Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Krina Gandhi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Krina Gandhi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience treating adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, suicidal ideations, self harm, and troubles with adjustments & life transitions.
It is inevitable that life is challenging and often times, we feel stuck and need reminders that we are not alone. As a psychotherapist, I understand that each client has a unique story of their own and that each client deserves tailored and individualized care. We will start by establishing what goals you would like to achieve in therapy and will then create a treatment plan collaboratively. I tend to pull from your strengths and values, and will work with you to unpack unhelpful thinking patterns and maladaptive behaviors and will explore alternative coping skills that will be more sustainable for you in the long run.
I have many years of experience treating adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, suicidal ideations, self harm, and troubles with adjustments & life transitions.
It is inevitable that life is challenging and often times, we feel stuck and need reminders that we are not alone. As a psychotherapist, I understand that each client has a unique story of their own and that each client deserves tailored and individualized care. We will start by establishing what goals you would like to achieve in therapy and will then create a treatment plan collaboratively. I tend to pull from your strengths and values, and will work with you to unpack unhelpful thinking patterns and maladaptive behaviors and will explore alternative coping skills that will be more sustainable for you in the long run.
(312) 313-9959 View (312) 313-9959
Photo of Carolyn Raitt, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Carolyn Raitt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
(312) 262-3704 View (312) 262-3704
Photo of Rachel Kardon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Rachel Kardon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship distress, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, stress management, life transitions, identity exploration, grief, trauma, and loss.
It takes great courage to come to therapy, and the most important part of being a clinician is the therapeutic relationship I develop with my clients. I provide a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship distress, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, stress management, life transitions, identity exploration, grief, trauma, and loss.
It takes great courage to come to therapy, and the most important part of being a clinician is the therapeutic relationship I develop with my clients. I provide a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(312) 467-7582 View (312) 467-7582
Photo of Connor McInerney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Connor McInerney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Do you struggle with your inner critic? Have you felt lonely or rejected? Maybe you've tried to avoid anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories, seeking a way out of a rollercoaster of emotions. Have you experienced difficulty with life transitions; career/school stress; relationship issues including polyamory and CNM; bigotry; grief; addiction; sex/drug linked behavior; sexual assault/abuse; self-harm, or suicidal thoughts? Are you somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and feel like no one in your life understands you? If you answered yes to any of these issues, when was the last time you had a space to talk that was just for you?
Do you struggle with your inner critic? Have you felt lonely or rejected? Maybe you've tried to avoid anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories, seeking a way out of a rollercoaster of emotions. Have you experienced difficulty with life transitions; career/school stress; relationship issues including polyamory and CNM; bigotry; grief; addiction; sex/drug linked behavior; sexual assault/abuse; self-harm, or suicidal thoughts? Are you somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and feel like no one in your life understands you? If you answered yes to any of these issues, when was the last time you had a space to talk that was just for you?
(281) 688-4954 View (281) 688-4954
Photo of Sarah Landolfi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sarah Landolfi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA2S+ and Neurodivergent clients facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, sleep disturbances, executive functioning issues, substance use, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I work best with clients who are curious about themselves and who are ready to examine what could be better in their lives and relationships. You and I will collaborate to understand your current pain in terms of your past struggles and the protective coping strategies you've utilized to make it this far. We will build compassion for parts of you that may be critical, fearful, ashamed or hopeless, and we will study the relationships you have with these parts, with other people, and with the world while building skills to regulate your nervous system, inhabit your body more fully, and experience joy, connection and pleasure.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA2S+ and Neurodivergent clients facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, sleep disturbances, executive functioning issues, substance use, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I work best with clients who are curious about themselves and who are ready to examine what could be better in their lives and relationships. You and I will collaborate to understand your current pain in terms of your past struggles and the protective coping strategies you've utilized to make it this far. We will build compassion for parts of you that may be critical, fearful, ashamed or hopeless, and we will study the relationships you have with these parts, with other people, and with the world while building skills to regulate your nervous system, inhabit your body more fully, and experience joy, connection and pleasure.
