The use of sustained empathic inquiry is illustrated within a brief vignette describing the treatment of a patient with a longstanding suicidal wish that became a plan. The patient, a 40-year-old male who was repeatedly abused sexually as a youth, became suicidal as he began to integrate painful affects associated with the memories of this trauma as part of treatment. An interpretation given in a session during the 9th month of treatment provided understanding that the patient had condensed the ending of his physical life and the metaphoric expression of relief from suffering and exploitation. The interpretation initiated a transformation of the patient's dreaded expectation of exploitation and provided the patient with a new beginning characterized by the expectation of responsivity and understanding to his inner life.