When Conversation Turns to Suicide is a 16-hour training based in the Alternatives to Suicide approach, and intended as an alternative to ASIST, QPR, and similar approaches that remain rooted in conventional medicalized systems. This training is open to providers, family members, peer supports, first responders, and anyone else who wants to learn how to offer support to someone who is suicidal.

“Alternatives to Suicide” is a harm reduction approach to suicide that was first articulated in Western Massachusetts in 2008 and has now spread throughout the globe. This overview will provide attendees with the history and philosophy behind this trauma-informed model. This approach has been developed by individuals with personal experience navigating thoughts of suicide and standard systems of care. This training will place particular emphasis on the unique experiences of LGBTQ folks who are struggling with thoughts of suicide. We explore concrete paradigm shifts that we can make in our work that can help us move from control to connection, from fear to curiosity. We tackle common misconceptions about the best way to engage with suicidal people and common misinterpretations of legal matters as they relate to suicide. There will be role play demonstration, exercises and conversation about the “Alternatives to Suicide” dialogue model, VCVC (Validation-Curiosity-Vulnerability Community)