ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Suicidal thoughts or suicidal ideation (SI), like the emotions that swirl around it, is a source of information. That perspective-altering declaration comes from my guest, Sally Spencer-Thomas, Ph.D. She's a brilliant, internationally recognized suicide prevention leader who lost her beloved brother to suicide. Sally urges cautious mental health professionals (and worried friends/family members tbh) to build their capacity for curiosity around suicide and SI.
Together, Sarah and Sally explore how clinicians can move beyond fear, liability, checklists, and the illusion of control toward compassionate curiosity, relationship, agency, and genuine human connection. They also explore grief, spirituality, continuing bonds with people who have died, and what it means for therapists themselves to be wounded healers.
In this episode:
-
Why suicidal thoughts and feelings can be valuable information
-
How fear and liability can interfere with the therapeutic relationship
-
Different patterns of suicidal intensity—and why one-size-fits-all intervention doesn't work
-
The importance of agency, nervous-system regulation, trust, and human connection
-
Why therapists' own lived experiences with suicidality deserve a place in the profession
-
Grief, continuing bonds, and Sally's experiences of her brother's presence after his death
Emerging models like polyvagal theory offer hope. But our ability to sit with what's uncomfortable may be our greatest source of preventative care.
Join the waitlist for the next Authentic Leaders Group!This is a journey of self-discovery and leadership mastery, where you'll not only enhance your leadership skills but also forge meaningful connections with fellow therapists who are committed to their own growth and the betterment of the therapy field. Apply now!
Thank you to The Therapist Network for sponsoring the show!The Therapist Network is a global community built by and for therapists. You'll find live consult groups, an ever-growing library of workshops and courses, plus a community that really sees you. Sarah's group, Tending to the Wounded Healer, meets every other Monday from 1–2pm CT, and it's a space to explore the intersection of your lived experience and your clinical work.
So if you want to feel more supported and less alone, visit TheTherapist.Network—or join Sarah's group directly at tinyurl.com/HealerConsultTTN.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Check the calendar for opportunities to connect with Sarah and earn CEs.
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Join our Patreon for gifts & perks
Shop our Bookshop.org store and support local booksellers
Share a rating & review on Apple Podcasts
***
Let's be friends! You can find me in the following places…
