Introduction to Joiner’s Interpersonal Theory of Suicide

Culturally Responsive • Trauma-Informed • Equity-Centered

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This 6-hour training offers clinicians a comprehensive and culturally responsive understanding of Thomas Joiner’s Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS). Participants will explore the three core constructs of the model—perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and acquired capability—and examine how these elements interact to shape suicidal ideation and behavior.

Grounded in trauma-informed, equity-centered, and relational practice, this training invites participants to consider how systemic oppression, cultural identity, and social conditions influence clients’ experiences of disconnection, belonging, and self-worth. Clinicians will learn to integrate the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide with culturally attuned, justice-oriented care that honors the complexity of clients’ lived experiences.

Through case studies, discussion, and experiential activities, participants will strengthen their ability to apply IPTS to suicide risk assessment, conceptualization, and intervention planning that centers both individual and community wellbeing.

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Training Format and Schedule

Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m. (PST) – includes a 1-hour lunch break
Location: Live via Zoom (synchronous online learning)
Format: Lecture, discussion, and experiential activities
CE Hours: 6

Participants must attend all portions of the training to receive CE credit.

Activities

  • Interactive case discussions

  • Decision Tree Role Plays

  • Hope Kit and Crisis Card creation

  • Reflective exercises connecting theory to clinical practice

Continuing Education (CE) Information

This program provides 6 Continuing Education (CE) hours in the following categories:

  • Suicide Risk Assessment & Intervention

  • Ethics

  • Multicultural and Anti-Oppressive Practice

  • Trauma-Informed Care

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify and explain

    the three primary constructs of Joiner’s Interpersonal Theory of Suicide.

  • Describe

    the interpersonal and systemic conditions that contribute to perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness.

  • Integrate

    IPTS concepts into clinical assessment and safety planning using a culturally responsive, anti-oppressive lens.

  • Apply

    the theory to case examples that reflect intersections of identity, culture, and community.

  • Design

    Hope Kits, Crisis Cards, and Commitment-to-Treatment Statements as tools for collaborative, dignity-centered intervention.

  • Differentiate

    between high-risk and chronic suicidality within a relational and systemic context.

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Accountability, Connection, Transformation

What sets my work apart is the integration of theory, ethics, and identity. I draw from research, lived experience, and years of teaching and supervision to make complex material accessible and relevant. Each cohort or audience receives a version of the training designed specifically for their context—so learning feels tailored, not generic.

Participants often describe my trainings as rigorous, relational, and real—spaces where learning feels alive, grounded, and sustaining.

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Aligned with Oregon Board requirements and consistent with ACA, AAMFT, and NBCC standards, this training offers a rigorous, reflective, and justice-oriented approach to supervision as a site of growth, healing, and systemic change. 

This training satisfies LPC + LMFT + LCSW - This training fulfills supervision requirements for Professional Counselor Associates and Marriage and Family Therapy Associates through the OBLPCT, and Clinical Social Work Associates through the OBLSW. It also includes the required Systems Supervision component specific to LMFT supervision.

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About Dr. Unique Page

Dr. Unique Page, Ph.D., LPC, NCC holds a Master’s in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling and a Ph.D. in Counseling and Counselor Education. Since 2016, she has been training, mentoring, and supervising counselors with a focus on culturally responsive, relational, and equity-centered practice.

Her work invites depth, reflection, and integrity—helping clinicians bring their full humanity into supervision and leadership. She believes supervision is both a professional responsibility and a relational practice that fosters accountability, authenticity, and care.

Through her private practice, UP Counseling & Consulting, Dr. Page partners with clinicians, organizations, and communities to cultivate supervision and leadership practices that strengthen competence, connection, and collective wellbeing.