Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Natalia Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Natalia Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I provide quality care for women who are diagnosed, misdiagnosed or suspected high-masking autistic, and continue to have challenges with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, trouble with socialization, and healthy relationships.
Feeling alone while surrounded by people intensifies the loneliness. No matter how much you try to do everything right, you somehow always feel like you're looking through a piece of glass. Maybe you've kept a few friendships but lost more than you can count without any reason provided. You'd rather be home than go out because socializing is exhausting. You've been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or more in the past, and while some symptoms have subsided with treatment, it doesn't seem to fully leave you. You've always felt like an outsider even when you try your hardest to fit in.
I provide quality care for women who are diagnosed, misdiagnosed or suspected high-masking autistic, and continue to have challenges with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, trouble with socialization, and healthy relationships.
Feeling alone while surrounded by people intensifies the loneliness. No matter how much you try to do everything right, you somehow always feel like you're looking through a piece of glass. Maybe you've kept a few friendships but lost more than you can count without any reason provided. You'd rather be home than go out because socializing is exhausting. You've been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or more in the past, and while some symptoms have subsided with treatment, it doesn't seem to fully leave you. You've always felt like an outsider even when you try your hardest to fit in.
(510) 447-1494 View (510) 447-1494
Photo of Susan Futterman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Susan Futterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
My focus on suicide comes out of my own experience.
I am primarily focused on working with bereaved individuals and/or families who have lost someone to suicide as well as working with individuals who have made suicide attempts in the past or are considering an attempt. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with emotional/psychological trauma of all types, as well as with depression and grief. I also have experience working with people dealing with challenges such as bipolar disorder. I provide both individual and group therapy.
My focus on suicide comes out of my own experience.
I am primarily focused on working with bereaved individuals and/or families who have lost someone to suicide as well as working with individuals who have made suicide attempts in the past or are considering an attempt. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with emotional/psychological trauma of all types, as well as with depression and grief. I also have experience working with people dealing with challenges such as bipolar disorder. I provide both individual and group therapy.
(415) 870-8056 View (415) 870-8056
Photo of Stephanie Lay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Stephanie Lay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94603
Stephanie specializes in working with young people (12 - 30 years old), queer populations, people in transition (gender, sexuality, and life), and nerds, geeks & gamers. Their clinical specialities include suicidal ideation, self harm, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender identity, and sexual abuse/assault.
Stephanie specializes in working with young people (12 - 30 years old), queer populations, people in transition (gender, sexuality, and life), and nerds, geeks & gamers. Their clinical specialities include suicidal ideation, self harm, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender identity, and sexual abuse/assault.
(650) 481-9439 View (650) 481-9439
Photo of Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, PCC, LMFT, IO, CGE, DTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
(415) 237-2282 View (415) 237-2282
Photo of Danielle Marie Lefevre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Danielle Marie Lefevre
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
I have extensive experience working in an outpatient setting supporting teens and young adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, school stress, family issues, suicidal ideation, and self harm.
I believe therapy plays an integral role in personal growth and healing, and the relationship between client and therapist is an important part of the journey. I have provided therapy to teens and adults throughout the past decade using an individualized and supportive approach. I understand that each person has different strengths, needs, and a unique story. I strive to create an environment that is safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate. I believe in people’s ability to grow and transform when given access to the support and tools they need.
I have extensive experience working in an outpatient setting supporting teens and young adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, school stress, family issues, suicidal ideation, and self harm.
I believe therapy plays an integral role in personal growth and healing, and the relationship between client and therapist is an important part of the journey. I have provided therapy to teens and adults throughout the past decade using an individualized and supportive approach. I understand that each person has different strengths, needs, and a unique story. I strive to create an environment that is safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate. I believe in people’s ability to grow and transform when given access to the support and tools they need.
(510) 901-5074 View (510) 901-5074
Photo of Suzie Rudloff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Suzie Rudloff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I have in-depth experience involving issues in the LGBTQIA2s+ community, gender, neurodivergence, suicide, cultural differences, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and disabilities.
People come to therapy with unique needs, concerns, and life circumstances. Through the process of self-inquiry, I help clients gain insight and develop effective coping skills to move through a challenge with greater ease and understanding. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate and curious about one's experience. I use an attachment based, person-centered approach that offers individuals and couples clarity around repetitive patterns that cause pain, conflict, and limit growth.