(224) 520-9323 View (224) 520-9323
Photo of Brooke Henderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Brooke Henderson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, family issues, behavioral issues, social issues, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
If you feel like you're at rock bottom, like your anxiety is taking over your life, or like your life can't possibly get any crazier, you have come to the right place. I am here to listen, empower, and guide you through your healing process, whatever that may look like. My aim is to create a non-judgmental space for you to share what you are going through. I tailor to my clients' needs individually and take a person-centered approach. Whether you are seeking support for a specific issue or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, I am here to help!
My specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, family issues, behavioral issues, social issues, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
If you feel like you're at rock bottom, like your anxiety is taking over your life, or like your life can't possibly get any crazier, you have come to the right place. I am here to listen, empower, and guide you through your healing process, whatever that may look like. My aim is to create a non-judgmental space for you to share what you are going through. I tailor to my clients' needs individually and take a person-centered approach. Whether you are seeking support for a specific issue or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, I am here to help!
(847) 790-4959 View (847) 790-4959
Photo of Danielle Renyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Danielle Renyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I have experience providing support to individuals to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through life transitions or relationship issues, process abuse and neglect, and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming.
I take an empathetic and client centered approach to therapy, recognizing that it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to take the steps towards making positive changes in your life. I believe that all individuals have the tools to be successful in life and empower clients to use their strengths to make change. I value the therapeutic relationship and take a collaborative approach to working with children and adolescents.
I have experience providing support to individuals to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through life transitions or relationship issues, process abuse and neglect, and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming.
I take an empathetic and client centered approach to therapy, recognizing that it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to take the steps towards making positive changes in your life. I believe that all individuals have the tools to be successful in life and empower clients to use their strengths to make change. I value the therapeutic relationship and take a collaborative approach to working with children and adolescents.
(773) 694-8071 View (773) 694-8071
Photo of Alex Chiodo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Alex Chiodo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Existential dread? Lacking motivation? Struggling to find purpose? ADHD? Autism? C-PTSD? Self harm? Suicidal ideations? Complicated childhood? People pleaser? Avoidant of conflict? Co-dependency? Do you have someone with Narcissistic traits in your life? Low self esteem or self worth? History of hospitalizations? If some of these resonate with you, then we may be a fit.
Existential dread? Lacking motivation? Struggling to find purpose? ADHD? Autism? C-PTSD? Self harm? Suicidal ideations? Complicated childhood? People pleaser? Avoidant of conflict? Co-dependency? Do you have someone with Narcissistic traits in your life? Low self esteem or self worth? History of hospitalizations? If some of these resonate with you, then we may be a fit.
(872) 814-7250 View (872) 814-7250
Photo of Samantha Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Samantha Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Many of my clients are working through identity related concerns, low self esteem, religious deconstruction, or suicidal ideation.
I became a therapist because I believe that change is always possible, and that humans have an inherent ability to heal and transform when they feel safe, heard, and connected. I understand that sometimes patterns of thinking, difficult emotions, or past circumstances feel like they pull us away from living life fully. In session, I will work with you to identify your strengths, increase self-compassion, create safety in your body, and expand your capacity to respond in the face of life’s difficult moments. I'm also a big believer in the power of humor, and encourage you to bring your full selves into our work together.
Many of my clients are working through identity related concerns, low self esteem, religious deconstruction, or suicidal ideation.
I became a therapist because I believe that change is always possible, and that humans have an inherent ability to heal and transform when they feel safe, heard, and connected. I understand that sometimes patterns of thinking, difficult emotions, or past circumstances feel like they pull us away from living life fully. In session, I will work with you to identify your strengths, increase self-compassion, create safety in your body, and expand your capacity to respond in the face of life’s difficult moments. I'm also a big believer in the power of humor, and encourage you to bring your full selves into our work together.
(872) 278-5088 x2 View (872) 278-5088 x2
Photo of Manya Treece, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Manya Treece
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
I have worked with many clients, including those who struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, sexual and physical abuse, workplace issues, LGBTQ issues and issues surrounding chronic illness.
My name is Manya, and I am trained in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic psychotherapy. My approach is to form a relationship with each person I see, taking special care to note any patterns in a person's history or present that may be holding them back or causing unnecessary pain or conflict. I take great care to notice how the past is informing the present and to provide the insight needed to develop and maintain healthy relationships, behaviors and feelings.
