Risk Assessment & Safety Planning

Service Description

Risk Assessment, Crisis & Safety Planning This continuing education training provides mental health professionals with the latest evidence-based knowledge and practical tools for suicide risk assessment and safety planning. The session begins with a review of current research on suicide, including national trends and Arizona-specific statistics, to contextualize the scope of the issue. Participants will then examine best practice approaches for identifying and responding to risk during intake and ongoing care. This includes the use of validated screening instruments such as the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), the SAMHSA SAFE-T framework, and the Ask Suicide-Screening Questions (ASQ) tool. Practical application of these tools will be emphasized, with guidance on integrating findings into clinical decision-making. The training also provides in-depth instruction on crisis response and safety planning strategies tailored to client risk profiles. Key elements include: the six essential components of an effective safety plan; the Stanley-Brown safety planning tool; guidance on engaging clients collaboratively in safety planning to enhance adherence and effectiveness; review of additional clinical and community-based resources to support ongoing safety and stabilization. By the end of this course, participants will be better equipped to conduct comprehensive suicide risk assessments, utilize evidence-based screening tools, and develop effective crisis and safety plans that promote client safety and resilience. Learning Objectives: 1. Review current research and statistics on suicide at both the national and Arizona level. 2. Identify validated tools for suicide risk screening and assessment. 3. Apply best practice approaches to crisis response and safety planning.