Emergency Risk Evaluations

Children and adolescents in distress often communicate distress by suicidal ideation (I wish I was dead). At times, this is a cry for help and at other times a symptom of severe depression, with a sense of absolute hopelessness and apathy.

School authorities often contact us if a child has made a suicidal ideation statement to the school counselor. This is typically the trigger point for a risk assessment (as they may at imminent risk for harm to self or others).

In such situations a complete and thorough evaluation of the child is done. Effort is made to understand areas of strength and difficulties that have led to the child to experience such intense emotions. At the end of the evaluation a recommendation is provided to the school and family regarding next steps and safety plans.