Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Samantha Morrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Samantha Morrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have worked in a multitude of clinical settings, offering therapy for traumas related to suicide, rape, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-injurious behavior and major life adjustments.
Each individual is unique and resilient. My goal in therapy is to find and respect those qualities, and to work together in identifying coping tools that will promote profound and lasting changes. I have been practicing for over ten years. My training has covered trauma-informed care, crisis intervention and psychodynamic therapy. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Maryland and my master's degree in clinical social work at the University of Pennsylvania. I earned my independent clinical social work license in Washington, DC.
I have worked in a multitude of clinical settings, offering therapy for traumas related to suicide, rape, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-injurious behavior and major life adjustments.
Each individual is unique and resilient. My goal in therapy is to find and respect those qualities, and to work together in identifying coping tools that will promote profound and lasting changes. I have been practicing for over ten years. My training has covered trauma-informed care, crisis intervention and psychodynamic therapy. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Maryland and my master's degree in clinical social work at the University of Pennsylvania. I earned my independent clinical social work license in Washington, DC.
(202) 335-5319 View (202) 335-5319
Photo of Chris Brearly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Chris Brearly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
I've worked with a variety of concerns including depression, suicidal ideation, generalized anxiety, panic attacks, recurring nightmares, flashbacks, phobias, grief, relationship conflicts, workplace issues, and existential questioning.
Therapy is a powerful means of restoring wellness and creating lasting change. I have experienced this in my own life and enjoy seeing this unfold for my clients. I am passionate about working with clients to develop self-compassion and emotional intelligence, and establishing a greater sense of groundedness and self-esteem. I am trained in EMDR and often use this therapeutic approach to significantly reduce distress associated with trauma and other adverse life experiences. EMDR can also be helpful for clients in breaking free from stuck patterns of thinking and feeling that are resistant to traditional talk therapy approaches.
I've worked with a variety of concerns including depression, suicidal ideation, generalized anxiety, panic attacks, recurring nightmares, flashbacks, phobias, grief, relationship conflicts, workplace issues, and existential questioning.
Therapy is a powerful means of restoring wellness and creating lasting change. I have experienced this in my own life and enjoy seeing this unfold for my clients. I am passionate about working with clients to develop self-compassion and emotional intelligence, and establishing a greater sense of groundedness and self-esteem. I am trained in EMDR and often use this therapeutic approach to significantly reduce distress associated with trauma and other adverse life experiences. EMDR can also be helpful for clients in breaking free from stuck patterns of thinking and feeling that are resistant to traditional talk therapy approaches.
(202) 335-6327 View (202) 335-6327
Photo of Raquel Grigera, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Raquel Grigera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Grigera is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, self-injury, suicidal ideation, trauma, and relationship concerns. She provides individualized evidence-based therapeutic services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She has extensive experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Dr. Grigera has worked in a variety of settings, including private practices, public school systems, medical centers, and residential treatment centers.
Dr. Grigera is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, self-injury, suicidal ideation, trauma, and relationship concerns. She provides individualized evidence-based therapeutic services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She has extensive experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Dr. Grigera has worked in a variety of settings, including private practices, public school systems, medical centers, and residential treatment centers.
(202) 831-2138 View (202) 831-2138
Photo of Jillian Meinhardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jillian Meinhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
We also offer suicide prevention trainings for clinicians.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that take over your child's body? Does your child have trouble leaving the house, nervous about new situations, have excess energy, feel low or experience mood swings? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
We also offer suicide prevention trainings for clinicians.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that take over your child's body? Does your child have trouble leaving the house, nervous about new situations, have excess energy, feel low or experience mood swings? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
(202) 875-6450 View (202) 875-6450
Photo of Élison Silva Santos, Psychological Associate in Washington, DC
Élison Silva Santos
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
With over 16 years of dedicated service to clients, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, including adults, adolescents, couples, and groups. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been on providing support to those struggling with a wide range of emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, suicidal ideation, and OCD.
With over 16 years of dedicated service to clients, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, including adults, adolescents, couples, and groups. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been on providing support to those struggling with a wide range of emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, suicidal ideation, and OCD.
