Suicide Prevention and Intervention

Suicide, the thoughts of suicide and the impact of suicide touches many of us and varies and a sundry ways. Many of us may have interactions with friends, loved ones, acquaintances or clients and walk away wondering, if this interaction was “a cry for help” - and if it was, what would I say or do about it? This workshop will focus on three aspects of suicide assessment in such a way that anyone can assess. Using primarily motivational interviewing (MI) communication skills (anyone can use these skills) this day will walk through the practicality of “what to say or do.”

First of the three aspects is about the recognition and confirmation of suicidal ideation (SI). Secondly, how to conversationally or formally assess for the level of risk and protective factors (SAMHSA resource), and Third, how to assess boundaries and resources: when, how much and what type of help is needed and activating that help, without getting sucked in over your head. Even if you do not attend this workshop, add the Colorado Crisis phone number in your contacts 1-(844) 493-8255, or text TALK to 38255, or visit www.coloradocrisisservices.org for more info on walk in crisis centers in Colorado

Objectives

• You will walk away with:
• formulaic and practical ways of clarifying and addressing conversations about suicidal thoughts and gestures. (practical and applicable use of MI skills)
• clarification of what creates a higher risk potential for a completed suicide plan.
• clarification of how to identify protective factors and how/when to create greater emphasis on those protective factors, to de-escalate the concerns/crisis
• greater awareness of when to activate crisis protect, call 911 or other crisis intervention resources
• formulaic way of disarming a plan or potential plan and activating support.

Presenter: Tracy L. Hutchinson, LPC, MAC

Tracy is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Master Addictions Counselor (MAC), and Colorado Addictions Counselor (CAC III). She has been working in the field of Addictions and Mental Health for the past 40 years. Currently, through her Counseling and Consulting private practice, Tracy is an approved OBH trainer for Colorado Addictions Counselor (CAC) courses. She is a facilitator of professional growth and development for team building. Additionally, she creates and facilitates experiential/expressive personal growth retreats. Tracy was the author, narrator and co-producer of Levels Meditation, produced in 2001.

Eligible for 3 CEUs