Intake Interviewing With Suicidal Patients: A Systematic Approach

Assessment and management of suicidal patients is one of the most challenging and stressful tasks associated with the practice of psychology. This article provides information on how to conduct suicide assessment interviews and initial patient management within the context of an intake interview. A brief review of professional training issues and suicide risk factors precede discussion of suicide assessment interviewing procedures. Strategies for evaluating depression, suicide ideation, suicide plan, self-control, and suicide intent are presented. General guidelines for initial management of and clinical decision making with suicidal patients are reviewed.