Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Toronto, ON

Photo of Christopher McKinnon, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Christopher McKinnon
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S
As a therapist, I am here to work with you to overcome the challenges that you are facing. Whether you are struggling with depression or anxiety, thoughts about suicide, challenges related to chronic illness or disability, interpersonal and relationship issues, cultural identity, immigration, sexuality, gender identity, grief and loss, or difficult emotions, we will work together to build up your resources and your resilience.
As a therapist, I am here to work with you to overcome the challenges that you are facing. Whether you are struggling with depression or anxiety, thoughts about suicide, challenges related to chronic illness or disability, interpersonal and relationship issues, cultural identity, immigration, sexuality, gender identity, grief and loss, or difficult emotions, we will work together to build up your resources and your resilience.
(647) 847-3943 View (647) 847-3943
Photo of Amanda Buckingham, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Amanda Buckingham
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4J  (Online Only)
Offering DBT and Radically Open DBT! Are you always extremely organized? Do you put 110% into your work and set high personal standards? Good for you! These traits are often applauded by society, and those around us, however, research shows that “too much of a good thing” can lead to other problems such as chronic depression, anxiety, anorexia nervosa, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.If you are someone who is using self harm to cope, or experiencing suicidal thoughts and urges, I am here to support as well. I am passionate about supporting people with borderline personality disorder as it can be so misunderstood.
Offering DBT and Radically Open DBT! Are you always extremely organized? Do you put 110% into your work and set high personal standards? Good for you! These traits are often applauded by society, and those around us, however, research shows that “too much of a good thing” can lead to other problems such as chronic depression, anxiety, anorexia nervosa, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.If you are someone who is using self harm to cope, or experiencing suicidal thoughts and urges, I am here to support as well. I am passionate about supporting people with borderline personality disorder as it can be so misunderstood.
(437) 747-4672 View (437) 747-4672
Photo of Alejandra Lindan, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Alejandra Lindan
Registered Psychotherapist, MMT, RP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4K  (Online Only)
I offer DBT to adults, and to parents of suicidal teens.
Hi! Thanks for visiting. Maybe it’s like you’re about to drown in overwhelm, and you wish you could catch your breath. Maybe that out-of-control urge exploded again, and you wish you could find that kind of relief without all the mess afterward. Maybe it exploded in one or more of your relationships, and you don’t know what to do, but you feel unspeakably lost or lonely about it. Maybe at times you’ve given up on life being worth living. Maybe other times you do everything you can think of to survive. Or maybe it’s your teen or someone else you love who’s going through things like this, and you need support. I’d love to help.
I offer DBT to adults, and to parents of suicidal teens.
Hi! Thanks for visiting. Maybe it’s like you’re about to drown in overwhelm, and you wish you could catch your breath. Maybe that out-of-control urge exploded again, and you wish you could find that kind of relief without all the mess afterward. Maybe it exploded in one or more of your relationships, and you don’t know what to do, but you feel unspeakably lost or lonely about it. Maybe at times you’ve given up on life being worth living. Maybe other times you do everything you can think of to survive. Or maybe it’s your teen or someone else you love who’s going through things like this, and you need support. I’d love to help.
(647) 559-3080 View (647) 559-3080
Photo of Lou Gallo, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Lou Gallo
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4M
My name is Lou Gallo and I am a trans-identified clinical social worker who has been in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have worked in school settings, in the community with LGBTQ2IS youth, and within clinical mental health setttings. I have a specialization working with adults who have experienced trauma, including those who have experiences of suicidality and suicidal behaviours. I also have specific experience supporting people who identify as having a Learning Disability and/or ADHD.
My name is Lou Gallo and I am a trans-identified clinical social worker who has been in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have worked in school settings, in the community with LGBTQ2IS youth, and within clinical mental health setttings. I have a specialization working with adults who have experienced trauma, including those who have experiences of suicidality and suicidal behaviours. I also have specific experience supporting people who identify as having a Learning Disability and/or ADHD.
(437) 747-6067 View (437) 747-6067
Photo of Katherine Hall, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Katherine Hall
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Waitlist for new clients
My work focuses on supporting children, teens and young professionals on issues of anxiety, depression, suicide, self-harm and trauma.
