Psychotherapy with suicidal people: the commonalities.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychotherapy Research

Background:

• Historical and recent research indicates psychotherapy's efficacy.
• Common factors are identified as key elements across therapeutic modalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the research basis for effective psychotherapy with suicidal individuals.
• To determine if psychotherapy is effective for this population.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of historical and recent publications.
• Analysis of common factors in psychotherapy.
• Examination of patient and therapist qualities.

Main Results:

• Psychotherapy is effective for suicidal people.
• The therapeutic relationship and other common factors are primary drivers of success.
• A multi-modal approach considering individual patient and therapist qualities is important.

Conclusions:

• Effective psychotherapy for suicidal individuals relies on common factors and a person-centered approach.
• Understanding the individual patient is paramount for successful treatment outcomes.