Self-Harming Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Marie Maciejko, Counselor, LCPC
Marie Maciejko
Counselor, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
I excel at building positive therapeutic rapports with children, adolescents, adults, and families presenting with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harming, mood lability, and impulsivity.
I've had the privilege to work with diverse populations that helped me grow as a clinician. My clients entered my office presenting with depression, anger, or anxiety. We came to discover the impact of trauma on daily functioning. My specialty to help my clients find and understand the “why” to emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to manage daily life.
I excel at building positive therapeutic rapports with children, adolescents, adults, and families presenting with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harming, mood lability, and impulsivity.
I've had the privilege to work with diverse populations that helped me grow as a clinician. My clients entered my office presenting with depression, anger, or anxiety. We came to discover the impact of trauma on daily functioning. My specialty to help my clients find and understand the “why” to emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to manage daily life.
(708) 497-9409 View (708) 497-9409
Photo of Debra Prichard-Hurt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Debra Prichard-Hurt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with clients who have depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and/or attempts, self-harming behaviors, relationship issues, divorce, marriage therapy, grief issues, domestic victims, substance use, anger management and adolescent/family issues.
Does life seem more complicated than it needs to be? Are the daily pressures of life, work, finances, children or relationships getting the best of you? Do you find yourself feeling sad, overwhelmed or anxious? Do you feel alone, abandoned, or invisible? Do you find yourself turning to alcohol or drugs to relax and forget your problems? Or does life feel so hopeless you’re thinking about checking out? If the answer is Yes, Call Debra today for a Free 15 minute consultation and appointment. Let me help you discover the hope and peace you’ve lost and bring more meaning back to your life.
I work with clients who have depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and/or attempts, self-harming behaviors, relationship issues, divorce, marriage therapy, grief issues, domestic victims, substance use, anger management and adolescent/family issues.
Does life seem more complicated than it needs to be? Are the daily pressures of life, work, finances, children or relationships getting the best of you? Do you find yourself feeling sad, overwhelmed or anxious? Do you feel alone, abandoned, or invisible? Do you find yourself turning to alcohol or drugs to relax and forget your problems? Or does life feel so hopeless you’re thinking about checking out? If the answer is Yes, Call Debra today for a Free 15 minute consultation and appointment. Let me help you discover the hope and peace you’ve lost and bring more meaning back to your life.
(815) 453-9153 View (815) 453-9153
Photo of Talia Farrell-Rosen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Talia Farrell-Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Chicago, IL 60614
I work with children, teens, young adults, and adults, specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, and management of high-risk, self-harming, suicidal, and impulsive behaviors.
My approach focuses on creating a supportive and empathetic environment for my clients. I provide full-fidelity comprehensive DBT as well as supportive DBT-informed psychotherapy.
I work with children, teens, young adults, and adults, specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, and management of high-risk, self-harming, suicidal, and impulsive behaviors.
My approach focuses on creating a supportive and empathetic environment for my clients. I provide full-fidelity comprehensive DBT as well as supportive DBT-informed psychotherapy.
(872) 328-5113 View (872) 328-5113
Photo of Kara Lessin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Lessin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chicago, IL 60603
Many of the people I see feel like the approaches they've been trying for the challenges of life aren't cutting it.
As a relational psychotherapist, I believe that nothing we experience or grapple with exists in a vacuum, and my sessions are informed by feminist, queer, and critical thought. With a career-long focus on trauma therapy, I also utilize acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive processing therapy (CPT).
Many of the people I see feel like the approaches they've been trying for the challenges of life aren't cutting it.
As a relational psychotherapist, I believe that nothing we experience or grapple with exists in a vacuum, and my sessions are informed by feminist, queer, and critical thought. With a career-long focus on trauma therapy, I also utilize acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive processing therapy (CPT).
(872) 326-1233 View (872) 326-1233
Photo of Amelia Harper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amelia Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that life has ups and downs which looks different to everyone and pain is something we all experience. I approach therapy with a strengths based approach and believe that even when people are struggling that have many strength that helped get them where they are today. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and my role is to support you non-judgmentally while helping you work towards the goals you choose. I am currently offering telehealth session and limited in-person sessions.