Life has endless challenges for children, youth and young adults these days. Issues that previous generations didn't even need to think about are now part of every day life for younger generations - cyberbullying, worries about school safety, increased rates of mental health struggles, societal conversations about gender and sexuality... On top of that are the issues that have plagued youth for generations - stress, school, dating, friends, and numerous other issues to wade through day by day. Sometimes it's hard to cope with these things on our own though, and that's where I come in.
My work focuses on supporting children, teens and young professionals on issues of anxiety, depression, suicide, self-harm and trauma.
Life has endless challenges for children, youth and young adults these days. Issues that previous generations didn't even need to think about are now part of every day life for younger generations - cyberbullying, worries about school safety, increased rates of mental health struggles, societal conversations about gender and sexuality... On top of that are the issues that have plagued youth for generations - stress, school, dating, friends, and numerous other issues to wade through day by day. Sometimes it's hard to cope with these things on our own though, and that's where I come in.
(647) 559-9089 View (647) 559-9089
Photo of Hailey Goldberg, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Hailey Goldberg
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5N  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Social Worker (MSW) who is experienced in helping people work through mental health challenges and improve their quality of life. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harming behaviours, as well as suicidal ideations. I believe that every person can benefit from talking with a counsellor; there is no problem too big or too small. I am passionate about mental health and dedicated to enriching the lives of my clients. Together we can work to identify your strengths and achieve wellness.
I am a Registered Social Worker (MSW) who is experienced in helping people work through mental health challenges and improve their quality of life. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harming behaviours, as well as suicidal ideations. I believe that every person can benefit from talking with a counsellor; there is no problem too big or too small. I am passionate about mental health and dedicated to enriching the lives of my clients. Together we can work to identify your strengths and achieve wellness.
(647) 691-0223 View (647) 691-0223
Photo of Mohammad Barzegari , Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Mohammad Barzegari
Registered Psychotherapist, RP (Q), MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5E  (Online Only)
I use DBT, ACT, and IFS (the most efficient modalities in psychotherapy) to help YOU overcome Anxiety, Depression, Relational problems, Suicidal ideation, ADHD, and trauma.
Are you frustrated with your INNER-VOICE? Do you feel lost in this world? Are you tired of not reaching your GOALS? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re in the right place. With over 10 years of education in psychology and 7 years of experience working as an international therapist, I’ve learned how our unconscious human mind can block our way and make us stuck. I can help you to change what is NOT working in your life. I design treatment plans based on your needs and use only scientific tools to ensure YOU get what you need out of therapy.
I use DBT, ACT, and IFS (the most efficient modalities in psychotherapy) to help YOU overcome Anxiety, Depression, Relational problems, Suicidal ideation, ADHD, and trauma.
Are you frustrated with your INNER-VOICE? Do you feel lost in this world? Are you tired of not reaching your GOALS? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re in the right place. With over 10 years of education in psychology and 7 years of experience working as an international therapist, I’ve learned how our unconscious human mind can block our way and make us stuck. I can help you to change what is NOT working in your life. I design treatment plans based on your needs and use only scientific tools to ensure YOU get what you need out of therapy.
(289) 804-5862 View (289) 804-5862
Photo of DBT Virtual - DBT Program in ON, BC, AB & NS, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
DBT Virtual - DBT Program in ON, BC, AB & NS
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
DBT has proven to be effective for people with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, aggression, substance use, self-harm and suicidal behaviours.
Do you often find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster, struggling to get a hold of strong urges and stay in control? We help people with intense emotions, self-defeating thoughts and unhealthy behaviours that get in the way of them feeling and functioning at their best. We're a team of therapists specializing in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and we're here to help you untangle longstanding patterns so that you can take back control over your emotions and live a more meaningful life.
DBT has proven to be effective for people with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, aggression, substance use, self-harm and suicidal behaviours.
Do you often find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster, struggling to get a hold of strong urges and stay in control? We help people with intense emotions, self-defeating thoughts and unhealthy behaviours that get in the way of them feeling and functioning at their best. We're a team of therapists specializing in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and we're here to help you untangle longstanding patterns so that you can take back control over your emotions and live a more meaningful life.
