Find Therapy for Suicidal Thoughts

Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on June 24, 2024
Written by the MiResource team

If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts, it can feel overwhelming, isolating, and terrifying. But you are not alone—and more importantly, you do not have to suffer in silence. Support is available. Therapy can help you find relief, develop coping strategies, and reconnect with hope.

  • Carla Weismantel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Carla Weismantel

    Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    342 N Water St, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202

    Carla Weismantel is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They treat Suicidal Thoughts, Career, Anxiety.

    The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.

    View profile
  • Ada Wang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Ada Wang

    Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    486 W Boughton Rd, Bolingbrook, Illinois 60440

    Ada Wang is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bolingbrook, Illinois. They treat Suicidal Thoughts, Trauma, Abuse.

    The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.

    View profile
  • Michelle Litwer, Psychologist

    Michelle Litwer

    Psychologist

    Remote only

    Michelle Litwer is a Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Suicidal Thoughts, Sleep Concerns, Alcohol Use.

    My main objective is to help clients manage their emotions, make decisions that are line with their values, and to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

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  • Kelly Huffaker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Kelly Huffaker

    Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    2460 West Ray Road, Chandler, Arizona 85224

    Kelly Huffaker is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chandler, Arizona and has been in practice for 5 years. They treat Suicidal Thoughts, Suicidal Ideation, Depression.

    Dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where individuals can find healing, understanding, & empowerment on their journey towards mental wellness.

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  • Sandra Tursini, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    Sandra Tursini

    Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    2409 South Rural Road, STE C, Tempe, Arizona 85282

    Sandra Tursini is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Tempe, Arizona and has been in practice for 30 years. They treat Suicidal Thoughts, End of Life, Life Transitions.

    Caring LPC with 30+ years’ expertise in diverse counseling areas, committed to recognizing individual worth and guiding clients through life's challenges

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  • William Alkhoury, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    William Alkhoury

    Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    4700 South Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85282

    William Alkhoury is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Tempe, Arizona and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Suicidal Thoughts, Personal Growth, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

    Discovering Meaning And A Life Worth Living

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What are suicidal thoughts?

Suicidal thoughts, also known as suicidal ideation, are thoughts about ending your own life. These thoughts can range from vague feelings of not wanting to exist to more specific plans or desires to die. Some people have fleeting suicidal thoughts during stressful times, while others experience them chronically.

Suicidal ideation is not a character flaw or a failure—it's often a symptom of profound emotional pain, trauma, or mental health challenges. And it can happen to anyone, regardless of background, age, or success level.

Experiencing suicidal thoughts is a sign that something deep inside you is hurting—not that you actually want to die. That pain deserves attention, not judgment.


What is the difference between passive and active suicidal thoughts?

Understanding the difference between passive and active suicidal ideation helps clarify the level of risk and need for immediate support.

  • Passive suicidal thoughts involve a wish to disappear, stop existing, or not wake up—but without a concrete plan or intention to end your life. Examples include, “I wish I could go to sleep and never wake up.”
  • Active suicidal thoughts involve thinking about methods, making a plan, or feeling ready to act on suicidal urges.

Both types are serious and deserve compassionate support. You don’t need to reach a crisis point to seek help. A suicidal ideation therapist can help you explore your feelings safely and without judgment.


Does having suicidal thoughts mean I want to die?

Not necessarily. In many cases, suicidal thoughts are less about wanting to die and more about wanting the pain to stop. You may feel trapped, hopeless, or exhausted by emotional distress, and suicide may seem like the only option left.

But there are always other options—even if you can't see them right now.

Therapists trained in therapy for suicidal thoughts can help you:

  • Understand the root of your pain
  • Learn how to cope without self-harm
  • Rebuild connection to meaning, hope, and support

Wanting relief is not the same as wanting death. A suicidal ideation therapist can help you find that relief safely.


How do I cope if I am having suicidal thoughts?

If you are currently struggling, know that there are things you can do right now to reduce the intensity of suicidal thoughts and keep yourself safe:

  1. Tell someone you trust: A friend, family member, therapist, or crisis line can offer immediate emotional support.
  2. Create a safety plan: Write down warning signs, coping strategies, emergency contacts, and reasons to stay alive.
  3. Limit access to means: Remove or secure anything that could be used for self-harm.
  4. Practice grounding techniques: Focus on the present moment using your senses—name 5 things you see, 4 you feel, 3 you hear, etc.
  5. Use crisis resources: Call or text a suicide prevention line (in the U.S., dial 988), or use online chat services.

Remember, suicidal thoughts can pass. With the right support, you can survive this moment and find your way forward. Coping with suicidal thoughts starts with not facing them alone.


Can therapy or medications really help with suicidal thoughts?

Yes—therapy and, in some cases, medication can significantly reduce or eliminate suicidal ideation. Evidence-based treatments not only help address symptoms but also target the underlying emotional pain driving them.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Suicidal Ideation

CBT for suicidal ideation helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, build problem-solving skills, and increase emotional regulation. It’s one of the most studied and effective treatments for reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Suicidal Ideation

DBT for suicidal ideation was specifically developed to help people with chronic suicidal thoughts and self-harming behaviors. It focuses on:

  • Building distress tolerance
  • Regulating emotions
  • Improving interpersonal effectiveness
  • Cultivating mindfulness and self-compassion

Many individuals who’ve tried everything else find DBT life-changing.

Medication

If suicidal thoughts are linked to conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety, medication may help reduce symptoms enough to regain clarity and hope. These may include:

  • SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, fluoxetine)
  • Mood stabilizers
  • Atypical antipsychotics

A psychiatrist or suicide prevention therapist can determine the best approach for your needs.

Find care for Suicidal Thoughts

Remember, recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive network, and the right professional care, you can overcome the challenges of Suicidal Thoughts and build a fulfilling life. We are here to help you find care.

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