(202) 858-1784 View (202) 858-1784
Photo of Jennifer Mostafa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Jennifer Mostafa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My Specialties include working with (but not limited to); LGBTQIA+ persons, couples work (traditional and non-traditional), Trans teens, Suicide prevention and intervention, bi-polar and identity challenges/transitions (ie.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
My Specialties include working with (but not limited to); LGBTQIA+ persons, couples work (traditional and non-traditional), Trans teens, Suicide prevention and intervention, bi-polar and identity challenges/transitions (ie.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
(202) 304-1180 View (202) 304-1180
Photo of Stephanie Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Stephanie Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20032  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, life transitions, bereavement, etc.
Many times as People of Color we often feel alone with our situation or don’t feel understood. We may have thoughts that we are not good enough or that we are different. Is that you? I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to suffer in silence anymore.  I recognize that our past has influenced our present-  but it does not need to dictate our future! I provide a warm, non-judgmental approach to help you reframe your story. I believe it is important to feel both seen and heard in therapy. With the right tools, emphatic support, knowledge and determination, everyone can heal, maximize their potential and enjoy life to the fullest.
I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, life transitions, bereavement, etc.
Many times as People of Color we often feel alone with our situation or don’t feel understood. We may have thoughts that we are not good enough or that we are different. Is that you? I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to suffer in silence anymore.  I recognize that our past has influenced our present-  but it does not need to dictate our future! I provide a warm, non-judgmental approach to help you reframe your story. I believe it is important to feel both seen and heard in therapy. With the right tools, emphatic support, knowledge and determination, everyone can heal, maximize their potential and enjoy life to the fullest.
(914) 758-1419 View (914) 758-1419
Photo of Dr. Jeanne M. Miller, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Jeanne M. Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20024  (Online Only)
I have experience with clinical issues including, but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, sexual/physical assault, childhood abuse, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, military life, law enforcement, domestic violence, relationship issues, personality disorders, marriage issues, suicidal thoughts, internet pornography/compulsive sexual behaviors, physical illness and more.
Finding the right therapist can feel like an exhausting search. If you are depressed, anxious, troubled in your relationships, coping with grief, struggling with past or current trauma, feeling hopeless or angry, or just trying to understand yourself better, I'm here to help. I believe we all have the answers we need inside us, but sometimes it takes working with a neutral observer to find those answers. Together you and I will work toward increased understanding of and ways to cope with whatever problems you would like to discuss. Therapy isn't necessarily easy, but it can help.
I have experience with clinical issues including, but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, sexual/physical assault, childhood abuse, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, military life, law enforcement, domestic violence, relationship issues, personality disorders, marriage issues, suicidal thoughts, internet pornography/compulsive sexual behaviors, physical illness and more.
Finding the right therapist can feel like an exhausting search. If you are depressed, anxious, troubled in your relationships, coping with grief, struggling with past or current trauma, feeling hopeless or angry, or just trying to understand yourself better, I'm here to help. I believe we all have the answers we need inside us, but sometimes it takes working with a neutral observer to find those answers. Together you and I will work toward increased understanding of and ways to cope with whatever problems you would like to discuss. Therapy isn't necessarily easy, but it can help.
(703) 997-6777 View (703) 997-6777
Photo of Madeleine E. Bertin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Madeleine E. Bertin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have expertise working with Eating Disorders, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, and the often co-occurring issues of self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-worth, & interpersonal difficulties.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the central component to successful psychotherapy and I bring special attention to the ongoing process of relational safety. I also believe that self-harmful behaviors always have roots in past experiences of threat and it can be life-changing to discover these connections. I work to help individuals establish goals, explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, develop resources and skills, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater self-empowerment so they can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for themselves.
I have expertise working with Eating Disorders, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, and the often co-occurring issues of self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-worth, & interpersonal difficulties.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the central component to successful psychotherapy and I bring special attention to the ongoing process of relational safety. I also believe that self-harmful behaviors always have roots in past experiences of threat and it can be life-changing to discover these connections. I work to help individuals establish goals, explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, develop resources and skills, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater self-empowerment so they can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for themselves.
(206) 819-8042 View (206) 819-8042
Photo of Lynn Lynes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lynn Lynes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
(703) 348-9734 View (703) 348-9734
Photo of Michael Baly, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Michael Baly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Baly is a clinical psychologist who works with individuals and families experiencing a range of issues. He specializes in treating acute and complex trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, self-harm and suicide, addictive behaviors, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Dr. Baly received a B.A. from Harvard and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Virginia. He has trained at several nationally recognized institutions, including the Institute of Living, Johns Hopkins, and the Kennedy Krieger Institute. He is passionate about helping people cope with present day stressors and issues stemming from past trauma.
