The Clinician Experience of Treating Suicidal Patients

Abstract

This Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) study explored the experiences of psychologists who treat suicidal patients. This study asked questions about how clinicians describe their experiences of treating suicidal patients and what meaning clinicians make of their experiences in treating suicidal patients. Participants included five psychologists licensed in the state of California, in practice for no less than five years, who were actively practicing in the greater Los Angeles area, and who had experience treating at least one suicidal patient. Data collection was conducted via semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using a process of deep engagement with participant interviews. The findings of this study include superordinate themes identified through the analysis, such as Training, Treatment, Countertransference, and Self Care. The study elucidated the meaning that clinicians make of their experiences of treating suicidal patients. Further research into treatment approaches that clinicians use to treat suicidal patients will be shared.