Supporting You Through Suicidal Thoughts

You’re Not Alone – Here’s How We Work Together

If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, I want you to know: your feelings matter, and your safety is my priority. This page explains how we’ll approach these conversations, so you know exactly what to expect.

My Approach (Aligned with NICE Guidelines NG225)

I follow the latest evidence-based practices, which means:
✅ No "risk categories" – I won’t label you as "low" or "high risk." These labels aren’t helpful—your experience is unique.
✅ Collaborative safety planning – Together, we’ll explore what helps you feel safer.
✅ Your autonomy comes first – You’re in control of your decisions unless there’s an immediate danger we can’t manage otherwise.

What Happens in Sessions

If you share suicidal thoughts, we’ll:

1. Listen deeply

   • I’ll ask open questions like:
     “How long have you felt this way?”
     “What’s helped you cope before?”
     “Who or what makes you feel safer right now?”

2. Create a personal safety plan

   • We’ll identify:

     • Coping strategies that work for you.

     • People you can reach out to (friends, family, support services).

     • Steps to take if feelings become overwhelming.

3. Respect your choices

   • Unless there’s an immediate crisis, you decide what happens next.

Between Sessions

• If you contact me outside sessions, I’ll respond with care, but I’m not an emergency service.

• For urgent support, please use:

  • Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)

  • SHOUT Crisis Text Line: Text "85258"

  • 999 (if you’re in immediate danger).

• Next session, we’ll discuss what happened and adjust your plan if needed.

Rare Cases: When I Might Need to Involve Others

I’ll only contact emergency services or your GP if:

• You ask me to.

• You’re unable to stay safe, and we’ve discussed it first (where possible).

• There’s no time to talk (e.g., you’re in immediate danger and can’t respond).

I will always try to keep you informed and involved.

For Supervisees: Professional Guidance

This policy aligns with:

• NICE Guidelines (NG225) – No risk rating, collaborative approach.

• BACP Ethical Framework – Balancing autonomy and duty of care.

• Key practices for your work:

  • Document discussions (not assumptions).

  • Use supervision to reflect on complex cases.

Immediate Support Resources

If you’re struggling right now:

• Call 116 123 (Samaritans, 24/7)

• Text "SHOUT" to 85258 (crisis text line)

• Call 999 (emergency services)

A Final Note

Talking about suicidal thoughts takes courage. You’re not a burden—this is what therapy is for. If you have questions about how I work, just ask.