To close this series on training interns, I want to address the issue of suicidal counselees. (Obviously there are other crises an intern may encounter but I'll focus on counselees who pose a danger to themselves.) It's inevitable during the year that an intern will have a suicidal counselee. Learning how to assess and manage the risk of such a situation is a critical aspect of training.
Probably the most important thing I stress is, "Be willing to ask your counselees whether they have thought about suicide." This is particularly critical in counselees with depression, severe anxiety, or fluctuating moods. It is a myth that asking someone about suicidal thoughts can give that person the idea. But the opposite is true—not asking someone initially or not following up on a passing comment that indicates risk is a problem. Invariably, counselees who have had suicidal thoughts are thankful that their counselor has raised the issue. Doing so is an act of loving care.
