Reducing Suicidal and Violent Behavior (part one)

Reducing Suicidal and Violent Behavior (part one)

with

Dale Starcher

In part one we will explore the different mental health factors behind student suicidal behavior, ways schools can screen and assess mental health concerns before they reach a crisis, and current programs that are being used for intervention. In part two (fall 2024) we will discuss specific counseling methods to use with students who have displayed or been screened for these behaviors.

Session Objectives:

• Understand different mental health conditions and causes of suicidal ideation and violent behavior
• Understand the school's role in screening, assessment, prevention, and intervention
• Understanding and applying evidenced-based counseling approaches (part two) and working with families and outside services

Bio

Dr. Starcher is a school psychologist and licensed psychotherapist. As an administrator for 18 years at a private special needs school for students with mental health struggles he developed or directed a range of therapeutic programs: PBIS, individual and group counseling program for all students, two ASD classrooms, SEL for elementary students, reintegration program for traumatic brain injury, and afterschool program for DDD, and was the head of the crisis intervention team. Dale is currently Director for the Center for Stress Control, a mental health clinic. He is trained across a wide range of treatment modalities. He is author of Mindfulness-Based Counseling for Self-Regulation. He is currently chair of the Professional Development Committee for NJASP which responsible for hosting this BeWell training initiative, and an adjunct professor at Rider University.