I have in-depth experience involving issues in the LGBTQIA2s+ community, gender, neurodivergence, suicide, cultural differences, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and disabilities.
People come to therapy with unique needs, concerns, and life circumstances. Through the process of self-inquiry, I help clients gain insight and develop effective coping skills to move through a challenge with greater ease and understanding. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate and curious about one's experience. I use an attachment based, person-centered approach that offers individuals and couples clarity around repetitive patterns that cause pain, conflict, and limit growth.
(510) 269-2252 View (510) 269-2252
Photo of Jose Guadalupe Hurtado, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jose Guadalupe Hurtado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Specialize in treatment of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, anger management, and suicidal ideation and attempts.
Are you experiencing depression, anger, anxiety issues? I am a Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years experience of working with adults, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma, abuse, and crime victimization. I am experienced in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, individual, and family therapy. I support families with gang membership issues and individuals out of the prison system; including abused, neglected and trauma or community violence impacted families. I have worked with anxiety, depression, individuals with suicide attempts, addiction and DUI issues. Mondays and Saturdays
Specialize in treatment of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, anger management, and suicidal ideation and attempts.
Are you experiencing depression, anger, anxiety issues? I am a Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years experience of working with adults, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma, abuse, and crime victimization. I am experienced in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, individual, and family therapy. I support families with gang membership issues and individuals out of the prison system; including abused, neglected and trauma or community violence impacted families. I have worked with anxiety, depression, individuals with suicide attempts, addiction and DUI issues. Mondays and Saturdays
(831) 534-9295 View (831) 534-9295
Photo of Steve Cutshall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Steve Cutshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Although I specialize in working with people with substance use disorders, I've also worked with clients who struggled with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, grief, and loss.
I am a person in long-term recovery providing psychotherapy to people with substance use disorders. I am familiar with many treatment centers and recovery fellowships in the Bay Area. I provide a nonjudgmental, direct approach and a sense of humor to address addiction and its root causes. If recovery through abstinence is your goal, I am able to tailor a relapse prevention plan to your specific needs.
Although I specialize in working with people with substance use disorders, I've also worked with clients who struggled with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, grief, and loss.
I am a person in long-term recovery providing psychotherapy to people with substance use disorders. I am familiar with many treatment centers and recovery fellowships in the Bay Area. I provide a nonjudgmental, direct approach and a sense of humor to address addiction and its root causes. If recovery through abstinence is your goal, I am able to tailor a relapse prevention plan to your specific needs.
(510) 544-6370 View (510) 544-6370
Photo of Andrea Weicker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Andrea Weicker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Therapy should be focused on you and your needs. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what to do about your teen's anxiety? Do you worry a lot, often leaving you anxious, exhausted and overwhelmed? Has parenting become a constant battle, leaving you feeling drained and exhausted? I can help. I have extensive experience working with teens and parents who have experienced trauma, who have suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, school refusal, anxiety, OCD, social withdraw, bullying, low self-esteem, and depression. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Therapy should be focused on you and your needs. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what to do about your teen's anxiety? Do you worry a lot, often leaving you anxious, exhausted and overwhelmed? Has parenting become a constant battle, leaving you feeling drained and exhausted? I can help. I have extensive experience working with teens and parents who have experienced trauma, who have suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, school refusal, anxiety, OCD, social withdraw, bullying, low self-esteem, and depression. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
(510) 694-1783 View (510) 694-1783
Photo of Alia Dolan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alia Dolan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
I have over twenty years of clinical experiencing in helping clients of all ages cope with loss and other life transitions or stressors, including families who are involved with Hospice, those suffering from suicide loss, traumatic or sudden deaths, and work with teens and young adults who are experiencing life stressors.
Are you experiencing a loss, going through a life transition, feeling the impact of everyday stress, or just needing a space for someone to hold your feelings? Or are you an adolescent or young adult who needs the support of another caring adult, or a parent/caregiver who wants this type of support for your teen? Do you want to be able to share (unedited) your experience with someone who will help you navigate through it?
I have over twenty years of clinical experiencing in helping clients of all ages cope with loss and other life transitions or stressors, including families who are involved with Hospice, those suffering from suicide loss, traumatic or sudden deaths, and work with teens and young adults who are experiencing life stressors.
