Suicide: What Therapists Need To Know

For Professionals
There is a clear need for training in the management and treatment of suicidal patients. This workshop addresses that need by providing an in-depth explanation of the dynamics underlying suicide, assessment strategies, a variety of treatment approaches, and an understanding of the legal, ethical, and case management issues when dealing with suicidal clients.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• become familiar with demographic factors associated with suicide risk including: Sex, Psychological, Psychiatric, and Social factors;
  
• become familiar with objective measures for assessing suicide risk;
  
• learn which factors to consider when forming clinical judgments about suicide;

• learn about common mistakes made by clinicians when dealing with high risk clients;
  
• learn to conceptualize suicidal behavior based on studies of the relationship between negative thought processes and self-destructive acting out;
  
• recognize acceptable standards of care in the management of the suicidal patient;
  
• learn to develop appropriate responses and interventions for clients in crisis.

For the General Public
Suicide is a public health issue, and all communities can benefit from a better understanding of the causes of self-destructive and suicidal behavior. This workshop provides a framework for understanding the risk factors for suicide, the warning signs to look for in friends or family, and steps to take that can save lives in our families and communities.