Development and Effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy integrated Counseling Program for Reducing Suicidal Ideation

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a counseling program called Motivational Interviewing-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Integrated Counseling Program (MICBT-CP) and evaluate its effectiveness in post-case management of individuals who have attempted suicide. Methods: Twenty-eight participants with a history of suicide attempts and high scores on Beck’s Scale for Suicidal Ideation were divided into three groups: an experimental group (EG), control group 1 (CG1), and control group 2 (CG2). Each group received different interventions: MICBT-CP for the EG, cognitive-behavioral treatment-based case management (CBT-CM) for CG1, and general case management (GCM) for CG2. Measurements of suicidal ideation, depression, hopelessness, problem-solving competence, life motivation, and perceived motivation were taken at baseline (T1), 6 weeks (T2), and 18 weeks (T3). Results: Significant improvements in life motivation, perceived motivation, and problem-solving competence were observed in the EG compared to CG1 and CG2. Moreover, the EG showed significant reductions in suicidal ideation, hopelessness, and depression. The treatment of CG2 with GCM did not yield significant results, indicating the limitations of current GCM in post-suicide attempt case management. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need for effective programs such as MICBT-CP and improved practitioner skills in post-suicide case management.