Photo of Stephanie Lay, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Stephanie Lay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
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 Michael Miyasato, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Michael Miyasato
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
We live in a culture that is constantly pushing us to strive for perfection. Whether in school, work, or our everyday lives, the need to constantly achieve can put great strain on our self and those we care about. This can lead to chronic depression or anxiety, social isolation, feelings of inadequacy, or even thoughts of suicide. Through compassionate acceptance and practical skill building I can help. Whether you're seeking to improve your day to day functioning or understand your identity and purpose, I can help you move forward.
We live in a culture that is constantly pushing us to strive for perfection. Whether in school, work, or our everyday lives, the need to constantly achieve can put great strain on our self and those we care about. This can lead to chronic depression or anxiety, social isolation, feelings of inadequacy, or even thoughts of suicide. Through compassionate acceptance and practical skill building I can help. Whether you're seeking to improve your day to day functioning or understand your identity and purpose, I can help you move forward.
(510) 756-4564 View (510) 756-4564
Photo of Makhetsi Tessien, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Makhetsi Tessien
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I help people with a variety of issues but some of my areas of focus include: relationship issues, suicidal thoughts and feelings, addiction, trauma, and over-working.
Asking for help takes courage when you find yourself overwhelmed and not sure what to do. I approach my work with compassion and understanding. I strive to create an environment for you that is free of judgement. I believe that the purpose of therapy is to learn more about ourselves by expressing ourselves openly and honestly without emphasis on what is "right" or "wrong." This can help us identify deep patterns that keep us stuck and create new ways of dealing with life's challenges and being in relationships.
I help people with a variety of issues but some of my areas of focus include: relationship issues, suicidal thoughts and feelings, addiction, trauma, and over-working.
Asking for help takes courage when you find yourself overwhelmed and not sure what to do. I approach my work with compassion and understanding. I strive to create an environment for you that is free of judgement. I believe that the purpose of therapy is to learn more about ourselves by expressing ourselves openly and honestly without emphasis on what is "right" or "wrong." This can help us identify deep patterns that keep us stuck and create new ways of dealing with life's challenges and being in relationships.
(510) 901-5337 View (510) 901-5337
Photo of Boston Child Study Center - California (LA & SF), Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Boston Child Study Center - California (LA & SF)
Psychologist, MD, PhD, MA, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
We are a comprehensively trained multidisciplinary team of clinicians, psychologists, and psychiatrists who provide evidence-based treatment to children, adolescents, young adults & families. Starting with the science and research, we deliver evidence-based treatment tailored to your family's individual needs. Our early and middle childhood team specializes in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C) to treat anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, disruptive behaviors, selective mutism, trauma and depression. Our adolescent and young adult programs specialize in providing DBT and DBT-Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), ACT and Exposure Therapy (ExRP) to treat anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, suicidal behaviors, non-suicidal self-injury (self-harm), substance use, disordered eating, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, non-verbal learning disability, as well as PTSD and Complex-PTSD. Additionally, we offer parent coaching, family therapy, and couples therapy.
We are a comprehensively trained multidisciplinary team of clinicians, psychologists, and psychiatrists who provide evidence-based treatment to children, adolescents, young adults & families. Starting with the science and research, we deliver evidence-based treatment tailored to your family's individual needs. Our early and middle childhood team specializes in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C) to treat anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, disruptive behaviors, selective mutism, trauma and depression. Our adolescent and young adult programs specialize in providing DBT and DBT-Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), ACT and Exposure Therapy (ExRP) to treat anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, suicidal behaviors, non-suicidal self-injury (self-harm), substance use, disordered eating, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, non-verbal learning disability, as well as PTSD and Complex-PTSD. Additionally, we offer parent coaching, family therapy, and couples therapy.
