Before you read this, keep in mind that I'm open to editing or deleting my post if anyone finds it to be too off-base. PM me privately, please, and I'll modify or delete immediately if you wish...
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Actually, I am trying to see it from the T's point of view. There is the liability issue, sure. But, think about it. An ER staff is not emotionally attached to the suicidal person, and if someone is really determined, then nobody -- not a T, not an ER staff -- can stop them. However, your T is someone who knows you pretty well. It's their profession, yeah, but they are also human. Let's say you called your T when you're feeling suicidal, and they tried to talk you through it but in the end, failed at stopping you. Can you imagine how much that would mess with their head? I mean, suicide is EXCRUCIATINGLY PAINFUL for those left behind. In itself, it can cause PTSD. Our Ts are human beings with feelings. They do have professional training and an ethical responsibility to help, but our of consideration of their feelings, I don't know that I would contact my T. I'd much rather have an ER or hotline staff help me. I wouldn't want my T to suffer from my inability to cope.