Suicidal Ideation Therapists in West Point, GA

Photo of Scott Smith, Psychologist in West Point, GA
Scott Smith
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, CAADC, ACS
Verified Verified
West Point, GA 31833
My practice is built on a foundation of humanistic psychology and framed by healthcare for the whole person (physical, emotional, and social health). I believe that healing happens in safe places and within trusted relationships, and I enjoy collaborating with people to overcome obstacles on the path to a healthier, more fulfilling life. I offer psychotherapy/counseling as well as psychological testing and evaluation services, including pre-surgical evaluations.
My practice is built on a foundation of humanistic psychology and framed by healthcare for the whole person (physical, emotional, and social health). I believe that healing happens in safe places and within trusted relationships, and I enjoy collaborating with people to overcome obstacles on the path to a healthier, more fulfilling life. I offer psychotherapy/counseling as well as psychological testing and evaluation services, including pre-surgical evaluations.
(706) 230-6460 View (706) 230-6460

Online Therapists

Photo of Bryon McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Point, GA
Bryon McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, and have experience treating ADHD, mood disorders, relationship issues, identity and gender issues, adjustment disorders, sexual assault, trauma, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed, down and depressed, or overcome with worry and fear? There is hope, and I am here to help. You've taken a big step toward your mental health and ideal future by looking for a therapist, and I'd like to help you identify and achieve your goals. I have many years of experience in college counseling and private practice work. I am passionate about helping adults and adolescents overcome fear and anxiety, improve their mood, develop their identities, and navigate stress and transitions effectively and confidently.
I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, and have experience treating ADHD, mood disorders, relationship issues, identity and gender issues, adjustment disorders, sexual assault, trauma, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed, down and depressed, or overcome with worry and fear? There is hope, and I am here to help. You've taken a big step toward your mental health and ideal future by looking for a therapist, and I'd like to help you identify and achieve your goals. I have many years of experience in college counseling and private practice work. I am passionate about helping adults and adolescents overcome fear and anxiety, improve their mood, develop their identities, and navigate stress and transitions effectively and confidently.
(404) 738-9178 View (404) 738-9178
Photo of Pamala Love, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Point, GA
Pamala Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30315
I specialize in Military related PTSD, mood disorders, Suicide and Homicide Treatment/ Prevention, Relational Conflict, Postpartum Depression, and Sexual/Intimate Partner Trauma for children and adults.
I can often participate in behavioral health symposiums throughout the country and advocate for supporting marriage, strengthening single-parent homes, and military and veteran families, educating young parents, and promoting collectivism for the community’s wellbeing.
I specialize in Military related PTSD, mood disorders, Suicide and Homicide Treatment/ Prevention, Relational Conflict, Postpartum Depression, and Sexual/Intimate Partner Trauma for children and adults.
I can often participate in behavioral health symposiums throughout the country and advocate for supporting marriage, strengthening single-parent homes, and military and veteran families, educating young parents, and promoting collectivism for the community’s wellbeing.
(678) 203-9342 View (678) 203-9342
Photo of Olive Aneno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Point, GA
Olive Aneno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
I am trained in the specific evidence-based treatment modalities for anyone who is contemplating suicide, including Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS), Cognitive Therapy for Suicidal Patients (CT-SP), Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Life is full of challenges, some of which we are unable to resolve on our own. Come and start the journey to a fulfilling life. I provide many treatment options to help you address concerns around depression, anxiety, suicidal thinking or even trying to adjust to new roles or situations in your life. Reach out and lets start your whole health process.
I am trained in the specific evidence-based treatment modalities for anyone who is contemplating suicide, including Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS), Cognitive Therapy for Suicidal Patients (CT-SP), Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Life is full of challenges, some of which we are unable to resolve on our own. Come and start the journey to a fulfilling life. I provide many treatment options to help you address concerns around depression, anxiety, suicidal thinking or even trying to adjust to new roles or situations in your life. Reach out and lets start your whole health process.
(404) 999-0313 View (404) 999-0313
Photo of Centered Living Cnslng & Coaching Svcs LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Point, GA
Centered Living Cnslng & Coaching Svcs LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
