Is Suicidal Behavior Being Effectively Assessed and Managed?

In his review of Suicidal Behavior by Richard McKeon, Marc Hillbrand notes the call for "solid foundational training in the assessment and management of suicidal behavior, on-going continuing education on suicidality, along with supervision and consultation (Maris, Berman, Silverman, Bongar, 2000)."

In your opinion, what does "solid foundational training in the assessment and management of suicidal behavior" consist of? To what extent are PhD and PsyD programs preparing psychologists to address this issue in professional practice?

Read the Review

Saving Lives
By Marc Hillbrand
      PsycCRITIQUES, 2009 Vol 54(29)

Comments

[Dr.T]

Just a brief commment:

From personal experience, PsyD and PhD as well as Master's programs in psychology or counseling are not providing adequate programs, classes, workshops, etc. that can help prepare students for or even enlighten to understanding suicidal behavior. I think it is becoming more obvious that psychology has much developing to do. While we are beginning to focus exclusively on integrating cultural norms, standards, and ways of life of particular cultures into graduate classes and programs, we are forgetting to incorporate an understanding of suicidal behavior, the stigma associated with mental illness, or such things as criminals and mental illnesss and how they are receiving mediocre treatment.

Psychology programs still have work to do in properly training students and preparing them for their future profession. It is unfortunate that once students meet a certain criteria such as good grades, a good vita, etc., they are deemed "experienced." I'm not all too sure this tag should apply because they/we are not receiving a well-rounded education on the various aspects of psychology.

Most times we have to learn by experience following graduate school or by personally researching ourselves.