I understand that life has ups and downs which looks different to everyone and pain is something we all experience. I approach therapy with a strengths based approach and believe that even when people are struggling that have many strength that helped get them where they are today. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and my role is to support you non-judgmentally while helping you work towards the goals you choose. I am currently offering telehealth session and limited in-person sessions.
(872) 215-9788 x231 View (872) 215-9788 x231
Photo of Alesia Lacy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Alesia Lacy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I have worked with all age groups in the areas of anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, self-harming, chronic pain, relationship issues, anger management, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome. Have you been thinking about starting therapy for a while but feel overwhelmed by the idea of where to start? At whatever pace you are comfortable I am here to help you identify and prioritize your issues to begin managing and/or resolving the problems that are holding you back from thriving as your best self. My goal is to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental platform to help you become your own catalyst for self-empowerment. My counseling style is a client-centered strength-based approach that includes various treatment modalities depending on the client's needs and expectations.
I have worked with all age groups in the areas of anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, self-harming, chronic pain, relationship issues, anger management, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome. Have you been thinking about starting therapy for a while but feel overwhelmed by the idea of where to start? At whatever pace you are comfortable I am here to help you identify and prioritize your issues to begin managing and/or resolving the problems that are holding you back from thriving as your best self. My goal is to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental platform to help you become your own catalyst for self-empowerment. My counseling style is a client-centered strength-based approach that includes various treatment modalities depending on the client's needs and expectations.
View
Photo of Stefanya Jordan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, LCDC
Stefanya Jordan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, LCDC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to the first step towards finding your best and healthiest self! It Is my goal to help you create a space where you feel safe to explore those challenging feelings, thoughts, stressors, and triggers in an effort to show up to the life you deserve! Each time you step into my office it becomes Your Room and I am the visitor. I believe in taking a holistic wellness approach to therapy in an effort to personalize each clients therapy experience. I hope to build a therapeutic rapport where I am able to be authentically myself allowing each client to do the same.
Welcome to the first step towards finding your best and healthiest self! It Is my goal to help you create a space where you feel safe to explore those challenging feelings, thoughts, stressors, and triggers in an effort to show up to the life you deserve! Each time you step into my office it becomes Your Room and I am the visitor. I believe in taking a holistic wellness approach to therapy in an effort to personalize each clients therapy experience. I hope to build a therapeutic rapport where I am able to be authentically myself allowing each client to do the same.
(708) 773-8281 View (708) 773-8281
Photo of Boris Todorov - Primary Care Psychology Associates, Psychologist, PhD
Primary Care Psychology Associates
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Our mission is to facilitate cutting edge integration of behavioral health and medicine by promoting behavioral health across the lifespan through easy-access, an excellent team of psychotherapists, working in collaboration with primary and specialty medical providers.
Primary Care Psychology Associates is the premier provider of outpatient adult and pediatric psychological services in Central and Northern Chicagoland. We provide comprehensive pediatric (0-18) and adult psychological services, including psychological assessment, consultation, and psychotherapy (individual, couples, and family). Our locations are accessible and conveniently located close to major transportation hubs throughout the greater Chicago area.
Our mission is to facilitate cutting edge integration of behavioral health and medicine by promoting behavioral health across the lifespan through easy-access, an excellent team of psychotherapists, working in collaboration with primary and specialty medical providers.
Primary Care Psychology Associates is the premier provider of outpatient adult and pediatric psychological services in Central and Northern Chicagoland. We provide comprehensive pediatric (0-18) and adult psychological services, including psychological assessment, consultation, and psychotherapy (individual, couples, and family). Our locations are accessible and conveniently located close to major transportation hubs throughout the greater Chicago area.
(224) 479-1590 View (224) 479-1590
Photo of Megan Allegretti, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Megan Allegretti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
We will look at becoming more internally aware of systems that are not cutting it anymore for you, why those patterns evolved in the first place.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Megan Allegretti, and I am so proud of you for considering the incredibly difficult step of seeking mental health therapy. In an effort to make this process feel less intimidating, here are some things about me, to see if my approach is a solid fit for you. My approach works with the intention to aid in healing from the distress in your mental and emotional world. Often we create various behavioral patterns in life, that worked at some point, but now you notice them becoming maladaptive.