I have worked with many clients, including those who struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, sexual and physical abuse, workplace issues, LGBTQ issues and issues surrounding chronic illness.
My name is Manya, and I am trained in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic psychotherapy. My approach is to form a relationship with each person I see, taking special care to note any patterns in a person's history or present that may be holding them back or causing unnecessary pain or conflict. I take great care to notice how the past is informing the present and to provide the insight needed to develop and maintain healthy relationships, behaviors and feelings.
(615) 206-4132 View (615) 206-4132
Photo of Jessica A Sweet, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jessica A Sweet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Currently have immediate day time appointments. Waitlist for evening. If you have a child or adolescent that feels depressed, anxious, worried, disconnected from relationships, or struggling with a certain issue, I can help. I also have experience working with self-harming, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or bullying. I also work with family dynamics like parenting struggles, issues with divorce, couple counseling, parent/child relationships. If you are an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problem, work conflict or other issues, I can help create solutions for these problems.
Currently have immediate day time appointments. Waitlist for evening. If you have a child or adolescent that feels depressed, anxious, worried, disconnected from relationships, or struggling with a certain issue, I can help. I also have experience working with self-harming, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or bullying. I also work with family dynamics like parenting struggles, issues with divorce, couple counseling, parent/child relationships. If you are an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problem, work conflict or other issues, I can help create solutions for these problems.
(847) 380-3222 View (847) 380-3222
Photo of Faith Perrin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Faith Perrin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Some presenting concerns I commonly work with are anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship issues, complex trauma, sexual assault recovery, physical &/or emotional abuse recovery, low self-esteem, issues with a sense of belonging, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Do you often find yourself feeling stuck within yourself, relationships, or within your environment? My ideal client is ready for change. They are open to creative ideas and new ways of thinking about themselves and the world. I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past and present experiences prevent you from living the life you are meant to be living. I approach these struggles through a holistic and trauma informed approach, which incorporates body-based, anti-oppression, and harm reduction practices.
Some presenting concerns I commonly work with are anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship issues, complex trauma, sexual assault recovery, physical &/or emotional abuse recovery, low self-esteem, issues with a sense of belonging, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Do you often find yourself feeling stuck within yourself, relationships, or within your environment? My ideal client is ready for change. They are open to creative ideas and new ways of thinking about themselves and the world. I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past and present experiences prevent you from living the life you are meant to be living. I approach these struggles through a holistic and trauma informed approach, which incorporates body-based, anti-oppression, and harm reduction practices.
(312) 564-4544 View (312) 564-4544
Photo of Xinzhu Yu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Xinzhu Yu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
(312) 257-3851 View (312) 257-3851
Photo of Carlson Counseling Connection, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Carlson Counseling Connection
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
We have immediate in-person and virtual openings! Our clients mainly struggle with depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, grief, OCD, autism, eating disorders, and ADHD. They want and need to feel and function better and we work with them to achieve their goals. We see clients of all ages, developmental stages, identities, and backgrounds and tailor our treatment modalities to fit our client's needs. All of our clients are matched with a clinician who will best fit you needs and personality. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones reach your mental health goals and live your best life. Come see how much better you can feel!
We have immediate in-person and virtual openings! Our clients mainly struggle with depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, grief, OCD, autism, eating disorders, and ADHD. They want and need to feel and function better and we work with them to achieve their goals. We see clients of all ages, developmental stages, identities, and backgrounds and tailor our treatment modalities to fit our client's needs. All of our clients are matched with a clinician who will best fit you needs and personality. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones reach your mental health goals and live your best life. Come see how much better you can feel!
(630) 360-8995 View (630) 360-8995
Photo of Brittney Lanosga, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Brittney Lanosga
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
As a strength-based therapist, I specialize in human sexuality, grief / trauma, and depression/suicide.
If you identify as LGBTQIA+, femme, and/ or a person of color you may be facing obstacles or concerns in your life that are heavy on your mind. The weight of your worries may be leaving you feeling sad, frustrated, afraid or even angry. It may feel bigger than what you have time for right now, causing you to hold back when you want to say something. It may be more and more difficult to disclose any of these feelings to anyone without falling apart. It’s okay to feel sadness, frustration or anger and it is okay to take time to talk about it. You can learn to allow room for all of your feelings.