I have over 19 years of experience in the behavioral health field working with people from various backgrounds, with 13 of those years being a counselor. I particularly like to work with individuals, couples and families. I believe that, ultimately, the client is the agent of change and I am simply the guide on your journey to wholeness. Together we will identify your goals and, through our work together, I will help you reach them. I work with a myriad of issues, from marital relationship and family conflict, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trauma and more!
I have over 19 years of experience in the behavioral health field working with people from various backgrounds, with 13 of those years being a counselor. I particularly like to work with individuals, couples and families. I believe that, ultimately, the client is the agent of change and I am simply the guide on your journey to wholeness. Together we will identify your goals and, through our work together, I will help you reach them. I work with a myriad of issues, from marital relationship and family conflict, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trauma and more!
(404) 476-5186 View (404) 476-5186
Photo of Melanie Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Point, GA
Melanie Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30338
I specialize in treating adolescents (ages 12 and up) and adults with suicidal thoughts, PTSD and complex trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm behaviors, chronic emotion dysregulation, and borderline personality disorder.
I believe that all humans share a basic desire to be well and happy, and to avoid pain and suffering. Sometimes, we just don’t know how to do that. I also believe that connection is key for us as humans. Without it, we struggle to survive much less thrive. Having only one person in our lives we feel connected to and accepted by can open the doorway for healing. Whether you've experienced trauma, loss, or just a general sense of suffering or emptiness, I will use a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to build that connection and create a space where you can work through the pain and toward a life worth living.
I specialize in treating adolescents (ages 12 and up) and adults with suicidal thoughts, PTSD and complex trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm behaviors, chronic emotion dysregulation, and borderline personality disorder.
I believe that all humans share a basic desire to be well and happy, and to avoid pain and suffering. Sometimes, we just don’t know how to do that. I also believe that connection is key for us as humans. Without it, we struggle to survive much less thrive. Having only one person in our lives we feel connected to and accepted by can open the doorway for healing. Whether you've experienced trauma, loss, or just a general sense of suffering or emptiness, I will use a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to build that connection and create a space where you can work through the pain and toward a life worth living.
(404) 882-3751 View (404) 882-3751
Photo of Miranda Barzey, Counselor in West Point, GA
Miranda Barzey
Counselor, LAPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30032
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
(404) 738-6484 View (404) 738-6484
Photo of Family Wellness Center LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Point, GA
Family Wellness Center LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, PhD, MD, NP
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30097
Our services are tailored to Children, Adolescents & Adults · Individuals with Anger Management Problems · Suicidal Thoughts or Suicidal Attempts · Homeless Adults and Families · Depression · Bipolar Disorder · Schizophrenia · Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) · Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder ( ADHD) · Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) · Post Partum Depressed Individual · Teen Moms with Depression Concerns · Newly Divorced ·.
Family Wellness Center is committed to adding value to our Clients' quality of life. Our mental health services are designed to provide support to people with challenges; empowering them to make more informed decisions in their day to day activities. Our dedication to our Clients as well as our spirit of excellence, teamwork and family-ties enables us to know that each client, each family can build a better and brighter life; thereby building a stronger community.
Our services are tailored to Children, Adolescents & Adults · Individuals with Anger Management Problems · Suicidal Thoughts or Suicidal Attempts · Homeless Adults and Families · Depression · Bipolar Disorder · Schizophrenia · Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) · Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder ( ADHD) · Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) · Post Partum Depressed Individual · Teen Moms with Depression Concerns · Newly Divorced ·.
Family Wellness Center is committed to adding value to our Clients' quality of life. Our mental health services are designed to provide support to people with challenges; empowering them to make more informed decisions in their day to day activities. Our dedication to our Clients as well as our spirit of excellence, teamwork and family-ties enables us to know that each client, each family can build a better and brighter life; thereby building a stronger community.
(678) 946-2032 View (678) 946-2032
Photo of Door of Hope Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Point, GA
Door of Hope Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Fort Valley, GA 31030
Community Mental Health Education and suicide prevention training is also offered.
