MENTAL HEALTH AMERICA OF THE MIDSOUTH


Suicide Risk Assessment and Prevention in Older Adults

Suicide Prevention Training 

FREE Recorded Self-Paced Learning

Older adults face unique risk factors for suicide, including physical health challenges, cognitive changes, social isolation, and existential concerns. This presentation equips mental health professionals with practical tools to assess and address suicide risk in older adults through evidence-based screening, collaborative engagement, and culturally sensitive interventions. Presenters will highlight assessment strategies, treatment modalities, and care transition practices that promote safety, dignity, and resilience for this vulnerable population.

 



For accommodation requests and grievances or other questions about this course, please contact forinfo@MHAMidSouth.org.






OVERVIEW

COURSE
OBJECTIVES

This session will equip participants to recognize unique suicide risk factors in older adults, use validated assessment tools, and apply effective engagement strategies with clients and caregivers. Attendees will explore evidence-based treatment approaches, culturally sensitive practices, and best practices for transitioning care to ensure safety, continuity, and resilience in this vulnerable population
IDENTIFY suicide risk and protective factors unique to older adults, including physical health, cognitive changes, social isolation, and existential concerns.
EXAMINE ethical considerations and clinical challenges when addressing suicide risk in older adult populations
APPLY evidence-based treatment modalities and culturally sensitive approaches that promote safety, resilience, and dignity in care.
IMPLEMENT best practices for transitioning care, including discharge planning, warm handoffs, and ongoing support to ensure continuity and client well-being.

Thank you to our experts

Meet our Instructors

Carol Smith, LMFT

Carol Smith is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Tennessee, an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, and an ACPE Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy (SIP) Trainer. She serves as Insight Counseling Centers’ Director of Training and sees clients in Insight’s Franklin office and via telehealth. Her educational background includes a BA in Psychology and Biology from Mobile University, a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Master of Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca University.

Joshua Medeiros, LPC-MHSP

Joshua F. Medeiros is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in Tennessee who specializes in trauma. He earned his M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University and is a Certified Clinical Traumatologist (CCT). Joshua's therapeutic approach is grounded in several evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy. He is trained in advanced techniques such as S.A.F.E., EMDR, and Brainspotting. Additionally, he is a trained Gottman Method couples therapist and a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator and trainer, which allows him to work effectively with couples and families. With experience at Insight Counseling Centers and the Trauma & Therapy Center of Tennessee, Joshua has provided individual, group, and community mental health services. He has led initiatives to reduce the stigma of mental health care in underserved communities.


Monet Shell, LMFT

Monét C. Shell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Tennessee. As the Director of Clinical Services at Insight Counseling Centers, she represents racial diversity and works to increase representation by hiring and supporting clinicians from various backgrounds. She provides education and connection to both her team and the community.

As a therapist, Monét serves a diverse client base, with a focus on the Religious and Black American communities—groups historically underserved in mental health care. She helps clients rediscover their core identity through a collaborative, supportive approach. She strives to create a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can fully engage in healing and experience peace. With specialized training in conflict resolution, Monét assists clients in navigating both internal and external challenges.