(818) 210-4739 View (818) 210-4739
Photo of Sonia Kakkar, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Francisco, CA
Sonia Kakkar
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I have an extensive background working with individuals who are navigating symptoms of complex trauma, anxiety and depression. I have experience with supporting youth around managing suicidal ideation and healing from ruptures in attachments. I utilize evidenced based practices to help you explore your thoughts, behaviors and gain valuable insights into patterns to impact positive change. My approach is client centered and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I have an extensive background working with individuals who are navigating symptoms of complex trauma, anxiety and depression. I have experience with supporting youth around managing suicidal ideation and healing from ruptures in attachments. I utilize evidenced based practices to help you explore your thoughts, behaviors and gain valuable insights into patterns to impact positive change. My approach is client centered and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families.
(925) 275-5836 View (925) 275-5836
Photo of Paul Beirne, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Paul Beirne
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I have experience treating a wide range of issues (depression, suicidal ideation, bullying, behavior problems, substance abuse, etc).
“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.” ― Bessel A. van der Kolk. My approach to treatment helps people identify the core issues that have been avoided and pushed aside in an emotionally safe environment. Through the process of consciousness raising and self exploration, lasting changes in thought patterns are made, and overall life improvement occurs. I work with people of all ages and have a wealth of experience working with teens and young adults.
I have experience treating a wide range of issues (depression, suicidal ideation, bullying, behavior problems, substance abuse, etc).
“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.” ― Bessel A. van der Kolk. My approach to treatment helps people identify the core issues that have been avoided and pushed aside in an emotionally safe environment. Through the process of consciousness raising and self exploration, lasting changes in thought patterns are made, and overall life improvement occurs. I work with people of all ages and have a wealth of experience working with teens and young adults.
(415) 358-2498 View (415) 358-2498
Photo of Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, PCC, LMFT, IO, CGE, DTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
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.
(510) 319-0688 View (510) 319-0688
Photo of Inspiration Psychological Services, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Inspiration Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I also provide consultation in the areas of suicide, violence reduction, and program development.
In far too many situations individuals with bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia have internalized messages that there is no hope, that they are simply victims of their mental illness, and unable to reach their life goals. My practice, Inspiration Psychological Services' primary purpose is to provide individuals who struggle with mental illness with the neccessary coping skills that they need to manage symptoms, cope with everyday life challenges, and improve the quality of their lives. I strongly believe in providing a supportive atmosphere that consists of understanding individual experiences, addressing needs, instilling hope, building on strengths, and recognizing potential.
I also provide consultation in the areas of suicide, violence reduction, and program development.
In far too many situations individuals with bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia have internalized messages that there is no hope, that they are simply victims of their mental illness, and unable to reach their life goals. My practice, Inspiration Psychological Services' primary purpose is to provide individuals who struggle with mental illness with the neccessary coping skills that they need to manage symptoms, cope with everyday life challenges, and improve the quality of their lives. I strongly believe in providing a supportive atmosphere that consists of understanding individual experiences, addressing needs, instilling hope, building on strengths, and recognizing potential.
(281) 940-2212 View (281) 940-2212
Photo of Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
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.
(510) 319-0688 View (510) 319-0688
Photo of Dawn Krusi, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dawn Krusi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I hold an empathetic, safe space, to address symptoms such as depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, lack of motivation, thoughts of suicide, and troubled relationships.
It takes courage to address pain, childhood wounds, traumas and unresolved beliefs and patterns which negatively impact relationships, emotions, goals, motivation and sense of self. I deeply believe in one's innate knowledge and capacity to heal, and aspire toward wholeness. I teach simple tools and practices, in addition to supporting you on your journey. This empowers your vision, your heart, and your perception of the world around you, creating healthier relationships and increased joy. My practice includes: relationship issues, depression, trauma, addiction, family conflict, grief, life changes and children's behavioral issues.
I hold an empathetic, safe space, to address symptoms such as depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, lack of motivation, thoughts of suicide, and troubled relationships.
It takes courage to address pain, childhood wounds, traumas and unresolved beliefs and patterns which negatively impact relationships, emotions, goals, motivation and sense of self. I deeply believe in one's innate knowledge and capacity to heal, and aspire toward wholeness. I teach simple tools and practices, in addition to supporting you on your journey. This empowers your vision, your heart, and your perception of the world around you, creating healthier relationships and increased joy. My practice includes: relationship issues, depression, trauma, addiction, family conflict, grief, life changes and children's behavioral issues.