Dr. Baly is a clinical psychologist who works with individuals and families experiencing a range of issues. He specializes in treating acute and complex trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, self-harm and suicide, addictive behaviors, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Dr. Baly received a B.A. from Harvard and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Virginia. He has trained at several nationally recognized institutions, including the Institute of Living, Johns Hopkins, and the Kennedy Krieger Institute. He is passionate about helping people cope with present day stressors and issues stemming from past trauma.
(571) 554-2120 View (571) 554-2120
Photo of Andrea Miller, Resident in Counseling in Washington, DC
Andrea Miller
Resident in Counseling, LGPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
(571) 946-6525 View (571) 946-6525
Photo of John Perry, Resident in Counseling in Washington, DC
John Perry
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I am a Resident in Counseling based in Virginia, possessing a particular passion for addressing a diverse array of issues, including those related to the LGBTQIA+ community, relational conflicts, life transitions, depression, anxiety, multicultural concerns, identity exploration, suicidal ideation, trauma, legal system challenges, and personality disorders. In my therapeutic approach, I emphasize the importance of fostering a collaborative and secure space for clients to navigate their current struggles, confront challenges, and explore avenues for healthy community connections through an empathetic and trauma-informed lens.
I am a Resident in Counseling based in Virginia, possessing a particular passion for addressing a diverse array of issues, including those related to the LGBTQIA+ community, relational conflicts, life transitions, depression, anxiety, multicultural concerns, identity exploration, suicidal ideation, trauma, legal system challenges, and personality disorders. In my therapeutic approach, I emphasize the importance of fostering a collaborative and secure space for clients to navigate their current struggles, confront challenges, and explore avenues for healthy community connections through an empathetic and trauma-informed lens.
(571) 454-8723 View (571) 454-8723
Photo of Amber Marcelin-Flynn in Washington, DC
Amber Marcelin-Flynn
MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
The warmth of genuine connection transcends the traditional therapist-client dynamic. As an experienced Mental Health Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist based in the DMV area with nearly a decade of dedicated practice, I offer a comprehensive range of competencies to support individuals on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My expertise spans the following areas: Anxiety and Stress Management, Depression and Emotional Regulation, Self-Criticism and Inner Conflict Resolution, Suicidal Ideation and Crisis Intervention, Codependency and Boundary Setting, and Creativity and Authentic Connection.
The warmth of genuine connection transcends the traditional therapist-client dynamic. As an experienced Mental Health Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist based in the DMV area with nearly a decade of dedicated practice, I offer a comprehensive range of competencies to support individuals on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My expertise spans the following areas: Anxiety and Stress Management, Depression and Emotional Regulation, Self-Criticism and Inner Conflict Resolution, Suicidal Ideation and Crisis Intervention, Codependency and Boundary Setting, and Creativity and Authentic Connection.
(301) 690-8957 View (301) 690-8957
Photo of Dr. Lauren Colston, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Lauren Colston
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As the CEO and Founder of Coping Corners, LLC, I specialize in child and adolescent psychology, parent coaching, crisis prevention and response, suicidal ideation, self-injury, trauma, and psychological assessments.
I am Dr. Lauren, Clinical Psychologist licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. Having over 17 years of clinical experience in a variety of treatment settings allows my clients to access tailored comprehensive psychological support derived from a culturally diverse and trauma-informed lens. I have in-depth experience and training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as crisis response and prevention. My clinical abilities are available to individuals, families, groups, and organizations with the goal of strengthening the use of mental health practices.
As the CEO and Founder of Coping Corners, LLC, I specialize in child and adolescent psychology, parent coaching, crisis prevention and response, suicidal ideation, self-injury, trauma, and psychological assessments.
I am Dr. Lauren, Clinical Psychologist licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. Having over 17 years of clinical experience in a variety of treatment settings allows my clients to access tailored comprehensive psychological support derived from a culturally diverse and trauma-informed lens. I have in-depth experience and training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as crisis response and prevention. My clinical abilities are available to individuals, families, groups, and organizations with the goal of strengthening the use of mental health practices.
