Photo of Boyce L Smith, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC, Counselor
Boyce L Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
(704) 703-3298 View (704) 703-3298
Photo of Amy O'Bryan, LCMHC, MEd, NCC
Amy O'Bryan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
My personal philosophy and approach to counseling begins and ends with compassion & a willingness to enter into my clients’ experiences alongside them. I became active in this field because I have an authentic, listening heart that desires to see people live as whole, healthy individuals. Areas of my practice include depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, peer & family relationships. With a master’s degree in education and experience working in schools, I also provide academic, social, and emotional support. Treatment plans are created based on the individuals' needs and combine evidenced based practices with personal wellness.
My personal philosophy and approach to counseling begins and ends with compassion & a willingness to enter into my clients’ experiences alongside them. I became active in this field because I have an authentic, listening heart that desires to see people live as whole, healthy individuals. Areas of my practice include depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, peer & family relationships. With a master’s degree in education and experience working in schools, I also provide academic, social, and emotional support. Treatment plans are created based on the individuals' needs and combine evidenced based practices with personal wellness.
(704) 270-5380 View (704) 270-5380
Photo of Pamela Poston, PhD, MA, LCMHC
Pamela Poston
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Not accepting new clients
Call for an appointment if you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, chronic illness, surgery preparation, prenatal or postpartum depression, relationship challenges, stress management, life skills, life transitions, insomnia, or want to create a healthier lifestyle. I blend Eastern philosophy with Western psychology in my holistic practice. If you have tried traditional therapy and have not found relief, I'd love the opportunity to help you become the best version of yourself. I regret to inform potential clients that I have been and continue to be on medical leave. I will update you when I can practice again. Thanks
Call for an appointment if you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, chronic illness, surgery preparation, prenatal or postpartum depression, relationship challenges, stress management, life skills, life transitions, insomnia, or want to create a healthier lifestyle. I blend Eastern philosophy with Western psychology in my holistic practice. If you have tried traditional therapy and have not found relief, I'd love the opportunity to help you become the best version of yourself. I regret to inform potential clients that I have been and continue to be on medical leave. I will update you when I can practice again. Thanks
(704) 946-5540 View (704) 946-5540
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.