Exploring Lived Experiences of Existentially-Informed Counselors Working with Suicidal Adolescents
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D)
Department
Counseling
Date of Award
Fall 2024
Abstract
Adolescence is a developmental period marked by significant change, often accompanied by emotional and psychological turbulence. With increasing frequency, adolescents are turning toward suicide amidst their emotional difficulties. Mental health counseling acts as a primary force in preventing adolescent suicide. Little research exists regarding the application of existentially-informed counseling approaches when applied to adolescent suicidality. This study conducted semi-structured interviews with five licensed counselors who utilized existentially-informed counseling with suicidal adolescents. Four of the participant interviews were considered during data analysis. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to identify three major themes from the data, (a) balancing safety with existential concepts, (b) an existential connection: human-to-human engagement, (c) ability to manage counselor emotional response. The findings reinforce the need to adapt the crisis intervention model for suicidality, the significance of counselors engaging with adolescents on a human-to-human level, as well as the need for continued support of counselors’ emotional management.
Advisor
LaVelle Hendricks
Subject Categories
Counseling Psychology | Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Recommended Citation
Riddel, Jonathan, "Exploring Lived Experiences of Existentially-Informed Counselors Working with Suicidal Adolescents" (2024). Electronic Theses & Dissertations. 1243.
https://digitalcommons.tamuc.edu/etd/1243
