Self-Harming Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Deborah P Hecker, Counselor in Washington, DC
Deborah P Hecker
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
(202) 410-2671 View (202) 410-2671
Photo of Brenda Edmonds – Addictions, Anxiety, Depression, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Brenda Edmonds – Addictions, Anxiety, Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Brenda Edmonds is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in DC that specializes in Addiction, Adoption, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Child & Parenting Needs, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities, Medication Management, Self-Harming, Stress, Trauma & PTSD, Mental Health, Mood Disorders, and many other areas. Brenda’s 20 years of clinical experience has been widely dedicated to working with children and adults experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
Brenda Edmonds is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in DC that specializes in Addiction, Adoption, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Child & Parenting Needs, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities, Medication Management, Self-Harming, Stress, Trauma & PTSD, Mental Health, Mood Disorders, and many other areas. Brenda’s 20 years of clinical experience has been widely dedicated to working with children and adults experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
(202) 998-4725 View (202) 998-4725
Photo of Healthy Living Counseling Center, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Healthy Living Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Her Trauma Recovery Clinic practices with gentleness & compassion bringing cutting edge therapies to help free you from your past.
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
Her Trauma Recovery Clinic practices with gentleness & compassion bringing cutting edge therapies to help free you from your past.
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
(847) 423-8223 View (847) 423-8223
Photo of Robyn B Miller, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Robyn B Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Welcome to my practice. I am a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist and I work with adolescents and adults in a warm, collaborative, and relational style. I am a generalist, with special interests in the treatment of depression, eating disorders, body image issues, as well as self-harming behavior and trauma. My practice focuses on helping individuals work through transitions in life, such as teen and young adult struggles, relationship issues, and parenting issues. I have launched a Menopause Info & Discussion Group to empower women with education and support during this life stage.
Welcome to my practice. I am a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist and I work with adolescents and adults in a warm, collaborative, and relational style. I am a generalist, with special interests in the treatment of depression, eating disorders, body image issues, as well as self-harming behavior and trauma. My practice focuses on helping individuals work through transitions in life, such as teen and young adult struggles, relationship issues, and parenting issues. I have launched a Menopause Info & Discussion Group to empower women with education and support during this life stage.
(301) 656-5111 View (301) 656-5111
Photo of Stefanie Gilbert, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Stefanie Gilbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
People can experience relief from anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors by changing the way they respond to stressful and overwhelming situations.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.
People can experience relief from anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors by changing the way they respond to stressful and overwhelming situations.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.
(240) 202-1838 View (240) 202-1838
Photo of Peak Wellness Group in Washington, DC
Peak Wellness Group
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20057
Our approach is integrative; we utilize the most effective, cutting-edge treatment approaches, guided by a humanistic perspective which emphasizes the importance of viewing each client as the unique individual that they are.
At Peak Wellness Group, we aim to help the Metropolitan DC community achieve peak levels of functioning and experience an enhanced sense of well-being through the delivery of quality psychological services. Prioritizing collaboration, convenience, and innovation, we strive to simplify the process of obtaining psychological wellness services and to deliver personalized, evidence-based care that considers each individual's needs, goals, and values.
Our approach is integrative; we utilize the most effective, cutting-edge treatment approaches, guided by a humanistic perspective which emphasizes the importance of viewing each client as the unique individual that they are.
At Peak Wellness Group, we aim to help the Metropolitan DC community achieve peak levels of functioning and experience an enhanced sense of well-being through the delivery of quality psychological services. Prioritizing collaboration, convenience, and innovation, we strive to simplify the process of obtaining psychological wellness services and to deliver personalized, evidence-based care that considers each individual's needs, goals, and values.
(571) 200-4478 View (571) 200-4478
Photo of Lukin Center for Psychotherapy- Bergen County, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lukin Center for Psychotherapy- Bergen County
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001
As one of the largest psychotherapy practices in Northern New Jersey, Lukin Center offers you or your loved one more options and therapy modalities so you can find the best clinician and treatment for you. Our clinicians practice at the top of their fields, with many specializing in specific age groups, life stages, or relationships. In order to bring the highest quality, evidence-based services to our clients, we truly live by the power of life-long learning. This dedication to the ongoing training of our staff enables us to provide our clients with the most cutting-edge and expert treatment available.