(289) 210-5144 View (289) 210-5144
Photo of Kerri Murphy Phillips, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Kerri Murphy Phillips
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc, LCAT, R-DMT, RP (Q), CCC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2N
In my practice, I work closely with clients aged 10-25 as they navigate the complexities of adolescence. I specialize in supporting them through challenges such as identity formation, interpersonal conflicts, suicidal ideation, self-harm, anxiety, depression, authenticity, and personal expression. My approach fosters a queer-inclusive safe space, offering validation and empathy. Together, we focus on building resilience, self-esteem, and coping skills, while also cultivating an embodied understanding of healthy emotional regulation.
In my practice, I work closely with clients aged 10-25 as they navigate the complexities of adolescence. I specialize in supporting them through challenges such as identity formation, interpersonal conflicts, suicidal ideation, self-harm, anxiety, depression, authenticity, and personal expression. My approach fosters a queer-inclusive safe space, offering validation and empathy. Together, we focus on building resilience, self-esteem, and coping skills, while also cultivating an embodied understanding of healthy emotional regulation.
(289) 513-3721 View (289) 513-3721
Photo of Dianna Ilk, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Dianna Ilk
Registered Psychotherapist, MFA, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5S
I have worked for many decades as a suicide and crisis counsellor, a visual artist and professor, and a parent.
Accepting New Clients. When you find yourself going through a life transition, feeling anxious or depressed, or grieving a loss, you might feel confused and overwhelmed. Often our thoughts and feelings get tangled with expectations leaving us unsure about how to move forward in our lives. Together we will explore what is working for you and what parts of your self are being challenged. By developing greater self-awareness and practicing self-acceptance, you will begin to discover new ways to grow and strengthen as a person. When you know yourself better you can begin to intercept unhealthy patterns of living as they emerge.
I have worked for many decades as a suicide and crisis counsellor, a visual artist and professor, and a parent.
Accepting New Clients. When you find yourself going through a life transition, feeling anxious or depressed, or grieving a loss, you might feel confused and overwhelmed. Often our thoughts and feelings get tangled with expectations leaving us unsure about how to move forward in our lives. Together we will explore what is working for you and what parts of your self are being challenged. By developing greater self-awareness and practicing self-acceptance, you will begin to discover new ways to grow and strengthen as a person. When you know yourself better you can begin to intercept unhealthy patterns of living as they emerge.
(343) 307-5663 View (343) 307-5663
Photo of Makinz Madigan Meisel, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Makinz Madigan Meisel
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Certified in Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk or AMSR.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I am a client-centered, trauma-informed practicing queer social worker. I specialize in clinical practice; as well as, connecting my clients to appropriate community services and supports. I am committed to serving diverse communities as a social worker and advocate. I specialize in aiding 2SLGBTQIA communities with a focus on folks who identify as transgender/non gender conforming/fluid. Moreover, I have years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, dual diagnosis, mental health, specifically mood disorders, and trauma.
Certified in Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk or AMSR.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I am a client-centered, trauma-informed practicing queer social worker. I specialize in clinical practice; as well as, connecting my clients to appropriate community services and supports. I am committed to serving diverse communities as a social worker and advocate. I specialize in aiding 2SLGBTQIA communities with a focus on folks who identify as transgender/non gender conforming/fluid. Moreover, I have years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, dual diagnosis, mental health, specifically mood disorders, and trauma.
(647) 492-5207 View (647) 492-5207
Photo of Rachel Liebman, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
Rachel Liebman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4K
As a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience, I help teenagers, adults, couples or parents make sense of their past experiences so that they can have more fulfilling lives in the present and future. I have a special interest in working with individuals and couples with trauma who struggle with self harming behaviours like eating disorders, suicide, self injury, as well as people struggling with borderline personality disorder and emotion dysregulation. Beyond these specific issues, if your goal is to understand, appreciate, and break old patterns that are standing in your way, I am here to help you in that process.
As a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience, I help teenagers, adults, couples or parents make sense of their past experiences so that they can have more fulfilling lives in the present and future. I have a special interest in working with individuals and couples with trauma who struggle with self harming behaviours like eating disorders, suicide, self injury, as well as people struggling with borderline personality disorder and emotion dysregulation. Beyond these specific issues, if your goal is to understand, appreciate, and break old patterns that are standing in your way, I am here to help you in that process.
