CALM: Counseling on Access to Lethal Means

Reducing access to lethal means, such as firearms and medication, can determine whether a person at risk for suicide lives or dies. This free online course focuses on how to reduce access to the methods people use to kill themselves. It covers how to: (1) identify people who could benefit from lethal means counseling, (2) ask about their access to lethal methods, and (3) work with them—and their families—to reduce access.

While this course is primarily designed for mental health professionals, others who work with people at risk for suicide, like social service professionals and health care providers, may also benefit from taking it.

Handouts for this course include the following:

The Basics of Firearms

What Clients and Families Need to Know

Clients Who Need Lethal Means Counseling

Firearms Laws Relevant to Lethal Means Counseling

What Clinicians Can Do