Photo of 1st Priority Institute for Better Living, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80216, CO
1st Priority Institute for Better Living
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216
We know finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. We hope to make that easier. We pride ourselves on the ability to work with each person in a supportive and encouraging setting. We strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. Our clinicians are highly trained in a wide array of specialties. At 1st Priority Institute for Better Living the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow. We encourage you to dig deep and call today.
We know finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. We hope to make that easier. We pride ourselves on the ability to work with each person in a supportive and encouraging setting. We strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. Our clinicians are highly trained in a wide array of specialties. At 1st Priority Institute for Better Living the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow. We encourage you to dig deep and call today.
(720) 740-8949 View (720) 740-8949
Photo of Chris Woodward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80216, CO
Chris Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216
Waitlist for new clients
I believe we are here to discover, learn, and experience as much as possible in this short journey. As a seasoned and experienced Counselor, I take a holistic (comprehensive) approach in psychotherapy focusing on all parts of a person which includes the emotional, social, biological, environmental, spiritual/philosophical (meaning and purpose), and psychological components that make us whole. And if you are in need of psychiatric medications, I work with a Psychiatrist in the area and you will have access to this service.
I believe we are here to discover, learn, and experience as much as possible in this short journey. As a seasoned and experienced Counselor, I take a holistic (comprehensive) approach in psychotherapy focusing on all parts of a person which includes the emotional, social, biological, environmental, spiritual/philosophical (meaning and purpose), and psychological components that make us whole. And if you are in need of psychiatric medications, I work with a Psychiatrist in the area and you will have access to this service.
(720) 897-0246 View (720) 897-0246
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.