(416) 236-8162 View (416) 236-8162
Photo of Aleef Esmail, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Aleef Esmail
Registered Social Worker, BSc, (Psych), MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
I provide Psychometric Assessments, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solutions-Focused Therapy, Suicide Intervention, and Anti-Oppressive Practice.
As a Registered Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, I provide professional support to individuals, families, health teams, and organizations. For 20 years I have worked with individuals at critical points in their lives. Coping with difficult life transitions can be challenging for many reasons. People often seek therapy as a means to navigate these circumstances and understand why they feel the way they do. The work towards change is driven by you. Helping you find motivation and/or clarity is driven by both of us. I am here to help, regardless of complexity - let us start together.
I provide Psychometric Assessments, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solutions-Focused Therapy, Suicide Intervention, and Anti-Oppressive Practice.
As a Registered Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, I provide professional support to individuals, families, health teams, and organizations. For 20 years I have worked with individuals at critical points in their lives. Coping with difficult life transitions can be challenging for many reasons. People often seek therapy as a means to navigate these circumstances and understand why they feel the way they do. The work towards change is driven by you. Helping you find motivation and/or clarity is driven by both of us. I am here to help, regardless of complexity - let us start together.
(647) 691-8262 View (647) 691-8262
Photo of andtherapy (DBT), Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
andtherapy (DBT)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no). We also offer trauma treatment through Prolonged Exposure-DBT and/or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because many of the current day experiences, emotions & views of the world, are based on previous experiences.
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no). We also offer trauma treatment through Prolonged Exposure-DBT and/or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because many of the current day experiences, emotions & views of the world, are based on previous experiences.
(437) 747-6361 View (437) 747-6361
Photo of The Ontario DBT Centre, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
The Ontario DBT Centre
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
Our Comprehensive Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) program helps people who experience intense emotions, chronic depression, intense anxiety, impulsive behaviours, self-harm/suicidal behaviour, or problems in relationships. Our treatment is tailored to each individual clients' needs and focused on helping each client achieve the goals that they themselves wish to work towards.
Our Comprehensive Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) program helps people who experience intense emotions, chronic depression, intense anxiety, impulsive behaviours, self-harm/suicidal behaviour, or problems in relationships. Our treatment is tailored to each individual clients' needs and focused on helping each client achieve the goals that they themselves wish to work towards.
(844) 989-3963 View (844) 989-3963
Photo of Noor Alassadi in Toronto, ON
Noor Alassadi
PhD, MS, OAMHP, CBT, OACYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2N
Here is the best place to find your inner strength. Yes, I help you to heal from your pain, your grief, or sadness. But also, I am here to help you move forward and repair yourself so you are stronger than you used to be! I have experience in working with different mental health concerns including abuse, bullying, ADHD, ADD, ASD, OCD, anxiety, conduct disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, academic/intellectual limitations, emotional disorders, suicidal ideation, panic attacks, depression, emotional eating, cultural shock, immigration challenges, diversity, and trauma/PTSD.
Here is the best place to find your inner strength. Yes, I help you to heal from your pain, your grief, or sadness. But also, I am here to help you move forward and repair yourself so you are stronger than you used to be! I have experience in working with different mental health concerns including abuse, bullying, ADHD, ADD, ASD, OCD, anxiety, conduct disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, academic/intellectual limitations, emotional disorders, suicidal ideation, panic attacks, depression, emotional eating, cultural shock, immigration challenges, diversity, and trauma/PTSD.
(289) 302-7077 View (289) 302-7077
Photo of Dialectical Living, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Dialectical Living
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4J  (Online Only)
Do you have difficulties with maintaining relationships, substance use, self-harm, suicidal ideation, dissociation, disordered eating and/or overspending? Challenges working, going to school or being independent? Have you been on a wait list for treatment? Do you want to learn Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills? Many individuals we serve identify as having Borderline Personality traits, depression, bi-polar, anxiety, eating disorders and addiction. We specialize in treating people with challenges with emotion regulation using DBT. If you answered yes to any of the above questions DBT may be a great fit for you!
Do you have difficulties with maintaining relationships, substance use, self-harm, suicidal ideation, dissociation, disordered eating and/or overspending? Challenges working, going to school or being independent? Have you been on a wait list for treatment? Do you want to learn Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills? Many individuals we serve identify as having Borderline Personality traits, depression, bi-polar, anxiety, eating disorders and addiction. We specialize in treating people with challenges with emotion regulation using DBT. If you answered yes to any of the above questions DBT may be a great fit for you!
