solution focused approach to suicide prevention

This is an experiential one-day workshop which is aimed at practitioners who want to further reduce the suicide rate on their caseload. Delegates are provided with a unique range of tools for use with potentially suicidal clients which both reduces the likelihood of further suicidal thinking and lightens the sense of burden and worry on the part of the practitioner. The skills discussed are valuable for both face-to-face and telephone working.

Objectives

.         Greater confidence and resourcefulness in the face of extreme pessimism

.         Understand and use the solution focused approach to suicidal thinking

.         Practice the skills needed for working with suicidal clients

.         Be confident enough to apply at least 5 new skills with immediate effect

.         Feel more comfortable with clients' expressions of suicide

.         Appreciate the importance of optimism when working with suicidal thinking

Course Content

The solution focused approach as a theoretical model
Seeing suicide as both a challenge and an opportunity
Rapid rapport building
Working face to face and on the phone
Acknowledging a person's right to choose to take their own life
Listening with deep empathy
Acknowledgement and validation of suicidal feelings
The use of the Miracle Question to build a solution picture in which the client survives
Scaling progress, determination and confidence, as appropriate
Generating other possibilities and alternatives to the suicidal idea
Use of presuppositional language and (especially) questions
How to find exceptions to the problem
Regarding suicidal thinking as a normal response by normal people to an abnormal set of circumstances
Ending a session/meeting/call with a suicidal client/caller

What People Say

'...I won't feel fazed any more by suicidal talk.'  ..Probation Officer
'This course de-mystified the frightening moments... I feel empowered.'  ..Project worker