Self-Harming Therapists in Washington, DC
If you're suffering from self harm, including cutting, bingeing, restriction, purging, or have OCD, my targeted approach is highly effective when you engage in the process.
For self harm and trauma, I practice a blend of ACT and DBT. ACT gives you a superpower of psychological flexibility to be able to form a different relationship with your thoughts and feelings, allowing you to have freedom from harmful behaviors. DBT provides the behavioral structure to do this. For OCD, I use a blend of ERP and I-CBT.
If you're suffering from self harm, including cutting, bingeing, restriction, purging, or have OCD, my targeted approach is highly effective when you engage in the process.
For self harm and trauma, I practice a blend of ACT and DBT. ACT gives you a superpower of psychological flexibility to be able to form a different relationship with your thoughts and feelings, allowing you to have freedom from harmful behaviors. DBT provides the behavioral structure to do this. For OCD, I use a blend of ERP and I-CBT.
Not sure of how to support your teen or young adult who is struggling with suicidal ideation, rapid mood shifts, treatment refusal, risk taking behavior, self-harming or hopelessness?
Do you often hear "You're so dramatic," "You're way too sensitive" or "Stop trying to manipulate me"? So often having big emotions means you may find yourself feeling alone, empty and blaming yourself for things that are difficult to control. You may even find yourself pushing people away and then feeling abandoned by them. Maybe you have even wanted to ask for help but felt you did not deserve any help at all? If this sounds like you, I'd like you to know that you do not have to do it alone. I am a fantastic team player and together we will explore new ways to cope, communicate and build a life with less pain and suffering.
Not sure of how to support your teen or young adult who is struggling with suicidal ideation, rapid mood shifts, treatment refusal, risk taking behavior, self-harming or hopelessness?
Do you often hear "You're so dramatic," "You're way too sensitive" or "Stop trying to manipulate me"? So often having big emotions means you may find yourself feeling alone, empty and blaming yourself for things that are difficult to control. You may even find yourself pushing people away and then feeling abandoned by them. Maybe you have even wanted to ask for help but felt you did not deserve any help at all? If this sounds like you, I'd like you to know that you do not have to do it alone. I am a fantastic team player and together we will explore new ways to cope, communicate and build a life with less pain and suffering.
Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right.
Dr. Hecker also specializes in helping people who are transitioning through separation and divorce, and she also assists business people in balancing their commitments to their busy work schedules and their personal lives.
Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right.
Dr. Hecker also specializes in helping people who are transitioning through separation and divorce, and she also assists business people in balancing their commitments to their busy work schedules and their personal lives.
I specialize in areas such as anger management, anxiety, depression, family relationships, gender identity, grief and bereavement, LGBTQIA+ support, life transitions, military and veteran support, multicultural and diversity issues, PTSD, intimate and romantic relationships, sex and intimacy issues, stress, suicidal ideation and self-harming, and trauma.
Hello, I'm Michelle Durham. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, and strength-based perspective. My approach is person-centered with an integrative aspect, meaning I tailor my methods to fit your unique needs and circumstances. I believe in the power of collaboration and coordination within cross-functional team environments to maximize the desired outcomes of your case plan. With over 15 years of experience in direct staff development, coaching, and supervision, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my private practice.
I specialize in areas such as anger management, anxiety, depression, family relationships, gender identity, grief and bereavement, LGBTQIA+ support, life transitions, military and veteran support, multicultural and diversity issues, PTSD, intimate and romantic relationships, sex and intimacy issues, stress, suicidal ideation and self-harming, and trauma.
Hello, I'm Michelle Durham. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, and strength-based perspective. My approach is person-centered with an integrative aspect, meaning I tailor my methods to fit your unique needs and circumstances. I believe in the power of collaboration and coordination within cross-functional team environments to maximize the desired outcomes of your case plan. With over 15 years of experience in direct staff development, coaching, and supervision, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my private practice.