As a strength-based therapist, I specialize in human sexuality, grief / trauma, and depression/suicide.
If you identify as LGBTQIA+, femme, and/ or a person of color you may be facing obstacles or concerns in your life that are heavy on your mind. The weight of your worries may be leaving you feeling sad, frustrated, afraid or even angry. It may feel bigger than what you have time for right now, causing you to hold back when you want to say something. It may be more and more difficult to disclose any of these feelings to anyone without falling apart. It’s okay to feel sadness, frustration or anger and it is okay to take time to talk about it. You can learn to allow room for all of your feelings.
(312) 262-3868 View (312) 262-3868
Photo of Shuwanda Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Shuwanda Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
Dura LLC welcomes its newest addition, Ms. Shuwanda Hudson! She received her MA in Psychology from National Louis University followed by another MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Park University in Chicago. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She is passionate about helping and serving people with a history of abuse, and who have been traumatized and marginalized, as well as those experiencing suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, drug usage, and grief/loss. She welcomes the incorporation of spirituality.
Dura LLC welcomes its newest addition, Ms. Shuwanda Hudson! She received her MA in Psychology from National Louis University followed by another MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Park University in Chicago. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She is passionate about helping and serving people with a history of abuse, and who have been traumatized and marginalized, as well as those experiencing suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, drug usage, and grief/loss. She welcomes the incorporation of spirituality.
(312) 313-7509 View (312) 313-7509
Photo of Julie Josler, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Julie Josler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
(773) 389-2703 View (773) 389-2703
Photo of Garth LaHue, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Garth LaHue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I specialize in suicidal ideation, mood disorders, life transitions, and affair work.
Through the adversity of life, our relationships are what keep us going. Whether it is a partner, parent, sibling, or child, they are the other wing that keeps us afloat. Carving an hour out for ourselves is difficult, but like all things worth doing, the rewards outweigh the challenges.
I specialize in suicidal ideation, mood disorders, life transitions, and affair work.
Through the adversity of life, our relationships are what keep us going. Whether it is a partner, parent, sibling, or child, they are the other wing that keeps us afloat. Carving an hour out for ourselves is difficult, but like all things worth doing, the rewards outweigh the challenges.
(872) 250-5235 x5 View (872) 250-5235 x5
Photo of Amelia Harper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amelia Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637
Waitlist for new clients
I also have experience working with teens and young adults who are having suicidal ideations and self harming behaviors, as well as, substance use issues.
I understand that life has ups and downs which looks different to everyone and pain is something we all experience. I approach therapy with a strengths based approach and believe that even when people are struggling that have many strength that helped get them where they are today. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and my role is to support you non-judgmentally while helping you work towards the goals you choose. I am currently offering telehealth session and limited in-person sessions.
I also have experience working with teens and young adults who are having suicidal ideations and self harming behaviors, as well as, substance use issues.
I understand that life has ups and downs which looks different to everyone and pain is something we all experience. I approach therapy with a strengths based approach and believe that even when people are struggling that have many strength that helped get them where they are today. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and my role is to support you non-judgmentally while helping you work towards the goals you choose. I am currently offering telehealth session and limited in-person sessions.
(872) 215-9788 x231 View (872) 215-9788 x231
Photo of Max N Beshers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Max N Beshers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
In my 10 years of practice as a psychotherapist, I have worked with people facing many struggles, including surviving past trauma and abuse, feeling suicidal, and severe/chronic mental illness. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I have worked with many people who identify as LGBTQ, and have supported people through coming out, gender transition, and accessing gender-affirming health care. As a white therapist, when working with BIPOC clients, I use the frameworks of anti-racism and cultural humility, and strive to make space for exploring the impacts of racism and racial differences.
In my 10 years of practice as a psychotherapist, I have worked with people facing many struggles, including surviving past trauma and abuse, feeling suicidal, and severe/chronic mental illness. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I have worked with many people who identify as LGBTQ, and have supported people through coming out, gender transition, and accessing gender-affirming health care. As a white therapist, when working with BIPOC clients, I use the frameworks of anti-racism and cultural humility, and strive to make space for exploring the impacts of racism and racial differences.
(217) 472-4109 View (217) 472-4109
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.