Addressing Imminent Risk for Suicide in Private Practice

Key points

While suicide risk does not have to mean hospitalization, sometimes there is no other way to maintain safety.

Knowing the steps you will take when risk is heightened can ensure a smooth transition to a hospital setting.

Any involuntary actions should only be considered as an absolute last resort.

In previous posts, I have discussed Suicide Assessment in Private Practice and introduced how to Formulate Risk and plan with your client for safety. But what if your assessment indicates significant risk? How do you support your client then, and at what point do you consider hospitalization?

Imminent Risk

Determining that your client is at risk for suicide does not always mean hospitalization is necessary. There will be times when, despite active suicidal thoughts, your cli