Marjorie Jean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Maybe you're contemplating leaving a stressful job, moving to a new town, cutting ties with those who hurt you, and talking it all through in therapy, and while those steps have helped improve things, you noticed that the old patterns seem to be omnipresent.
My approach blends somatic processing, existential exploration, and storytelling through a decolonizing lens that honors your intersecting identities and lived experiences. Together, we’ll challenge dominant narratives, explore the stories that have shaped you, and find tangible solutions to help you live your most expansive self.
Maybe you're contemplating leaving a stressful job, moving to a new town, cutting ties with those who hurt you, and talking it all through in therapy, and while those steps have helped improve things, you noticed that the old patterns seem to be omnipresent.
My approach blends somatic processing, existential exploration, and storytelling through a decolonizing lens that honors your intersecting identities and lived experiences. Together, we’ll challenge dominant narratives, explore the stories that have shaped you, and find tangible solutions to help you live your most expansive self.
Brenda Edmonds – Addictions, Anxiety, Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Brenda Edmonds is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in DC that specializes in Addiction, Adoption, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Child & Parenting Needs, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities, Medication Management, Self-Harming, Stress, Trauma & PTSD, Mental Health, Mood Disorders, and many other areas. Brenda’s 20 years of clinical experience has been widely dedicated to working with children and adults experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
Brenda Edmonds is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in DC that specializes in Addiction, Adoption, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Child & Parenting Needs, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities, Medication Management, Self-Harming, Stress, Trauma & PTSD, Mental Health, Mood Disorders, and many other areas. Brenda’s 20 years of clinical experience has been widely dedicated to working with children and adults experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
Whether you're dealing with ADHD, anger management, antisocial behavior, anxiety, bipolar disorder, dementia, depression, family relationships, grief, intimate or romantic relationships, LGBTQIA+ support, life transitions, military or veteran support, multicultural or diversity issues, PTSD, stress, suicidal ideation, self-harming, or trauma
Hello, I'm Ariel. My goal is to empower you to achieve emotional wellness and personal growth through evidence-based approaches. As a Black therapist, member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and trauma survivor, I understand the importance of creating a space that is both inclusive and safe for all my clients. Inclusiveness and safety are essential components of effective care, and I am passionate about my work with marginalized communities. I aim to increase representation in these spaces to better serve the community.
Whether you're dealing with ADHD, anger management, antisocial behavior, anxiety, bipolar disorder, dementia, depression, family relationships, grief, intimate or romantic relationships, LGBTQIA+ support, life transitions, military or veteran support, multicultural or diversity issues, PTSD, stress, suicidal ideation, self-harming, or trauma
Hello, I'm Ariel. My goal is to empower you to achieve emotional wellness and personal growth through evidence-based approaches. As a Black therapist, member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and trauma survivor, I understand the importance of creating a space that is both inclusive and safe for all my clients. Inclusiveness and safety are essential components of effective care, and I am passionate about my work with marginalized communities. I aim to increase representation in these spaces to better serve the community.
Her Trauma Recovery Clinic practices with gentleness & compassion bringing cutting edge therapies to help free you from your past.
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
Her Trauma Recovery Clinic practices with gentleness & compassion bringing cutting edge therapies to help free you from your past.
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
Lukin Center for Psychotherapy- Bergen County
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
This dedication to the ongoing training of our staff enables us to provide our clients with the most cutting-edge and expert treatment available.
It’s actually rare that a Lukin Center therapist will utilize just one treatment modality to help a patient; just like most things in life, therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. With decades of training and experience, our clinicians use a personalized blend of proven techniques and modalities to help you reach your personal growth goals.
This dedication to the ongoing training of our staff enables us to provide our clients with the most cutting-edge and expert treatment available.
It’s actually rare that a Lukin Center therapist will utilize just one treatment modality to help a patient; just like most things in life, therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. With decades of training and experience, our clinicians use a personalized blend of proven techniques and modalities to help you reach your personal growth goals.
Specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression, I help people to understand the origins and purpose of their symptoms and to replace self-harming behaviors with healthy, effective coping strategies.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.
Specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression, I help people to understand the origins and purpose of their symptoms and to replace self-harming behaviors with healthy, effective coping strategies.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.
Our approach is integrative; we utilize the most effective, cutting-edge treatment approaches, guided by a humanistic perspective which emphasizes the importance of viewing each client as the unique individual that they are.
At Peak Wellness Group, we aim to help the Metropolitan DC community achieve peak levels of functioning and experience an enhanced sense of well-being through the delivery of quality psychological services. Prioritizing collaboration, convenience, and innovation, we strive to simplify the process of obtaining psychological wellness services and to deliver personalized, evidence-based care that considers each individual's needs, goals, and values.
Our approach is integrative; we utilize the most effective, cutting-edge treatment approaches, guided by a humanistic perspective which emphasizes the importance of viewing each client as the unique individual that they are.
At Peak Wellness Group, we aim to help the Metropolitan DC community achieve peak levels of functioning and experience an enhanced sense of well-being through the delivery of quality psychological services. Prioritizing collaboration, convenience, and innovation, we strive to simplify the process of obtaining psychological wellness services and to deliver personalized, evidence-based care that considers each individual's needs, goals, and values.
Meet Our Self-Harming Therapists
Welcome to my practice. I am a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist and I work with adolescents and adults in a warm, collaborative, and relational style. I am a generalist, with special interests in the treatment of depression, eating disorders, body image issues, as well as self-harming behavior and trauma. My practice focuses on helping individuals work through transitions in life, such as teen and young adult struggles, relationship issues, and parenting issues. I have launched a Menopause Info & Discussion Group to empower women with education and support during this life stage.
Welcome to my practice. I am a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist and I work with adolescents and adults in a warm, collaborative, and relational style. I am a generalist, with special interests in the treatment of depression, eating disorders, body image issues, as well as self-harming behavior and trauma. My practice focuses on helping individuals work through transitions in life, such as teen and young adult struggles, relationship issues, and parenting issues. I have launched a Menopause Info & Discussion Group to empower women with education and support during this life stage.
I believe you are the expert on your life. It is my job to guide you through the therapy process so that you may reach your desired outcomes. My clinical areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, identity, and LGBT+ concerns. The services I provide are rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I utilize multiple modalities in my practice, tailoring treatment to the needs of the client. I also use various techniques to help you reach your desired goals.
I believe you are the expert on your life. It is my job to guide you through the therapy process so that you may reach your desired outcomes. My clinical areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, identity, and LGBT+ concerns. The services I provide are rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I utilize multiple modalities in my practice, tailoring treatment to the needs of the client. I also use various techniques to help you reach your desired goals.
It's essential for you to feel understood by your therapist. I strive to create an environment characterized by safety, trust, mutual respect, and even humor. The bond we form allows you to take the emotional risks necessary for deep exploration and enduring change. I offer a free consultation to help you decide if we'd be a good fit. Please join me for a cup of tea to share your story, chart a course for how we might work together, and ask any questions about therapy and how I can help you.
It's essential for you to feel understood by your therapist. I strive to create an environment characterized by safety, trust, mutual respect, and even humor. The bond we form allows you to take the emotional risks necessary for deep exploration and enduring change. I offer a free consultation to help you decide if we'd be a good fit. Please join me for a cup of tea to share your story, chart a course for how we might work together, and ask any questions about therapy and how I can help you.
Restoration 1:99
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CDBT, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
The Counseling Center of Washington, DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The mission of the Counseling Center Group is to offer expert counseling therapy services delivered by experienced therapists with diverse specialties. Our approach is rooted in the belief that equipping clients with effective tools can enhance their daily lives. As a result, we strive to empower our clients to live their lives independently, without relying on prolonged therapy.
The mission of the Counseling Center Group is to offer expert counseling therapy services delivered by experienced therapists with diverse specialties. Our approach is rooted in the belief that equipping clients with effective tools can enhance their daily lives. As a result, we strive to empower our clients to live their lives independently, without relying on prolonged therapy.