(647) 573-3287 View (647) 573-3287
Photo of Jemmelia Morgan, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Jemmelia Morgan
Registered Social Worker, CYCP, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4W
Embark on a transformative journey with me as your guide. Perhaps you are someone navigating the complexities of life or self-growth. In my 12 years of experience, I've worked individuals grappling with self-esteem, depression, anxiety, self-harm, family dynamics, or suicidal thoughts. I find immense fulfillment in supporting individuals seeking support with relationships, past trauma, enhancing their self-image, and guidance with various life transitions. If you're hoping to improve your outlook on current or past life events, my goal is to create a safe space for exploration, building resilience, and improved personal well-being.
Embark on a transformative journey with me as your guide. Perhaps you are someone navigating the complexities of life or self-growth. In my 12 years of experience, I've worked individuals grappling with self-esteem, depression, anxiety, self-harm, family dynamics, or suicidal thoughts. I find immense fulfillment in supporting individuals seeking support with relationships, past trauma, enhancing their self-image, and guidance with various life transitions. If you're hoping to improve your outlook on current or past life events, my goal is to create a safe space for exploration, building resilience, and improved personal well-being.
(437) 800-1377 View (437) 800-1377
Photo of Mihaela Dirlea, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Mihaela Dirlea
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5S
At Wellspring, The Princess Margaret, and CAMH I have worked with individuals facing cancer, trauma, anxiety, depression, loss of independence, anger, isolation, and suicidal thoughts.
As a Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Qualified Mindfulness Instructor, I work with you to help you make sense of your own life experiences, understand how your past affects you now, and make positive changes. Mindfulness is an integral part of my personal and professional life. Since 2009 I have studied the intersection of Buddhism and Psychology and I have partnered with several government and public institutions to run accessible mindfulness programs (including MBSR) for staff and students (i.e. Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, UofT, Central LHIN, The Princess Margaret).
At Wellspring, The Princess Margaret, and CAMH I have worked with individuals facing cancer, trauma, anxiety, depression, loss of independence, anger, isolation, and suicidal thoughts.
As a Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Qualified Mindfulness Instructor, I work with you to help you make sense of your own life experiences, understand how your past affects you now, and make positive changes. Mindfulness is an integral part of my personal and professional life. Since 2009 I have studied the intersection of Buddhism and Psychology and I have partnered with several government and public institutions to run accessible mindfulness programs (including MBSR) for staff and students (i.e. Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, UofT, Central LHIN, The Princess Margaret).
(647) 492-4318 View (647) 492-4318
Photo of Ivana Kolakovic, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Ivana Kolakovic
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, SEP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5A
I work from a humanistic, embodied and evidence-based framework and have additional training in CBT therapy and peer-based crisis response/suicide care strategies.
I am a relational psychotherapist and trauma practitioner. I completed 5-year Psychotherapy training at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto, 3-year Somatic Experiencing training for trauma resolution (Montreal), and I hold a MA in Women's and Gender Studies (Carleton University, Ottawa). I have worked deeply with people struggling with a range of emotions/experiences including grief, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anger, childhood abuse and psychosocial trauma (including war), post-immigration experiences, relationship difficulties and self-actualization issues. My practice is trans, queer, fat and sex worker affirming.
I work from a humanistic, embodied and evidence-based framework and have additional training in CBT therapy and peer-based crisis response/suicide care strategies.
I am a relational psychotherapist and trauma practitioner. I completed 5-year Psychotherapy training at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto, 3-year Somatic Experiencing training for trauma resolution (Montreal), and I hold a MA in Women's and Gender Studies (Carleton University, Ottawa). I have worked deeply with people struggling with a range of emotions/experiences including grief, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anger, childhood abuse and psychosocial trauma (including war), post-immigration experiences, relationship difficulties and self-actualization issues. My practice is trans, queer, fat and sex worker affirming.
(647) 496-1342 View (647) 496-1342

See more therapy options for Toronto

Suicidal Ideation Counsellors

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 behavioural 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 behavioural, dialectical behaviour, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioural and dialectical behaviour 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.