A Pilot Study of Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality With Suicidal Children ("CAMS-4Kids")

The Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS-Jobes, 2006; 2016) is an evidence-based, therapeutic framework for addressing suicide risk in the adult population. CAMS-4Kids, the research intervention used in this study, is a 10-session developmentally-sensitive adaptation of CAMS for children ages 5 - 11 years old. Within the CAMS framework, clinicians treat patient-identified issues that contribute to their suicidal thoughts and/or behavior called "suicidal drivers." A "clinical road map" is provided through the Suicide Status Form (SSF) that guides treatment as an assessment, treatment planning, tracking and clinical outcome tool. Clinicians and children engage in the assessment and treatment planning sections of the SSF - Initial Form at the outset of treatment. A CAMS Stabilization Plan is also collaboratively developed which focuses on reducing access to lethal means, coping strategies, decreasing interpersonal isolation, and ways to address potential barriers to care. Subsequent CAMS-4Kids sessions include ongoing assessment and treatment plan reviews using the SSF - Interim Sessions Form. The CAMS Stabilization Plan is also reviewed and updated as clinically indicated. Treatment involves clinical interventions most appropriate to treat the patient's "suicidal drivers." Clinical interventions may include coping cards, "Hope Journal," behavioral activation, Virtual Hope Box, increasing social support, guided imagery, DBT relaxation skills, positive self-talk, and other cognitive-behavioral techniques. The conclusion of CAMS-4Kids occurs after 3 consecutive sessions of effectively managing suicidal ideation and behavior. The SSF Outcome/Dispositional Final Session Form is completed at the end of treatment.