We will look at becoming more internally aware of systems that are not cutting it anymore for you, why those patterns evolved in the first place.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Megan Allegretti, and I am so proud of you for considering the incredibly difficult step of seeking mental health therapy. In an effort to make this process feel less intimidating, here are some things about me, to see if my approach is a solid fit for you. My approach works with the intention to aid in healing from the distress in your mental and emotional world. Often we create various behavioral patterns in life, that worked at some point, but now you notice them becoming maladaptive.
(224) 435-5085 View (224) 435-5085
Photo of Claudia Hernandez, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Claudia Hernandez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
I have worked with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual/relational violence, self-harming behaviors, grief, occupational stressors, relationship difficulties, and the exploration of one’s gender, sexual, or racial identity.
We are all works in progress and the world around us can steer us in the wrong direction. I strive to work with my clients to find the most rewarding path and the healthiest balance of one’s needs, through learning more about oneself, others, and the world around us. It is essential to find a therapist that makes you feel validated, respected, and acknowledged by honoring your intersectional identities. As such, I strive to embody this in the therapeutic approaches that I use with my clients to uniquely address their presenting concerns.
I have worked with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual/relational violence, self-harming behaviors, grief, occupational stressors, relationship difficulties, and the exploration of one’s gender, sexual, or racial identity.
We are all works in progress and the world around us can steer us in the wrong direction. I strive to work with my clients to find the most rewarding path and the healthiest balance of one’s needs, through learning more about oneself, others, and the world around us. It is essential to find a therapist that makes you feel validated, respected, and acknowledged by honoring your intersectional identities. As such, I strive to embody this in the therapeutic approaches that I use with my clients to uniquely address their presenting concerns.
(630) 523-8980 View (630) 523-8980
Photo of Ayna Kaur Virk, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Ayna Kaur Virk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
As an early clinician, I bring the latest in cutting-edge approaches while collaborating with seasoned professionals within our team.
I know that life is full of ups and downs and that the path to healing is not linear. Together, we’ll work on deepening your understanding of who you are while developing clarity of who you want to surround yourself with on your journey. My goal is to help you heal, confront your past, and empower you to reclaim your story. My own story as a South Asian woman, has built an understanding of the challenges that can come with our identities especially when balancing societal pressures and family expectations. I am experienced in supporting those facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, and identity issues.
As an early clinician, I bring the latest in cutting-edge approaches while collaborating with seasoned professionals within our team.
I know that life is full of ups and downs and that the path to healing is not linear. Together, we’ll work on deepening your understanding of who you are while developing clarity of who you want to surround yourself with on your journey. My goal is to help you heal, confront your past, and empower you to reclaim your story. My own story as a South Asian woman, has built an understanding of the challenges that can come with our identities especially when balancing societal pressures and family expectations. I am experienced in supporting those facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, and identity issues.
(773) 232-3474 View (773) 232-3474
Photo of Stephanie Liebl, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Stephanie Liebl
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
Stephanie believes that due to her being “such an awkward teenager,” she can easily relate to many of the struggles adolescents have as they are working through identity issues and increasing self-esteem, as well as mental health related issues such as anxiety, depression, and self-harming behavior.
Stephanie Liebl is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist. As an art therapist, Stephanie values being able to use creativity in her approach to working with clients. This can be literally using art supplies, but also helping clients look at their issues through different perspectives or experimenting with a variety of coping mechanisms. Stephanie also places a focus on building therapeutic rapport and creating a safe space for clients. She finds it is important to allow the client to work at their own pace to achieve their goals- no matter how long that takes.
Stephanie believes that due to her being “such an awkward teenager,” she can easily relate to many of the struggles adolescents have as they are working through identity issues and increasing self-esteem, as well as mental health related issues such as anxiety, depression, and self-harming behavior.
Stephanie Liebl is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist. As an art therapist, Stephanie values being able to use creativity in her approach to working with clients. This can be literally using art supplies, but also helping clients look at their issues through different perspectives or experimenting with a variety of coping mechanisms. Stephanie also places a focus on building therapeutic rapport and creating a safe space for clients. She finds it is important to allow the client to work at their own pace to achieve their goals- no matter how long that takes.