(530) 798-4802 View (530) 798-4802
Photo of Kaitlyn Courtney Maddox, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kaitlyn Courtney Maddox
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94129  (Online Only)
I am an associate marriage family therapist. I have approximately three years of experience working with foster children and families, and at-risk youth. I have provided therapy for teenagers and survivors of domestic violence. These opportunities have given me a desire to continue serving children, teens, families, and all ages and groups of people at all stages of life. I have worked with individuals exhibiting signs of depression, anxiety, trauma, suicide ideation, and self-harming behaviors. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe environment while building a secure therapeutic alliance with my clients.
I am an associate marriage family therapist. I have approximately three years of experience working with foster children and families, and at-risk youth. I have provided therapy for teenagers and survivors of domestic violence. These opportunities have given me a desire to continue serving children, teens, families, and all ages and groups of people at all stages of life. I have worked with individuals exhibiting signs of depression, anxiety, trauma, suicide ideation, and self-harming behaviors. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe environment while building a secure therapeutic alliance with my clients.
(530) 507-7703 View (530) 507-7703
Photo of Brian D Gustman, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Brian D Gustman
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am licensed clinical psychologist and school psychologist working with preschool children through adults. Clients who usually fit well with me have often reached a point of thinking that enough-is-enough, whether that is problem behaviors with a child, teens who are anxious/irritable/depressed, college students who are having major life changes, or adults who are having work or personal difficulties. I particularly specialize in the treatment of Trauma & Stress-Related Disorders. Clients who allow me to look out for them the way they do for their friends/family often find our work together to be helpful.
I am licensed clinical psychologist and school psychologist working with preschool children through adults. Clients who usually fit well with me have often reached a point of thinking that enough-is-enough, whether that is problem behaviors with a child, teens who are anxious/irritable/depressed, college students who are having major life changes, or adults who are having work or personal difficulties. I particularly specialize in the treatment of Trauma & Stress-Related Disorders. Clients who allow me to look out for them the way they do for their friends/family often find our work together to be helpful.
(415) 702-2017 View (415) 702-2017
Photo of Elizabeth Finnerty, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Elizabeth Finnerty
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Ventura County, California. I work with adolescents and adult clients statewide via telehealth, as well as in-person in Westlake Village, and specialize in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, suicidality, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I am committed to tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client. Life presents all of us with challenges that we are not meant to navigate alone. It is infinitely more meaningful when we can explore our inner worlds in the safe presence of another.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Ventura County, California. I work with adolescents and adult clients statewide via telehealth, as well as in-person in Westlake Village, and specialize in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, suicidality, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I am committed to tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client. Life presents all of us with challenges that we are not meant to navigate alone. It is infinitely more meaningful when we can explore our inner worlds in the safe presence of another.
(805) 243-2209 View (805) 243-2209
Photo of Arielle Piastunovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Arielle Piastunovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
(650) 206-9870 View (650) 206-9870
Photo of Bianca Aarons Integrative Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Bianca Aarons Integrative Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Bianca Aarons is a San Francisco based Couples Therapist and Individual Therapist who works in an integrative way, incorporating a psychoanalytic, relational, and somatic styles of working. Bianca treats couples who struggle with communication, survivors of sexual abuse, and others to help people find their voice, to feel empowered, and to access healthy anger and boundaries. Bianca also works with people who struggle within relationships because of anxiety and past family issues which may have let to lower self esteem and perfectionism. She works in a direct and honest way while also being very compassionate and empathetic.
Bianca Aarons is a San Francisco based Couples Therapist and Individual Therapist who works in an integrative way, incorporating a psychoanalytic, relational, and somatic styles of working. Bianca treats couples who struggle with communication, survivors of sexual abuse, and others to help people find their voice, to feel empowered, and to access healthy anger and boundaries. Bianca also works with people who struggle within relationships because of anxiety and past family issues which may have let to lower self esteem and perfectionism. She works in a direct and honest way while also being very compassionate and empathetic.
