Suicide Prevention

• This is a candid, straightforward guide to treating suicidal patients. It puts aside feel-good aspirations that provide nothing substantial for patients and focuses on the current state of the science.
  —Doody’s Review Service

This book offers essential information about assessing, managing, and providing mental health treatment for suicidal adult outpatients.

Suicide is a heartbreaking phenomenon that is the result of innumerable factors embedded in the personal histories and experiences of each patient. Yet despite this complexity, research has uncovered commonalities that can enable mental health practitioners to successfully treat suicidal patients. In this book, author Sam Knapp guides readers through the full process of treating suicidal patients, from screening to relapse prevention, using effective, research-informed interventions. He explains suicidal behavior through ideation‑to‑action theories of suicide, and argues for the application of principle‑based ethics when making treatment decisions. He emphasizes the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship, and respecting patient autonomy as much as possible in such circumstances.

Throughout, Suicide Prevention makes current research on suicide accessible and useful to practicing mental health providers, connecting it with practical approaches and case examples informed by the author’s extensive clinical experience.

Acknowledgments

Introduction

1. Facts, Theories, and Perspectives on Suicide
2. Screening and Assessment
3. Interventions Part One: Including Managing Suicide Risk
4. Interventions Part Two: Suicide-Informed Psychotherapy
5. Professional Liability, Quality Enhancement, and Emotional Competence

Afterword

Appendix A: Patient Self-Report Sheet

Appendix B: Content Areas to be Covered for Initial Interview and Additional Topics Relevant to Assessing Suicidal Patients

References

Index

About the Author

Samuel J. Knapp, EdD, ABPP, is a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania, where he worked in community mental health centers in two rural counties delivering psychotherapy and crisis intervention services. Currently he is the director of professional affairs of the Pennsylvania Psychological Association.

He has written or edited 16 books; almost 100 peer-reviewed articles; and almost 500 professional presentations on ethics, suicide prevention, and other issues.

He holds a diplomate in counseling psychology from the American Board of Professional Psychology, and he is a fellow of APA Division 31 (State, Provincial and Territorial Psychological Association Affairs).

• As mentioned in US News & Global Report

"Practical guidelines for an evidence-based ethical approach, covering assessment to treatment and postvention with survivors…. Well-written study that blends science and ethical issues in considering the roadblocks to sound relationship-based psychotherapies…. Recommended."
—Choice

This is a candid, straightforward guide to treating suicidal patients. It puts aside feel-good aspirations that provide nothing substantial for patients and focuses on the current state of the science.
—Doody’s

Knapp shares his expertise as a therapist and ethicist, demonstrating compassion and respect for patients suffering from suicidality, their loved ones, and their often highly stressed therapists. This comprehensive yet concise guide covers assessment, acute and ongoing interventions, ethical principles, and the importance of the therapeutic relationship.
—Cory F. Newman, PhD
Director, Center for Cognitive Therapy, and Professor of Psychology, in Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

In this valuable book, Knapp integrates recent suicide research with personal experiences and practical vigne_ es. He emphasizes a caring attitude based on overarching ethical principles and identifies competencies to work with suicidal patients.
—Linda K. Knauss, PhD, ABPP
Professor, Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology, Widener University, Chester, PA

Therapists who treat suicidal clients know just how challenging and stressful the work can be. Knapp provides practical guidance that is informed by research and presented in an easy-to-follow format. An essential resource for practitioners at all levels of experience.
—Randy Fingerhut, PhD
Professor of Psychology, La Salle University, Philadelphia, PA