(773) 417-6342 x2003 View (773) 417-6342 x2003
Photo of Matthew Cramer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Matthew Cramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Drinking, using substances, gambling, self harm ( cutting, burning, more).
Matthew Cramer treats people struggling with: addictive use of substances or behaviors, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, job stress and the lasting impact of trauma. If you're considering therapy but aren't sure, then you've come to the right place. Most people who see Matthew have little to no experience with therapists or therapy. Many are uncomfortable asking for help, believing it is a sign of "weakness." Others come from families where "staying strong," and keeping "personal business" in the family was the norm. Whatever the story, they are able to open up to him.
Drinking, using substances, gambling, self harm ( cutting, burning, more).
Matthew Cramer treats people struggling with: addictive use of substances or behaviors, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, job stress and the lasting impact of trauma. If you're considering therapy but aren't sure, then you've come to the right place. Most people who see Matthew have little to no experience with therapists or therapy. Many are uncomfortable asking for help, believing it is a sign of "weakness." Others come from families where "staying strong," and keeping "personal business" in the family was the norm. Whatever the story, they are able to open up to him.
(773) 328-8720 View (773) 328-8720
Photo of Tessa Walk, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Tessa Walk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have several years of experience working with women, couples, and teens who are struggling with chronic low self-esteem, relationship struggles, and self-harming behaviors.
Hi, I’m Tessa—a Christian therapist who deeply understands the weight of chronic illness. As someone who’s walked through the ups and downs of my own health struggles, I’m passionate about helping others find peace, purpose, and freedom in the midst of pain. If you're facing body image battles, disordered eating, or relationship strains compounded by illness, you’re not alone. The world may demand perfection, but your worth isn’t measured by your health, productivity, or appearance—it’s anchored in Christ.
I have several years of experience working with women, couples, and teens who are struggling with chronic low self-esteem, relationship struggles, and self-harming behaviors.
Hi, I’m Tessa—a Christian therapist who deeply understands the weight of chronic illness. As someone who’s walked through the ups and downs of my own health struggles, I’m passionate about helping others find peace, purpose, and freedom in the midst of pain. If you're facing body image battles, disordered eating, or relationship strains compounded by illness, you’re not alone. The world may demand perfection, but your worth isn’t measured by your health, productivity, or appearance—it’s anchored in Christ.
(331) 343-4616 View (331) 343-4616
Photo of Leslie Crea-Kammerer, Psychologist, PsyD
Leslie Crea-Kammerer
Psychologist, PsyD
Chicago, IL 60657
I utilize cutting-edge tools, research, and treatment models to help my clients gain a better understanding of their problems and how to achieve their goals.
Modern life presents a number of challenges for adults and families. It can be difficult to balance all of the conflicting demands, especially if we are also trying to care for others or carrying the weight of past traumas or other unresolved issues. This can lead to increasing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger, and can interfere with the relationships we value and need. None of us are perfect, but we all deserve the chance to live a life consistent with our values and goals.
I utilize cutting-edge tools, research, and treatment models to help my clients gain a better understanding of their problems and how to achieve their goals.
Modern life presents a number of challenges for adults and families. It can be difficult to balance all of the conflicting demands, especially if we are also trying to care for others or carrying the weight of past traumas or other unresolved issues. This can lead to increasing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger, and can interfere with the relationships we value and need. None of us are perfect, but we all deserve the chance to live a life consistent with our values and goals.
(872) 231-3582 View (872) 231-3582
Photo of Jillian Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jillian Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60601
You've done what you can to manage your depression, anxiety, or addiction on your own yet what previously worked just isn't cutting it anymore.
I specialize in treating those experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction and more. I predominantly work with young adults and adults. My treatment focus has an emphasis on coping skills and acceptance with appropriate sarcasm and humor sprinkled in. Therapy with me will have you focused on the present moment and provide you with a renewed sense of self.
You've done what you can to manage your depression, anxiety, or addiction on your own yet what previously worked just isn't cutting it anymore.
I specialize in treating those experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction and more. I predominantly work with young adults and adults. My treatment focus has an emphasis on coping skills and acceptance with appropriate sarcasm and humor sprinkled in. Therapy with me will have you focused on the present moment and provide you with a renewed sense of self.