Are you experiencing a loss, going through a life transition, feeling the impact of everyday stress, or just needing a space for someone to hold your feelings? Or are you an adolescent or young adult who needs the support of another caring adult, or a parent/caregiver who wants this type of support for your teen? Do you want to be able to share (unedited) your experience with someone who will help you navigate through it?
(415) 360-3340 View (415) 360-3340
Photo of Crystal Harper, Pastoral Counselor in Oakland, CA
Crystal Harper
Pastoral Counselor, DMinCC, LCPC, CTSS, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? How about your relationship? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior? Do you want to experience more peace and well-being? I effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from traumatic experiences. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, and PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and believe in taking a holistic approach to counseling.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? How about your relationship? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior? Do you want to experience more peace and well-being? I effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from traumatic experiences. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, and PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and believe in taking a holistic approach to counseling.
(916) 579-7621 View (916) 579-7621
Photo of Katharina Klakus, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Katharina Klakus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am a licensed child psychologist with extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families. My specialization lies in helping clients navigate through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family stress, learning, behavioral and attention difficulties, life transitions, trauma, separation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, I offer guidance to parents, helping them understand their children's challenges and strengths more deeply, enhance family communication and connection, and learn effective parenting and coping skills.
I am a licensed child psychologist with extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families. My specialization lies in helping clients navigate through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family stress, learning, behavioral and attention difficulties, life transitions, trauma, separation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, I offer guidance to parents, helping them understand their children's challenges and strengths more deeply, enhance family communication and connection, and learn effective parenting and coping skills.
(847) 499-1427 View (847) 499-1427
Photo of Melinda White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Melinda White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I presented my research at Society for Social Work Research in Washington DC (2018), UMHCA Conference (2017),, Utah Valley University Suicide Prevention Conference (2017), and NATSAP National Association 2018.
I currently provide telehealth services for anyone residing in California or Utah. I believe the core self knows what we need in order to heal if we listen. I have experience with teens/adults who struggle with suicidality/self-injury, trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life-transitions, and spiritual/religious crises. We apply in-depth DBT, and also (importantly) what comes after DBT. I am trained in Mindfulness, DBT Foundations, EMDR, and Sand Tray work. I work well with spiritual orientations, behavioral approaches, narrative and strengths-based work. My doctoral research focused on self-injury.
I presented my research at Society for Social Work Research in Washington DC (2018), UMHCA Conference (2017),, Utah Valley University Suicide Prevention Conference (2017), and NATSAP National Association 2018.
I currently provide telehealth services for anyone residing in California or Utah. I believe the core self knows what we need in order to heal if we listen. I have experience with teens/adults who struggle with suicidality/self-injury, trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life-transitions, and spiritual/religious crises. We apply in-depth DBT, and also (importantly) what comes after DBT. I am trained in Mindfulness, DBT Foundations, EMDR, and Sand Tray work. I work well with spiritual orientations, behavioral approaches, narrative and strengths-based work. My doctoral research focused on self-injury.
(385) 526-3729 View (385) 526-3729
Photo of Michelle Charness-Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Michelle Charness-Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
My clinical focus is on issues of trauma, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), abuse, grief, domestic violence, self-esteem, couples' dynamics, and suicidal ideation.
My name is Michelle Charness-Adams, and I have my LCSW (licensed clinical social worker), as well as a PsyD (doctorate in clinical psychology) and my JD in law. I believe that everyone deserves a chance to live their best life and that therapy can help you achieve this in a nurturing, empathic, and caring environment. I strive to aid clients in their journey toward self-awareness, acceptance, and self-love in an environment based on trust, safety, and validation.
My clinical focus is on issues of trauma, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), abuse, grief, domestic violence, self-esteem, couples' dynamics, and suicidal ideation.
My name is Michelle Charness-Adams, and I have my LCSW (licensed clinical social worker), as well as a PsyD (doctorate in clinical psychology) and my JD in law. I believe that everyone deserves a chance to live their best life and that therapy can help you achieve this in a nurturing, empathic, and caring environment. I strive to aid clients in their journey toward self-awareness, acceptance, and self-love in an environment based on trust, safety, and validation.
