The Vital Process in Suicide Prevention: Group Psychotherapy as a Community of Concern

Most treatments of suicidal persons have involved treatment of individuals, specific to periods of crisis. The need for long-term insight-oriented groups for suicidal persons is supported by the literature. This presidential address (AAS, 1972) discusses the workings of such a group in Los Angeles, & illustrates, using examples, the effectiveness the group achieves by becoming a supportive community. Also described is a short-term drop-in group where clients have a chance to help each other. RM