An Integrative Conceptual Framework for Assessing and Treating Suicidal Behavior in Adolescents

Suicidal adolescents represent a uniquely demanding clinical population. The existing standards of care demand a relatively broad & integrative approach with multiple & specific treatment targets as well as ongoing & repeated risk assessment. This article provides an integrative conceptual framework for these tasks in day-to-day clinical practice with essentially 2 goals: to provide a summary of therapeutic & assessment tasks consistent with existing standards of care & supported by empirical findings, & to emphasize the varied roles, tasks, demands, & limitations of psychotherapy with suicidal adolescents. (25 refs.)