This workshop focuses on enhancing the participant’s knowledge of pragmatic approaches to suicide risk assessment; recognition of common and potentially fatal errors in risk assessment; and risk assessment tactics that support the potential for positive intervention. We will identify the ways in which the traditional suicide assessment questions (ideation, plan and means) are inadequate, the flaws of suicide prediction in contrast to the value of risk assessment, and the risks and benefits of various short-term responses to suicide risk, such as hospitalization versus outpatient treatment. The emphasis is on assessment approaches and options for immediate response to risk, rather than on psychotherapy techniques.

The workshop is appropriate for those whose duties may include ongoing or occasional responsibility for risk assessment, such as: psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, professional counselors, physicians, physician assistants, nurses, emergency room personnel, medical social workers, substance abuse professionals, crisis line clinicians, EMTs and paramedics, law enforcement officers, high school and college counselors, and members of the clergy.

GOAL: To provide essential information in suicide risk assessment and short-term risk reduction, for individuals who may need to perform some level of risk assessment in the course of their professional duties. (7 Contact Hours)