Crawford County Mental Health Center (CCMHC) is continuing to strengthen the way we support individuals experiencing mental health crises by implementing an evidence-based practice, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Suicide Prevention (CBT-SP). This specialized approach enhances our ability to provide focused, effective care to individuals who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Suicide remains a significant public health concern, impacting individuals, families, and communities across the nation. Recognizing the complexity of suicidal ideation, CCMHC is committed to utilizing approaches that are proven to reduce risk and improve outcomes. To date, 31 CCMHC staff members have completed training in CBT-SP, expanding our internal capacity to deliver this targeted intervention across multiple service areas.
CBT for Suicide Prevention builds upon traditional cognitive behavioral therapy by incorporating suicide-specific strategies designed to address the unique challenges associated with suicidal thinking. This approach helps individuals identify emotional pain, recognize unhelpful or distorted thought patterns, and develop practical coping skills to manage distress more safely. By addressing the underlying factors that contribute to suicidal ideation, CBT-SP focuses on prevention before a crisis escalates, supporting individuals in building resilience and hope (Elevate Continuing Education, 2024).
Implementing CBT-SP also reinforces CCMHC’s broader commitment to providing trauma-informed, client-centered care. Staff training emphasizes collaboration, safety planning, and ongoing assessment, ensuring that individuals receiving services feel supported, heard, and empowered throughout their treatment journey.
In addition to expanding evidence-based clinical practices, CCMHC continues to provide comprehensive crisis services for individuals of any age who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Trained mental health professionals and crisis staff are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assess risk, provide stabilization, and help connect individuals and families to the support they need in the least restrictive environment.
If you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health crisis, support is available by calling or texting 988, or by contacting the local Crisis Save Line at 620-232-SAVE (7283).
This important initiative was made possible through the generosity of the Future Fund Grant, administered by the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK). Their support helped fund our project, “Finding the Light: Suicide Prevention,” enabling CCMHC to invest in specialized training that directly strengthens client care and crisis response.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas for their continued commitment to strengthening mental health services in our region. CFSEK manages charitable funds established by donors who are passionate about giving back and improving the quality of life for individuals and families throughout Southeast Kansas and beyond. These grants provide critical resources that allow organizations like CCMHC to expand access to effective, life-saving services.
To learn more about the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas and the impact of their work, visit southeastkansas.org or call 620-231-8897.