The Family Counseling Center is proud to participate in Cohort 3 of New York State’s Zero Suicide Initiative, a statewide effort designed to improve suicide prevention practices across Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics.
Working alongside the New York State Office of Mental Health (link https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/suicide_prevention/) and the Suicide Prevention Center of New York (link Home – NYS Office of Mental Health’s Suicide Prevention Center), we are implementing a comprehensive, evidence-based framework that integrates suicide prevention into every level of care. Through this initiative, we are strengthening our systems, supporting our workforce, and enhancing services for individuals at risk of suicide.
What is Zero Suicide?
Zero Suicide is a transformative approach to suicide prevention within healthcare and behavioral health systems. Rather than viewing suicide prevention as the responsibility of a single provider or program, Zero Suicide creates an organization-wide commitment to safer, more effective care for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
The initiative is built on the belief that suicide deaths among individuals receiving care are preventable when healthcare systems adapt comprehensive, evidence-based practices and continuous quality improvement.
As a participating CCBHC, the Family Counseling Center is working toward three key objectives:
The Seven Elements of Zero Suicide
A dedicated Zero Suicide Implementation Team has been established to guide the initiative throughout the grant period.
The team is responsible for coordinating implementation efforts, monitoring progress, and ensuring accountability across the organization.
Oversight Steering Council Includes:
- Organizational leadership
- Crisis and Emergency Services Representatives
- Primary Care Providers
- Behavioral Health Professionals
- Individuals with Lived Experience
A Statewide Partnership
The Family Counseling Center receives training, guidance, technical assistance, and implementation support from the New York State Office of Mental Health and the Suicide Prevention Center of New York.
Together, we are building a stronger, more responsive system of care for our community.
Looking Ahead
The implementation of Zero Suicide represents an important investment in the future of behavioral healthcare in our region. By strengthening systems, expanding staff training, improving care transitions, and embedding suicide prevention into every level of service, we are creating a safer and more supportive experience for those who turn to us for help.
Every life matters. Every connection matters. Every opportunity to provide support matters.