Reducing access to lethal means, such as firearms and medication, can determine whether a person at risk for suicide lives or dies. This webinar will explore how to reduce access to the methods people use to kill themselves. Discover who needs lethal means counseling and how to work with people at risk for suicide—and their families—to reduce access. Learn about what clients and families need to know, firearms laws relevant to mental health counseling, and what clinicians can do to increase safety with suicidal clients who have access to lethal means.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Explain at least two reasons why reducing access to lethal means can prevent suicide.
- Identify clients for whom lethal means counseling is appropriate.
- Describe counseling strategies for raising the topic of lethal means and increase confidence and skill in applying these strategies with clients.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Explain at least two reasons why reducing access to lethal means can prevent suicide.
- Group exercise – what is the correct answer?
- What is means restriction?
- Important considerations
- Two bridges case examples
- Lethal means restriction progression chart
Objective #2: Identify clients for whom lethal means counseling is appropriate.
- Daniel case study
- Ramon: How would you respond?
Objective #3: Describe counseling strategies for raising the topic of lethal means and increase confidence and skill in applying these strategies with clients.
- Process of lethal means counseling
- Open the door to conversation
- Communication examples
- Key questions to ask about lethal means
- Firearms safety
- Reducing overdose risk
- DBT skills for lethal means safety
- Video demonstration: Antonio
- LMC resources
- Q&A, resources
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW
Recording Date: May 29, 2025
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com