The document created from this template can be given or sent to a client at risk after a session that included safety planning interventions. It is a copy of a safety plan made with the client during that session. It is based on standard safety plan guidelines and format as provided by SAMHSA https://www.samhsa.gov/resource/988/safety-plan.
It includes additional resources to call, text, or visit online when in crisis: 988 Lifeline, Veterans Crisis Line, Trevor Project, and RAINN, Warmlines
Session Summary
Concise summary written directly to the client of what was discussed in the session using a warm tone. Highlights key topics, insights gained, emotions/themes that stood out, and focuses on how the client is feeling and what’s on their mind, using a warm tone.
Risk Summary
Written directly to the client summarizing the type of risk experienced (e.g. suicidal thoughts, urges to self-harm, harm from others), using a warm tone and non-alarming framing (risk is manageable with support). Notes what’s been making things feel harder right now, and any strengths or supports that help keep the client safe.
Safety Plan
Each section is written in the client’s own words.
1. Warning Signs
2. Internal Coping Strategies
3. People or Places That Provide Distraction
4. People I Can Ask for Help
5. Professionals or Professional Services to Contact
6. Making My Environment Safer
Crisis Resources
Static list crisis resources to call, text, or visit online when in crisis: 988 Lifeline, Veterans Crisis Line, Trevor Project, RAINN, Warmlines
Follow-Up
List any appointments mentioned (time, date, location) and agreed upon client or clinician
Closes with Brief, affirming, hopeful statement reinforcing strengths, support and options
Session Summary
Today we talked about how things have been feeling a lot harder over the past couple of weeks, especially since things got tense at home. You shared that you’ve been having thoughts of not wanting to be here, and that these thoughts tend to show up most at night when you’re on your own. You also spoke about how tired you’ve been feeling, both physically and emotionally, and how hard it’s been to keep up with things day to day. It was clear how much you’re carrying at the moment, and how much courage it took to talk about it openly.
Risk Summary
You shared that you’ve been having thoughts of suicide, particularly late at night, without a specific plan in mind. We talked about how the stress at home and the lack of sleep have been making these thoughts feel more intense. It’s completely understandable that things feel overwhelming right now, and it’s important to know that support is available and these feelings can ease with the right help in place. You mentioned that talking to your sister usually helps you feel less alone, which is a real strength to build on.
Safety Plan
1. Warning Signs
2. Internal Coping Strategies
3. People or Places That Provide Distraction
4. People I Can Ask for Help
5. Professionals or Professional Services to Contact
6. Making My Environment Safer
Crisis Resources
Crisis Line: Call or text 988, 988lifeline.org
Emergency: 911
Warmline Directory: https://www.warmline.org/directory
LGBTQ+ Hotline: Call 1-888-843-4564, Text START to 678-678
https://www.lgbthotline.org/
Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/
RAINN Online Hotline (sexual assault, global access): Call 1-800-656-4673 https://hotline.rainn.org/online
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, press 1, Text 838255
Chat at veteranscrisisline.net
NAMI HelpLine: Text NAMI to 741741
Follow-Up
We’ve booked a follow-up appointment for Tuesday at 2pm at 11 NovoNote Street, NovoPsych, Australia. You also agreed to call Dr Roberts this week to check in about your sleep.
Closing
You’ve shown real strength in talking about this today, and you don’t have to face it alone — with the people and support around you, things can and will feel more manageable.
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