Photo of Sharla Mize, Licensed Professional Counselor in 40511, KY
Sharla Mize
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40511  (Online Only)
People seek me out because they find their current situation intolerable - they are sick and tired of experiencing shame, intense anger, depression and anxiety. Perhaps they want to work on their addiction - the thing they use to numb the painful experiences. Their relationships are suffering as a result of their behaviors, being closed off, or "too much" for others. Many struggle with feelings of inadequacy, perfectionism and a deep sense of futility, which prevents them from taking charge of their lives and confidently pursuing their heart's desire.
People seek me out because they find their current situation intolerable - they are sick and tired of experiencing shame, intense anger, depression and anxiety. Perhaps they want to work on their addiction - the thing they use to numb the painful experiences. Their relationships are suffering as a result of their behaviors, being closed off, or "too much" for others. Many struggle with feelings of inadequacy, perfectionism and a deep sense of futility, which prevents them from taking charge of their lives and confidently pursuing their heart's desire.
(502) 443-9272 View (502) 443-9272
Photo of Stacy Springston, Counselor in 40511, KY
Stacy Springston
Counselor, EdD, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40511
In my 20-plus years in mental health, I have worked with individuals from ALL walks of life including prominent professionals, fellow clinicians, and a vast variety of others. This broad spectrum has taught me many valuable lessons, but one holds true; everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. In my experience, it is the client who recognizes a problem and is determined to correct it, who does the best in therapy. My primary goal is to meet you human to human in the most objective space possible. I can assure you a safe, confidential space with a compassionate ear.
In my 20-plus years in mental health, I have worked with individuals from ALL walks of life including prominent professionals, fellow clinicians, and a vast variety of others. This broad spectrum has taught me many valuable lessons, but one holds true; everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. In my experience, it is the client who recognizes a problem and is determined to correct it, who does the best in therapy. My primary goal is to meet you human to human in the most objective space possible. I can assure you a safe, confidential space with a compassionate ear.
(502) 316-7484 View (502) 316-7484
Rachael Chandler Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40511  (Online Only)
(859) 295-6989 View (859) 295-6989
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.