Door of Hope Counseling Center is a private non-profit that offers hope and healing to those who are hurting as a result of trauma and grief, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relational issues, parenting issues, or more severe mental health issues. A sliding fee scale is available for those without insurance. Individual, family, group and couples counseling is offered. Play therapy is available for children. Door of Hope serves clients between the ages of 5 to senior adults. I have 29 years experience in community mental health and residential mental health. As a registered Supervisor, I provide supervision for licensure.
Community Mental Health Education and suicide prevention training is also offered.
Door of Hope Counseling Center is a private non-profit that offers hope and healing to those who are hurting as a result of trauma and grief, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relational issues, parenting issues, or more severe mental health issues. A sliding fee scale is available for those without insurance. Individual, family, group and couples counseling is offered. Play therapy is available for children. Door of Hope serves clients between the ages of 5 to senior adults. I have 29 years experience in community mental health and residential mental health. As a registered Supervisor, I provide supervision for licensure.
(478) 845-7343 View (478) 845-7343
Photo of Kieyana Thomas, Counselor in West Point, GA
Kieyana Thomas
Counselor, MS, LAPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30310  (Online Only)
I am also certified in trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and utilizing skills to assess and manage suicide risk individuals.
Understanding that many life obstacles occur, I can assist you in the journey of self realization and hope! Transitions can be stressful and emotional, and no two people share the same experiences, making it difficult to align with a lifestyle that works for you while you heal. Allow me to guide you through your transition with empathetic understanding, providing tools and support needed for you to be successful. Our trials and hardships are what shape us and the story of our lives. Despite the challenges that life brings we have the ability to soar above our greatest hurdles.
I am also certified in trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and utilizing skills to assess and manage suicide risk individuals.
Understanding that many life obstacles occur, I can assist you in the journey of self realization and hope! Transitions can be stressful and emotional, and no two people share the same experiences, making it difficult to align with a lifestyle that works for you while you heal. Allow me to guide you through your transition with empathetic understanding, providing tools and support needed for you to be successful. Our trials and hardships are what shape us and the story of our lives. Despite the challenges that life brings we have the ability to soar above our greatest hurdles.
(470) 691-8175 View (470) 691-8175
Photo of Kayla Whittle, Pastoral Counselor in West Point, GA
Kayla Whittle
Pastoral Counselor, MEd, BCCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newnan, GA 30263
Kayla has a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling is currently in a Doctoral Program at Liberty University for Community Care and Counseling. Kayla’s specializations include: Children, Adolescents, Adults, Anxiety, Depression, Career Transition, Trauma Healing, Stress Management, Suicidal Ideation, Marriage and Family Systems. Kayla is passionate about combining proven mental health practices and the wisdom of the Bible.
Kayla has a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling is currently in a Doctoral Program at Liberty University for Community Care and Counseling. Kayla’s specializations include: Children, Adolescents, Adults, Anxiety, Depression, Career Transition, Trauma Healing, Stress Management, Suicidal Ideation, Marriage and Family Systems. Kayla is passionate about combining proven mental health practices and the wisdom of the Bible.
(470) 431-5371 View (470) 431-5371
Photo of Lauren Dunn, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Point, GA
Lauren Dunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
I also see adolescents/preteens experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, peer conflicts, behavior problems, anxiety, self-harming, and low self-esteem.
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” – Albert Einstein Do you desire to want to see improvement in your life? Have you been thinking about talking to someone? I have worked in the helping field for almost 15 years in a variety of capacities and have had the privilege of walking with people at some of the most difficult places in their lives. I am a Fort Worth native and received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at TCU. I am passionate about helping you gain awareness, insight, and tools so you can see and make changes you desire in order to enjoy life.
I also see adolescents/preteens experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, peer conflicts, behavior problems, anxiety, self-harming, and low self-esteem.
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” – Albert Einstein Do you desire to want to see improvement in your life? Have you been thinking about talking to someone? I have worked in the helping field for almost 15 years in a variety of capacities and have had the privilege of walking with people at some of the most difficult places in their lives. I am a Fort Worth native and received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at TCU. I am passionate about helping you gain awareness, insight, and tools so you can see and make changes you desire in order to enjoy life.
(817) 752-7034 View (817) 752-7034
Photo of Inside and Out Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Point, GA
Inside and Out Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powder Springs, GA 30127