Dawn Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I have been a psychotherapist in private practice for over 20 years. I see adults, children over 9 years old, adolescents and couples. I work from a relational model having completed a three year post graduate program with the Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis. Additionally, I am a graduate of ICP&P's couples program. I specialize in maternal mental health, teens and working with clients who identify as lgbtq. I see clients in Dupont Circle and Bethesda in-person and I see clients virtually. All new clients should be comfortable doing virtual work from time to time.
I have been a psychotherapist in private practice for over 20 years. I see adults, children over 9 years old, adolescents and couples. I work from a relational model having completed a three year post graduate program with the Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis. Additionally, I am a graduate of ICP&P's couples program. I specialize in maternal mental health, teens and working with clients who identify as lgbtq. I see clients in Dupont Circle and Bethesda in-person and I see clients virtually. All new clients should be comfortable doing virtual work from time to time.
Essential to my work is a belief that therapy is a sacred and intimate journey that you, as the client, invite me to walk alongside you. I am here to help you do the following: connect with your inner knowing and wisdom; enhance consciousness about the many layered factors contributing to who you are and the unique challenges you face; clarify your core values and life goals; & realize momentum forward on the path you choose.
Essential to my work is a belief that therapy is a sacred and intimate journey that you, as the client, invite me to walk alongside you. I am here to help you do the following: connect with your inner knowing and wisdom; enhance consciousness about the many layered factors contributing to who you are and the unique challenges you face; clarify your core values and life goals; & realize momentum forward on the path you choose.
Are you grappling with intense emotions or painful memories, navigating life transitions, or seeking a space for open conversation and self-discovery? Do you experience anxiety, tension, or overwhelm, or wonder why you feel irritable, tearful, or unable to enjoy your usual activities? In times of stress, people often withdraw, avoid, or adopt other unhealthy habits, only to find it makes them feel worse. You probably long for more effective ways to cope, handle your emotions, and work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Are you grappling with intense emotions or painful memories, navigating life transitions, or seeking a space for open conversation and self-discovery? Do you experience anxiety, tension, or overwhelm, or wonder why you feel irritable, tearful, or unable to enjoy your usual activities? In times of stress, people often withdraw, avoid, or adopt other unhealthy habits, only to find it makes them feel worse. You probably long for more effective ways to cope, handle your emotions, and work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Chris Quam Sherman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, ERYT200, CPT, GFI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
What if the things that always made you different (ie your neurodivergence, gender identity, sexual orientation) were not an indicator that you were wrong or broken? Who you are is a gift. You do not have to hide or become less of who you are. Through therapy we will uncover and use your unique strengths to move towards growth and healing.
What if the things that always made you different (ie your neurodivergence, gender identity, sexual orientation) were not an indicator that you were wrong or broken? Who you are is a gift. You do not have to hide or become less of who you are. Through therapy we will uncover and use your unique strengths to move towards growth and healing.
See more therapy options for Washington
Self-Harming Therapists
How does therapy for self-harm work?
A person may turn to self-injury so that they can distract themselves from their stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances. Therapy can address the cause of an individual’s suffering. A therapist can help a person understand why they may want to self-harm and help the person learn new methods of coping. A person may have poor emotion regulation, and treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is helpful for breaking this behaviour. In addition, treatment such as dialectical behavior therapy can help a person manage their tolerance of distress.
Which therapies are best for self-harm?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, and mentalisation-based therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are common approaches for people who have painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual cope with distress, regulate emotions, and manage impulsive urges.
Does the tendency to self-harm mean the person is suicidal?
Having this urge does not mean the individual suffers from suicidal ideation. People who want to self-injure look to distract or alleviate themselves from the pain they are experiencing. People with suicidal tendencies want to end life altogether. However, this does not mean a person with the intent to self-harm will not attempt suicide.
How often and how long are therapy sessions for self-harm?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Clients may see improvement within 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, maybe, a six-month period. People, especially those with co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety, may need to continue therapy for up to 12 to 18 months.