In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month and Suicide Prevention Week, we asked our therapists how to effectively support individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts and how therapy plays a crucial role in suicide prevention. Here’s what they had to say:
Understanding Warning Signs and Building Trust
Lasita Kirkland, LMFT, emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs and assessing the risk level in clients. She explains, “Therapy creates a safe environment where clients can express themselves without judgment, developing healthy strategies to manage their concerns. Building trust through the therapeutic relationship allows clients to freely explore their thoughts and feelings.”
Validation and Safety Planning
Latoya Lockhart, ALC, highlights the need for validation, explaining, “Many people with suicidal thoughts feel like they have no one to talk to. Validating their feelings and working on a safety plan can be powerful steps toward preventing suicide. Therapy provides a space for empathy, active listening, and tools to help clients when suicidal thoughts arise.”
Holding Space and Assessing Moods
Dominique Jones, ALC, shares that offering a nonjudgmental space for clients to express themselves can make a world of difference. “Being a listening ear, asking them directly if they want to harm themselves, and creating a safe space for them to process their feelings can encourage them to seek help. Regular mood assessments during therapy help clients manage their emotions and prevent suicidal behaviors.”
The Role of Calmness and Compassion
Dr. Veronica Harper, PhD, LPC, advises therapists to remain calm when supporting someone with suicidal ideations. “Therapists should assess the situation, remove access to potential means, and listen attentively without trying to fix things immediately. Creating a trusting and compassionate environment helps the individual feel supported while exploring coping skills and safety plans.”
Nonjudgmental Listening
Kenya Wilcox, LMSW, emphasizes the importance of actively listening without judgment. “It’s crucial to validate the person’s experience and never downplay their pain. They are the experts of their own experience, and understanding their pain is essential in helping them find healing.”
Creating a Safe Space and Asking Direct Questions
Jacquelyn Wellmeier, LMSW, CTP, brings a trauma-informed perspective to supporting suicidal individuals. “Creating a safe, non-judgmental space and asking direct questions about suicidal thoughts can make a significant difference. Therapy, particularly Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), helps clients challenge negative thoughts and develop healthier coping strategies.”
Jacquelyn also notes the importance of addressing underlying trauma, which can often contribute to suicidal thoughts. As a QPR-certified therapist, she is equipped to recognize warning signs and connect individuals with the resources they need to stay safe.
Therapy’s Role in Suicide Prevention
Across all the therapists' responses, a common theme emerges: therapy is a life-saving tool in suicide prevention. By creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment and offering strategies to cope with distressing thoughts, therapists can support individuals through their darkest moments.
At The Mental Haven, our therapists are committed to providing compassionate care to those in need. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out. Our team is here to help you explore your feelings, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and create a plan for safety and healing. Contact us today to schedule a session with one of our skilled therapists. Together, we can navigate this journey toward hope and recovery.
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