(312) 584-5103 View (312) 584-5103
Photo of Kimberlie (Kimi) Simms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kimberlie (Kimi) Simms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I have worked extensively with individuals facing chronic suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
Throughout our lives, we are taught how to be a good friend, a good family member, and to be kind and considerate to others. Unfortunately, people often are not taught how to be nice to oneself. As a therapist, I strive to assist clients in self-exploration and self-compassion and working towards self-acceptance. The real change starts with us as individuals. Once we start to take care of ourselves, and make those steps towards internal healing, there is a ripple effect towards improving our relationships with others. All parts of us are important, especially those parts of us we want to avoid and reject.
I have worked extensively with individuals facing chronic suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
Throughout our lives, we are taught how to be a good friend, a good family member, and to be kind and considerate to others. Unfortunately, people often are not taught how to be nice to oneself. As a therapist, I strive to assist clients in self-exploration and self-compassion and working towards self-acceptance. The real change starts with us as individuals. Once we start to take care of ourselves, and make those steps towards internal healing, there is a ripple effect towards improving our relationships with others. All parts of us are important, especially those parts of us we want to avoid and reject.
(773) 694-9370 View (773) 694-9370
Photo of Danielle Renyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Danielle Renyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I have experience providing support to individuals to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through life transitions or relationship issues, process abuse and neglect, and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming.
I take an empathetic and client centered approach to therapy, recognizing that it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to take the steps towards making positive changes in your life. I believe that all individuals have the tools to be successful in life and empower clients to use their strengths to make change. I value the therapeutic relationship and take a collaborative approach to working with clients.
I have experience providing support to individuals to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through life transitions or relationship issues, process abuse and neglect, and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming.
I take an empathetic and client centered approach to therapy, recognizing that it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to take the steps towards making positive changes in your life. I believe that all individuals have the tools to be successful in life and empower clients to use their strengths to make change. I value the therapeutic relationship and take a collaborative approach to working with clients.
(773) 694-8071 View (773) 694-8071
Photo of Amanda Kelleghan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MSIR
Amanda Kelleghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MSIR
Chicago, IL 60654
I specialize in working with females 16+ years of age on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harming behavior, and poor self esteem.
The constant pressures of daily life, particularly during a pandemic, can leave us feeling overwhelmed, scared, and alone. As we try to navigate our way through issues involving school, work, relationships, life transitions, and grief and loss, we may feel so hopeless that we feel as if we cannot go on like this anymore. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will provide support and guidance to help you identify unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you can make positive and sustainable changes to improve your quality of life.
I specialize in working with females 16+ years of age on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harming behavior, and poor self esteem.
The constant pressures of daily life, particularly during a pandemic, can leave us feeling overwhelmed, scared, and alone. As we try to navigate our way through issues involving school, work, relationships, life transitions, and grief and loss, we may feel so hopeless that we feel as if we cannot go on like this anymore. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will provide support and guidance to help you identify unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you can make positive and sustainable changes to improve your quality of life.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Judith Ierulli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Judith Ierulli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Judith Ierulli specializes in working with adult and teen survivors of sexual, physical and emotional trauma. Judith holds a deep knowledge of trauma and abuse and the profound ways it affects survivors and those closest to them throughout the life cycle. Judith provides a safe place for survivors to work through the impact of abuse on one's sense of self, sexual identity, sense of trust and relationships. She provides concrete tools to help survivors manage symptoms, and also works within a mind-body framework. Judith's expertise includes working with PTSD, CPTSD, Complex Trauma, dissociation and self-harming behaviors.
Judith Ierulli specializes in working with adult and teen survivors of sexual, physical and emotional trauma. Judith holds a deep knowledge of trauma and abuse and the profound ways it affects survivors and those closest to them throughout the life cycle. Judith provides a safe place for survivors to work through the impact of abuse on one's sense of self, sexual identity, sense of trust and relationships. She provides concrete tools to help survivors manage symptoms, and also works within a mind-body framework. Judith's expertise includes working with PTSD, CPTSD, Complex Trauma, dissociation and self-harming behaviors.
(847) 230-4295 View (847) 230-4295

See more therapy options for Chicago

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.