My ideal client could be anyone within any population. I have gained a number of skills with adolescents and adults that range from trauma, crisis, substance abuse and overall mental health issues that affects individuals and their families. I focus on motivating families to work together in order to strengthen their family unit. I have received training on Ethics, Responding to the Military Child with Exceptional Needs, Suicide Prevention and others. I prefer to take a Solution-Focused Approach when providing therapy.
My ideal client could be anyone within any population. I have gained a number of skills with adolescents and adults that range from trauma, crisis, substance abuse and overall mental health issues that affects individuals and their families. I focus on motivating families to work together in order to strengthen their family unit. I have received training on Ethics, Responding to the Military Child with Exceptional Needs, Suicide Prevention and others. I prefer to take a Solution-Focused Approach when providing therapy.
(334) 394-3769 View (334) 394-3769
Photo of Leah Goodson, Counselor in West Point, GA
Leah Goodson
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I work in treating eating disorders, depression, suicidal ideation/self-harm, anxiety, emotional regulation, OCD, behavioral problems, and personal growth.
The therapeutic process can be challenging therefore I strive to offer my clients a nonjudgemental safe space to be comfortable in the uncomfortable feelings of change. It is important that we build an authentic therapeutic relationship to be effective. We all move at our own pace and struggle with our own individualized battles.
I work in treating eating disorders, depression, suicidal ideation/self-harm, anxiety, emotional regulation, OCD, behavioral problems, and personal growth.
The therapeutic process can be challenging therefore I strive to offer my clients a nonjudgemental safe space to be comfortable in the uncomfortable feelings of change. It is important that we build an authentic therapeutic relationship to be effective. We all move at our own pace and struggle with our own individualized battles.
(678) 729-9951 View (678) 729-9951
Photo of Rand Basma, Pre-Licensed Professional in West Point, GA
Rand Basma
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
I work with individuals ages 14+ experiencing a myriad of clinical concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and grief. Additionally, I have a passion for working with individuals overcoming complex trauma as well as sexual abuse. Some of my other clinical experiences include working with substance use, HIV/AIDS, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation. Many of my clients are seeking out culturally sensitive care where their identities are given the space to be seen and heard. During our time together we will work on building awareness of thought patterns, beliefs, and narratives that no longer serve you.
I work with individuals ages 14+ experiencing a myriad of clinical concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and grief. Additionally, I have a passion for working with individuals overcoming complex trauma as well as sexual abuse. Some of my other clinical experiences include working with substance use, HIV/AIDS, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation. Many of my clients are seeking out culturally sensitive care where their identities are given the space to be seen and heard. During our time together we will work on building awareness of thought patterns, beliefs, and narratives that no longer serve you.
(404) 777-4366 View (404) 777-4366
Photo of Jeneifer Threadcraft, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Point, GA
Jeneifer Threadcraft
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conyers, GA 30012
Threadcraft specializes in trauma and suicide prevention.
I come to help those that are faced with everyday issues and traumatic events that causes them to become depression. Depression is real and being able to overcome depression is importance to one's everyday living. Knowing that life can be fantastic in so many ways helps everyone to live a happier and healthier life.
Threadcraft specializes in trauma and suicide prevention.
I come to help those that are faced with everyday issues and traumatic events that causes them to become depression. Depression is real and being able to overcome depression is importance to one's everyday living. Knowing that life can be fantastic in so many ways helps everyone to live a happier and healthier life.
(404) 491-8497 View (404) 491-8497
Photo of New-Life Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Point, GA
New-Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30115
Due to recent COVID-19 events, I am offering online services. We take care of our body, we need to take care of our mind too. Sometimes in life we need to be able to reach out to someone to walk through our issues and develop a plan. I care and know you can be all you want to be. I provide professional help in the following areas: Women's issues, psychological issues, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, and substance abuse. I am here to help and am taking new patients.
Due to recent COVID-19 events, I am offering online services. We take care of our body, we need to take care of our mind too. Sometimes in life we need to be able to reach out to someone to walk through our issues and develop a plan. I care and know you can be all you want to be. I provide professional help in the following areas: Women's issues, psychological issues, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, and substance abuse. I am here to help and am taking new patients.
(706) 350-6116 View (706) 350-6116