(415) 319-6218 View (415) 319-6218
Photo of Mara Dubey, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Mara Dubey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
If you've stumbled upon this page I imagine that you're trying to find a therapist that you feel like you can talk to, someone who will understand you. From this page and my website, I hope you can get a feel for me and how I work. I see psychotherapy as a place where you get to express yourself as freely as possible within the context of a trusting and supportive relationship.
If you've stumbled upon this page I imagine that you're trying to find a therapist that you feel like you can talk to, someone who will understand you. From this page and my website, I hope you can get a feel for me and how I work. I see psychotherapy as a place where you get to express yourself as freely as possible within the context of a trusting and supportive relationship.
(415) 873-9145 View (415) 873-9145
Photo of Claire Greenwood, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Claire Greenwood
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I provide contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy, focusing on individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges, and with an emphasis on queer, trans and non-binary experiences. My approach integrates a keen understanding of queer and gender issues, recognizing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in these contexts. I believe that our psychological symptoms are deeply connected to our early experiences, family histories, and the broader societal systems we inhabit, including those related to race and gender identity, class, and sexual orientation. I also offer EMDR for trauma and phobias.
I provide contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy, focusing on individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges, and with an emphasis on queer, trans and non-binary experiences. My approach integrates a keen understanding of queer and gender issues, recognizing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in these contexts. I believe that our psychological symptoms are deeply connected to our early experiences, family histories, and the broader societal systems we inhabit, including those related to race and gender identity, class, and sexual orientation. I also offer EMDR for trauma and phobias.
(415) 341-9809 View (415) 341-9809
Photo of Ashley Singh, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ashley Singh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
The heart of my work centers around adults of the South Asian Diaspora. My goal in emphasizing my practice here is to recognize a need for folks to have a therapist who truly understands their background and can create safety in talking about parts of the culture that can feel shameful or misunderstood from a Western perspective. The most common areas of focus include family of origin issues, intergenerational trauma and creating space to heal your inner child, acknowledging your grief, exploring your TRUE identity, and cultivating positive relationships by creating boundaries and building self-esteem + confidence.
The heart of my work centers around adults of the South Asian Diaspora. My goal in emphasizing my practice here is to recognize a need for folks to have a therapist who truly understands their background and can create safety in talking about parts of the culture that can feel shameful or misunderstood from a Western perspective. The most common areas of focus include family of origin issues, intergenerational trauma and creating space to heal your inner child, acknowledging your grief, exploring your TRUE identity, and cultivating positive relationships by creating boundaries and building self-esteem + confidence.
(415) 926-2202 x1 View (415) 926-2202 x1
Photo of Raina Verma, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Raina Verma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
No matter what age or developmental phase of life we are in, it can be so easy to become trapped in ideas of who we should be or how we should be by looking to external comparisons. In therapy, I offer myself as an ally and guide to help you discover the version of yourself that brings you the most internal joy and satisfaction. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment in the therapy room that allows you to consider all facets of yourself and to truly examine what your needs are and how to meet them.
No matter what age or developmental phase of life we are in, it can be so easy to become trapped in ideas of who we should be or how we should be by looking to external comparisons. In therapy, I offer myself as an ally and guide to help you discover the version of yourself that brings you the most internal joy and satisfaction. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment in the therapy room that allows you to consider all facets of yourself and to truly examine what your needs are and how to meet them.
(415) 964-3166 View (415) 964-3166
Photo of Jessica Daniel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Jessica Daniel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I work well with individuals and couples who are finding themselves at times of change. Change has the potential for transformation - whether that change is motivated by a desire to grow and seek greater fulfillment or one that is an unexpected cause of suffering. I love working with people one-on-one or in the context of a relationship to find their paths toward acceptance, connection, and wholeness.
I work well with individuals and couples who are finding themselves at times of change. Change has the potential for transformation - whether that change is motivated by a desire to grow and seek greater fulfillment or one that is an unexpected cause of suffering. I love working with people one-on-one or in the context of a relationship to find their paths toward acceptance, connection, and wholeness.
(628) 209-6320 View (628) 209-6320

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.