(301) 450-6482 View (301) 450-6482
Photo of Jennifer Spatzer, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jennifer Spatzer
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I have 10+ years of experience working with clients who are in the acute phase of psychosis or a mood episode as well as moderate and mild phases of mental health issues, major life stressors, challenges and transitions. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy and provide an environment of acceptance, warmth and respect that allows my clients to gain insight, self-efficacy, and empowerment while working toward an ultimate goal of well-being, growth and healing.
I have 10+ years of experience working with clients who are in the acute phase of psychosis or a mood episode as well as moderate and mild phases of mental health issues, major life stressors, challenges and transitions. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy and provide an environment of acceptance, warmth and respect that allows my clients to gain insight, self-efficacy, and empowerment while working toward an ultimate goal of well-being, growth and healing.
(202) 851-2776 View (202) 851-2776
Photo of Group Therapy For Therapists, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Group Therapy For Therapists
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Mondays OR Wednesdays 11:30a EST. Therapy group for therapists experiencing stress, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, compassion fatigue & burnout. The goal is to have a confidential space to be able to process & get support around being a mental health provider in the midst of our own mental health struggles & growth. As a member of PSYPACT, group is open to mental health providers from 42 states. States can be found here: www.drellenbronder.com. Therapists include: psychologists, therapists, counselors, social workers and psychiatrists.
Mondays OR Wednesdays 11:30a EST. Therapy group for therapists experiencing stress, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, compassion fatigue & burnout. The goal is to have a confidential space to be able to process & get support around being a mental health provider in the midst of our own mental health struggles & growth. As a member of PSYPACT, group is open to mental health providers from 42 states. States can be found here: www.drellenbronder.com. Therapists include: psychologists, therapists, counselors, social workers and psychiatrists.
(216) 299-3810 View (216) 299-3810
Photo of Yasir Ahmed, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Yasir Ahmed
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a licensed therapist with more than 8 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. My niche interest is in the area of couples and families work. I also work with teenagers, adults and clients who seek help with depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship concerns. I also have experience working with those in crisis situations and those looking for support in tough times. I am a male therapist of Asian Indian background and work with clients from various backgrounds.
Hello, I am a licensed therapist with more than 8 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. My niche interest is in the area of couples and families work. I also work with teenagers, adults and clients who seek help with depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship concerns. I also have experience working with those in crisis situations and those looking for support in tough times. I am a male therapist of Asian Indian background and work with clients from various backgrounds.
(202) 858-0856 View (202) 858-0856
Photo of Dr. Ellen C Bronder, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Ellen C Bronder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20066  (Online Only)
Offering help for depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, stress and burnout. Working with adults, college & grad students and professionals, including people in sensitive and high-profile roles for whom discretion & privacy are paramount. Here you will get a therapist that has a deep and unique understanding of suffering, a therapist that is skillful, knowledgeable, real, transparent and compassionate. A therapist that gets it and has expertise in diagnosis and treatment based on advanced knowledge of human development, psychotherapeutic treatment and advanced knowledge of research in psychology.
Offering help for depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, stress and burnout. Working with adults, college & grad students and professionals, including people in sensitive and high-profile roles for whom discretion & privacy are paramount. Here you will get a therapist that has a deep and unique understanding of suffering, a therapist that is skillful, knowledgeable, real, transparent and compassionate. A therapist that gets it and has expertise in diagnosis and treatment based on advanced knowledge of human development, psychotherapeutic treatment and advanced knowledge of research in psychology.
(216) 299-3810 View (216) 299-3810
Photo of Jordan L. Costen-Sumpter, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Washington, DC
Jordan L. Costen-Sumpter
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, QMHP-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Well, hello. I am glad you decided to meet. Let me pour you some tea or coffee and let’s discuss what is on your mind. Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to seek out help. Especially for those who either thought they didn’t need it or were convinced that their issues are manageable. That often occurs with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Regardless, you took the first step, as difficult as it may have been. As a next step I want to work with you and build trust. Once that has been established and you feel comfortable, we can address the items that cause you concern.
Well, hello. I am glad you decided to meet. Let me pour you some tea or coffee and let’s discuss what is on your mind. Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to seek out help. Especially for those who either thought they didn’t need it or were convinced that their issues are manageable. That often occurs with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Regardless, you took the first step, as difficult as it may have been. As a next step I want to work with you and build trust. Once that has been established and you feel comfortable, we can address the items that cause you concern.
(571) 901-1072 View (571) 901-1072

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.