
Everyone struggles at times and can use support. Whether it's with sadness, worry, relationships or the past. No matter what you're going through, this will be a safe space for you. I'm here to help. I am a licensed mental health counselor of 4 years and have mostly worked in nonprofit. I believe mental health care should be attainable for all, which is why I accept health insurances and offer reduced rates if needed. Much of my work has been with the Jewish community.
(929) 543-6113 View (929) 543-6113
Photo of Lydia Boaz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lydia Boaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Lydia has experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, loss of connection, difficulty communicating or difficulty trusting people, shame, self-harm, thoughts of suicide, and other post-traumatic symptoms.
Lydia is a trauma-focused and relational therapist who works with adults, children, families, and couples. She believes that the client is the expert in their experience and she engages with a curious and collaborative approach.
Lydia has experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, loss of connection, difficulty communicating or difficulty trusting people, shame, self-harm, thoughts of suicide, and other post-traumatic symptoms.
Lydia is a trauma-focused and relational therapist who works with adults, children, families, and couples. She believes that the client is the expert in their experience and she engages with a curious and collaborative approach.
(347) 952-7108 View (347) 952-7108
Photo of Brenda Veronica Castro, Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Brenda Veronica Castro
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Whether you are fighting suicidal ideation or pushing yourself to thrive, I will meet you where you are and draw on all my knowledge and experience to support you in a safe and nonjudgmental space.
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My style tends to be humanistic and existential. As a lifelong learner, I am passionate about continuing to explore emerging theories and techniques.
Whether you are fighting suicidal ideation or pushing yourself to thrive, I will meet you where you are and draw on all my knowledge and experience to support you in a safe and nonjudgmental space.
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My style tends to be humanistic and existential. As a lifelong learner, I am passionate about continuing to explore emerging theories and techniques.
(347) 472-1531 View (347) 472-1531
Photo of Liz Silverman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Liz Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I work with young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, issues related to drugs or alcohol, and those recovering and healing from trauma.
I approach therapy as collaborative journey to understand more about our selves, experiences, and relationships. At the heart of the work is an exploration of the unconscious with the aim of bridging our past and present. Within the therapeutic space we can develop insight that expands our consciousness of self, other, and the world around us.
I work with young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, issues related to drugs or alcohol, and those recovering and healing from trauma.
I approach therapy as collaborative journey to understand more about our selves, experiences, and relationships. At the heart of the work is an exploration of the unconscious with the aim of bridging our past and present. Within the therapeutic space we can develop insight that expands our consciousness of self, other, and the world around us.
(916) 216-4535 View (916) 216-4535
Photo of Adrienne Lee Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LIMHP, CMSW, SIFI
Adrienne Lee Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LIMHP, CMSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
Online Only
Adrienne’s interest in counseling began as a volunteer on The Trevor Project’s suicide prevention and crisis intervention lifeline.
During the coronavirus pandemic, she has worked frequently with individuals who suffer from long covid and grief. Adrienne also has experience volunteering with Planned Parenthood and working with individuals on depression, anxiety, trauma, transracial adoption and identity issues, gender and sexuality, and neurodivergence.
Adrienne’s interest in counseling began as a volunteer on The Trevor Project’s suicide prevention and crisis intervention lifeline.
During the coronavirus pandemic, she has worked frequently with individuals who suffer from long covid and grief. Adrienne also has experience volunteering with Planned Parenthood and working with individuals on depression, anxiety, trauma, transracial adoption and identity issues, gender and sexuality, and neurodivergence.
(718) 304-2228 View (718) 304-2228
Photo of Lana Krichmar, Psychologist, PhD
Lana Krichmar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I have extensive experience and expertise working with clients struggling with peer relationships and/or dating issues, typical challenges of life, those experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, crisis, among other issues.
Finding a psychologist who is a good fit, especially at the time of emotional crisis can be challenging. To find someone who is empathic, but also direct and firm, who is not afraid to call you out when you most need it, someone who understands the real life challenges of being a parent, teen, or young adult and who approaches challenges with a sense of humor and compassion, someone who has the right training, expertise, and schedule, can be daunting, to say the least. I am a CBT/DBT trained and practicing psychologist who is compassionate and direct.
I have extensive experience and expertise working with clients struggling with peer relationships and/or dating issues, typical challenges of life, those experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, crisis, among other issues.
Finding a psychologist who is a good fit, especially at the time of emotional crisis can be challenging. To find someone who is empathic, but also direct and firm, who is not afraid to call you out when you most need it, someone who understands the real life challenges of being a parent, teen, or young adult and who approaches challenges with a sense of humor and compassion, someone who has the right training, expertise, and schedule, can be daunting, to say the least. I am a CBT/DBT trained and practicing psychologist who is compassionate and direct.
(718) 255-9448 View (718) 255-9448
Photo of Josephine Ovalles - J. ovalles psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC-G
J. ovalles psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC-G
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm here to guide you to get solutions to deal with your symptoms of depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, anger management, suicidal ideation, substance abuse and other symptoms that you might be facing in your life.
I employ a variety of approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered, problem solving, dialectical behavioral theory, and I also incorporate various theoretical backgrounds to address clients need and work toward changes in their lives.
I'm here to guide you to get solutions to deal with your symptoms of depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, anger management, suicidal ideation, substance abuse and other symptoms that you might be facing in your life.
I employ a variety of approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered, problem solving, dialectical behavioral theory, and I also incorporate various theoretical backgrounds to address clients need and work toward changes in their lives.
(347) 515-6017 View (347) 515-6017
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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.