The Essentials of Assessing Suicidal Patients 2024

Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States and the most frequent crisis encountered by mental health professionals. The goal of this home study is to help psychologists become better at assessing suicidal patients. It will cover essential questions to ask patients, how to ask them, and how to integrate interview data with other sources of information is assess the risk of suicide and prepare for safety interventions and psychotherapy. It covers initial questions, acute and static risk factors, and ways to reduce the risk of non-disclosure, and it includes a glossary and detailed appendices.

Program Learning Objectives. At the end of the program, participants will be able to describe basic information about

1. Describe how to interview suicidal patients
2. List ways to integrate respect for patient decision-making in the assessment
3. Identify the risk and protective factors for suicide
4. Describe how to integrate interview data and other sources of information

CREDITS OFFERED: 2 Continuing Education Credit for psychologists and educators. (75% score or higher required)

The Pennsylvania Psychological Association is approved by the American Psychological Association to offer continuing education for psychologists.  PPA maintains responsibility for this program and its content.  The Pennsylvania Psychological Association is an approved provider for Act 48 Continuing Professional Education Requirements as mandated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.