Photo of Tamekia Meko Howard, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Point, GA
Tamekia Meko Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ICAADC, MAC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
With over 20 years of experience, I have served in abuse, behavioral, correctional, domestic violence, grief and loss, suicide loss, and trauma settings.
Thank you for taking time to review my profile. I am licensed to address severe, persistent and general mental health needs in Georgia. I hold international, national and dual local board approved advanced drug and alcohol certifications. I am a Qualified DOT-SAP. As the primary therapist and owner of Mind Elevation Keys for Overcomers, my services focus on aiding individuals, couples, and families in overcoming the effects of abuse, chemical addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and trauma. I offer tele-mental health services (video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and telephone). Eves/Weekends are available
With over 20 years of experience, I have served in abuse, behavioral, correctional, domestic violence, grief and loss, suicide loss, and trauma settings.
Thank you for taking time to review my profile. I am licensed to address severe, persistent and general mental health needs in Georgia. I hold international, national and dual local board approved advanced drug and alcohol certifications. I am a Qualified DOT-SAP. As the primary therapist and owner of Mind Elevation Keys for Overcomers, my services focus on aiding individuals, couples, and families in overcoming the effects of abuse, chemical addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and trauma. I offer tele-mental health services (video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and telephone). Eves/Weekends are available
(404) 800-3901 View (404) 800-3901
Photo of Mohammad Ali Zafar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Point, GA
Mohammad Ali Zafar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30313  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical experience has come from working at a suicide prevention crisis center, psychiatric hospital, high school, addiction & forensic treatment center, children’s hospital, and in college counseling.
Perhaps you’ve tried a few therapists and weren't able to connect. Maybe you never saw yourself represented, or that therapy felt too manualized. You’ve pushed off therapy for a while now, not because you're too prideful to get the support you need, but because the help you are looking for hasn’t centered your beliefs, identity(ies) and understanding of well-being. You want support that centers all of who you are, and you are looking for authentic, experienced care that can help you gain clarity, confidence, and contentment.
My clinical experience has come from working at a suicide prevention crisis center, psychiatric hospital, high school, addiction & forensic treatment center, children’s hospital, and in college counseling.
Perhaps you’ve tried a few therapists and weren't able to connect. Maybe you never saw yourself represented, or that therapy felt too manualized. You’ve pushed off therapy for a while now, not because you're too prideful to get the support you need, but because the help you are looking for hasn’t centered your beliefs, identity(ies) and understanding of well-being. You want support that centers all of who you are, and you are looking for authentic, experienced care that can help you gain clarity, confidence, and contentment.
(832) 402-8065 View (832) 402-8065
Photo of Nicole Hope Reynolds, LPC Intern in West Point, GA
Nicole Hope Reynolds
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281  (Online Only)
I offer help working with adults, couples or active duty/retired military and veterans experiencing emotional dysregulation such as suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, loss of self-confidence, and more resulting from simple or complex trauma.
My goal is to actively listen and support you in a safe, non-judgmental environment as you gain confidence in navigating the journey of life. I use evidence based treatments such as DBT and CBT to help you identify and address painful emotions that have become habitual and alter thinking and behavior patterns that are unhealthy. We will work together to replace these patterns and emotions with more accurate and functional ones by developing more positive perspectives and new tools in coping & communication skills.
I offer help working with adults, couples or active duty/retired military and veterans experiencing emotional dysregulation such as suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, loss of self-confidence, and more resulting from simple or complex trauma.
My goal is to actively listen and support you in a safe, non-judgmental environment as you gain confidence in navigating the journey of life. I use evidence based treatments such as DBT and CBT to help you identify and address painful emotions that have become habitual and alter thinking and behavior patterns that are unhealthy. We will work together to replace these patterns and emotions with more accurate and functional ones by developing more positive perspectives and new tools in coping & communication skills.
(770) 746-7192 View (770) 746-7192

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Suicidal Ideation Therapists

How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?

Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.

Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?

Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.

Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?

The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?

As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.