In an ideal world, we’d all know exactly how we’re feeling.  We’d be honest with ourselves. Likewise, we’d be candid when talking to others.  In the real world, though, we’re not always clear about our own thoughts.  We certainly aren’t going to share that info with many people.  Often, we may have a hard time even being honest with ourselves.  That’s when the danger of suicide comes into play.  We need to acknowledge when it’s time to find a therapist for thoughts of suicide. Importantly, denial is an obstacle to helping someone who is suicidal.  How do you find a therapist for thoughts of suicide? Particularly, if you can’t admit to yourself that’s what’s really happening? 

Sometimes, even people in therapy may expect their therapists to be mind readers. They are often reluctant to share that they’ve had suicidal thoughts.  Frequently, the only reason people seek help is because someone else talked them into it.  An individual may start therapy wanting to discuss how hard their job is. Over several sessions, though, it may become clear that they are considering taking their life.  

Not every therapist knows how to help people with suicidal thoughts. This may be especially true if your thoughts of suicide are severe.  If you have a specific plan for suicide, you need to see a counselor experienced in dealing with suicide.  However, if your thoughts are more passive, a therapist with a general background may be able to help. (For instance, wishing you could sleep forever, is a passive suicidal thought.) In conclusion, the more specific the plan, the more imminent the intent–the more important that you work with someone skilled in treating thoughts of suicide ASAP.