Photo of Edward Donald Flynn, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63124, MO
Edward Donald Flynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, ABS, MA, LPC, NBCCH, DBTC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63124
I am a nationally certified DBT therapist. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is my orientation and specialty. My orientation and personal experiences have inspired me to work toward the treatment of clients struggling with childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiousness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, relationship issues, LGBTQ concerns, NSSI(Self-Injury) and Borderline Personality Disorder.
I am a nationally certified DBT therapist. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is my orientation and specialty. My orientation and personal experiences have inspired me to work toward the treatment of clients struggling with childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiousness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, relationship issues, LGBTQ concerns, NSSI(Self-Injury) and Borderline Personality Disorder.
(314) 254-9322 View (314) 254-9322
Photo of Jason Eccker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 63124, MO
Jason Eccker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
Waitlist for new clients
As a social worker, my goal is to partner with my clients so that they may achieve their goals. I have a diverse background in treating trauma, addiction and mental health from a strengths-based perspective, and I have been successful in helping clients to integrate long-term solutions in their daily lives. I feel that my ability to create a strong therapeutic alliance with clients as one of my biggest strengths. For those suffering from PTSD/other past trauma, I offer EMDR therapy which continues to be researched as highly effective for individuals suffering from these conditions.
As a social worker, my goal is to partner with my clients so that they may achieve their goals. I have a diverse background in treating trauma, addiction and mental health from a strengths-based perspective, and I have been successful in helping clients to integrate long-term solutions in their daily lives. I feel that my ability to create a strong therapeutic alliance with clients as one of my biggest strengths. For those suffering from PTSD/other past trauma, I offer EMDR therapy which continues to be researched as highly effective for individuals suffering from these conditions.
(314) 696-6089 View (314) 696-6089
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.