Research shows that the vast majority of those in the US recognize the state of mental health in our country is spiraling, and many will have personal experience with someone who is struggling with their mental health. Missouri is consistently higher than the national rate on suicide deaths. We will discuss the need for self-care to support mental health and strategies to support individuals dealing with thoughts of suicide. These strategies will equip and empower individuals to learn how to assess for suicidal thoughts, refer an individual in crisis to treatment, and how to plan for long term management and support for these individuals. Participants will receive an attendance certificate for this session, verifying this continuing education for licensing purposes.
Learning Objectives
Learn how to support individuals who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide, both in immediate crises situations, and in long-term management preceding and following treatment.
Learn about initial suicide assessment, referrals for suicide treatment and ongoing management, and planning for mental health challenges.
William Dooley, MS, LPC, CBIS, Assistant Director of Mental Health Services, Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation
William has worked for Mo VR for 7 years and is housed in the Joplin District Office. He graduated in 2019 with his master’s in clinical psychology from Missouri State University and has current LPC licensure. He is a certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor from the Missouri Institute of Mental Health, working with others to bring information about mental health struggles and strategies to the state VR staff, as well as the local and state communities and any others who could benefit from this information (spoiler: that’s everyone!). William has 5 kids who are all in sports and activities, and therefore, he does not have any hobbies of note, although he enjoys jamming out and going to concerts from time to time. William always has a kazoo stashed in his car in case he needs to break out into music, and he loves to read fantasy books.