(323) 618-6166 View (323) 618-6166
Photo of Physician-Specialized Therapeutic Services , Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Physician-Specialized Therapeutic Services
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
Seen as pillars of society, as a physician you may feel you have no one to turn to right now. The pre-pandemic statistics are especially upsetting: 29% of resident physicians experienced depression; 16% of emergency physicians met the criteria for a post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis, & doctors have a higher risk of death by suicide compared to other professions. We stand to lose 1 doctor a day to suicide. The pandemic has been especially challenging for physicians, their families, & the medical community in general: doctors are experiencing burnout from new challenges they are encountering. Burnout is not a ride of passage.
Seen as pillars of society, as a physician you may feel you have no one to turn to right now. The pre-pandemic statistics are especially upsetting: 29% of resident physicians experienced depression; 16% of emergency physicians met the criteria for a post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis, & doctors have a higher risk of death by suicide compared to other professions. We stand to lose 1 doctor a day to suicide. The pandemic has been especially challenging for physicians, their families, & the medical community in general: doctors are experiencing burnout from new challenges they are encountering. Burnout is not a ride of passage.
(360) 228-2952 View (360) 228-2952
Photo of Tiffany Justine, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Tiffany Justine
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
My name is Tiffany Trent, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in treating trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, and women’s issues. I have extensive experience and passion working with and treating teenagers and adults with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, trauma, PTSD, identity issues, self-harming behaviors, and suicidal ideation. I take an eclectic approach to therapy and utilize Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, Narrative, CBT, and Psychodynamic modalities in therapy and individualize therapy to fit the person rather than try to fit the complexities of a human being into a modality.
My name is Tiffany Trent, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in treating trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, and women’s issues. I have extensive experience and passion working with and treating teenagers and adults with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, trauma, PTSD, identity issues, self-harming behaviors, and suicidal ideation. I take an eclectic approach to therapy and utilize Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, Narrative, CBT, and Psychodynamic modalities in therapy and individualize therapy to fit the person rather than try to fit the complexities of a human being into a modality.
(559) 238-0277 View (559) 238-0277
Photo of Anna M Musco, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Anna M Musco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Damaged relationships with the world and our families can affect us deeply throughout our lives leaving us feeling isolated, uncomfortable in our bodies and generally unsafe. Our energy begins to decline along with our enthusiasm for life. Its confusing. We quietly stonewall everything and everyone while wishing for the right partner, right career and right friends. Feelings of insecurity, loneliness or shame can spiral into deep bouts of depression, acting out, despair and suicide. Prioritizing the needs of everyone else can lead to unhealthy behaviors and choices supplanting authenticity and joy, while swapping virtual reality for real relationships and happiness.
Damaged relationships with the world and our families can affect us deeply throughout our lives leaving us feeling isolated, uncomfortable in our bodies and generally unsafe. Our energy begins to decline along with our enthusiasm for life. Its confusing. We quietly stonewall everything and everyone while wishing for the right partner, right career and right friends. Feelings of insecurity, loneliness or shame can spiral into deep bouts of depression, acting out, despair and suicide. Prioritizing the needs of everyone else can lead to unhealthy behaviors and choices supplanting authenticity and joy, while swapping virtual reality for real relationships and happiness.
(510) 466-1346 View (510) 466-1346
Photo of Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
(650) 727-1761 View (650) 727-1761
Photo of Olivia Donnini, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Olivia Donnini
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94604  (Online Only)
Folks reach out because there is something they want to shift in their life and they need some support in making the changes they wish to see. Most commonly, people share with me that they seek therapy because of an increased sense of overwhelm, feelings of hopelessness, changes in social dynamics and relationships, a newfound or returned sense of hopelessness, feelings of loss or grief, and more. My role is to help tap into what you already know, identify the patterns you may want to shift, and develop a greater trust in yourself to enact change in our relationship and in the outside world as well!
Folks reach out because there is something they want to shift in their life and they need some support in making the changes they wish to see. Most commonly, people share with me that they seek therapy because of an increased sense of overwhelm, feelings of hopelessness, changes in social dynamics and relationships, a newfound or returned sense of hopelessness, feelings of loss or grief, and more. My role is to help tap into what you already know, identify the patterns you may want to shift, and develop a greater trust in yourself to enact change in our relationship and in the outside world as well!
(510) 662-0879 View (510) 662-0879
Photo of Andrea Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Andrea Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I am an LCSW with experience working with adolescents, families, people struggling with significant mental health difficulties, loss and grief
I am an LCSW with experience working with adolescents, families, people struggling with significant mental health difficulties, loss and grief
(415) 223-8370 View (415) 223-8370
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.