Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches to the Management of Suicidal Adolescents in Outpatient Practice

In this workshop, I will first briefly review the rationale underlying the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for the treatment of suicidality in depressed adolescents and the literature supporting whether CBT for depression reduces suicidal thoughts and behavior. A description of the core cognitive, affective, and behavioral techniques used to address suicidal ideation and behavior in depressed adolescents will then be reviewed using case vignettes. Special attention will be given to working with parents when managing suicidal adolescents and threats to harm themselves. Finally, case examples will also be used to discuss factors that increase acuity and risk status and the intervention techniques that can be used in such situations, including alcohol abusing suicidal adolescents. Workshop participants will receive protocol modules covering the details of the intervention techniques discussed in the workshop.