Paulo is a therapist working with Tim, who has just disclosed he is suicidal. What strategy will help Paulo ensure Tim does not act on him impulses?
A)Encouraging Tim to focus on how terrible things are
B)Asking Tim for specific details of his plan
C)Suggesting that Tim act out his suicidal fantasies in session
D)Helping Tim see options other than suffering

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Helping Tim see options other than suffering is the best choice because it will redirect Tim's focus to possible solutions rather than dwelling on his suicidal thoughts. It is important for the therapist to steer the conversation towards coping mechanisms and ways to move forward. Encouraging Tim to focus on how terrible things are or suggesting that Tim act out his suicidal fantasies in session could potentially worsen his state of mind. Asking for specific details of his plan may be useful information to have for safety planning purposes, but the focus should be on providing support and alternatives to self-harm.

Paulo Is a Therapist Working with Tim, Who Has Just