As one of the largest psychotherapy practices in Northern New Jersey, Lukin Center offers you or your loved one more options and therapy modalities so you can find the best clinician and treatment for you. Our clinicians practice at the top of their fields, with many specializing in specific age groups, life stages, or relationships. In order to bring the highest quality, evidence-based services to our clients, we truly live by the power of life-long learning. This dedication to the ongoing training of our staff enables us to provide our clients with the most cutting-edge and expert treatment available.
(201) 701-3902 View (201) 701-3902
Photo of Restoration 1:99, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Restoration 1:99
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CDBT, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
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Photo of Suzanne Miller Friedman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Suzanne Miller Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
It's essential for you to feel understood by your therapist. I strive to create an environment characterized by safety, trust, mutual respect, and even humor. The bond we form allows you to take the emotional risks necessary for deep exploration and enduring change. I offer a free consultation to help you decide if we'd be a good fit. Please join me for a cup of tea to share your story, chart a course for how we might work together, and ask any questions about therapy and how I can help you.
It's essential for you to feel understood by your therapist. I strive to create an environment characterized by safety, trust, mutual respect, and even humor. The bond we form allows you to take the emotional risks necessary for deep exploration and enduring change. I offer a free consultation to help you decide if we'd be a good fit. Please join me for a cup of tea to share your story, chart a course for how we might work together, and ask any questions about therapy and how I can help you.
(202) 301-3529 View (202) 301-3529
Photo of The Counseling Center Group, Washington DC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
The Counseling Center Group, Washington DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
The mission of the Counseling Center Group is to offer expert counseling therapy services delivered by experienced therapists with diverse specialties. Our approach is rooted in the belief that equipping clients with effective tools can enhance their daily lives. As a result, we strive to empower our clients to live their lives independently, without relying on prolonged therapy.
The mission of the Counseling Center Group is to offer expert counseling therapy services delivered by experienced therapists with diverse specialties. Our approach is rooted in the belief that equipping clients with effective tools can enhance their daily lives. As a result, we strive to empower our clients to live their lives independently, without relying on prolonged therapy.
(301) 900-3642 View (301) 900-3642
Photo of Kristel C. Roberts, Counselor in Washington, DC
Kristel C. Roberts
Counselor, MS, LGPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Life is like your favorite card game. Sometimes you are dealt a good hand, and sometimes you are dealt a bad hand. How you play that hand determines the outcome. If life has gotten difficult for you and you need help sorting through and coping with the challenges that you have been facing, please contact me. Together, we can explore and identify the issues that have led to your depression, anxiety, stress, feelings of hopelessness, trauma, relationship challenges, post-traumatic stress, grief, loss, life transitions, and any other obstacles you face.
Life is like your favorite card game. Sometimes you are dealt a good hand, and sometimes you are dealt a bad hand. How you play that hand determines the outcome. If life has gotten difficult for you and you need help sorting through and coping with the challenges that you have been facing, please contact me. Together, we can explore and identify the issues that have led to your depression, anxiety, stress, feelings of hopelessness, trauma, relationship challenges, post-traumatic stress, grief, loss, life transitions, and any other obstacles you face.
(202) 953-5678 View (202) 953-5678
Photo of Elissa Gross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Elissa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
(202) 831-0229 View (202) 831-0229
Photo of Meme Rhee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Meme Rhee
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
As a certified psychoanalyst, I specialize in treating teens and adults who struggle with depression; intense anxiety; obsessive-compulsive symptoms including invasive, disturbing thoughts; intolerable, painful emotions; high-conflict relationships; impulsive behaviors including suicidal and self-injurious behavior; substance and/or alcohol abuse; eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Our collaboration strives to help you find internal harmony. My method of investigation of the mind is designed to help you gain clarity in your thinking, achieve emotional containment and experience self-empowerment.
As a certified psychoanalyst, I specialize in treating teens and adults who struggle with depression; intense anxiety; obsessive-compulsive symptoms including invasive, disturbing thoughts; intolerable, painful emotions; high-conflict relationships; impulsive behaviors including suicidal and self-injurious behavior; substance and/or alcohol abuse; eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Our collaboration strives to help you find internal harmony. My method of investigation of the mind is designed to help you gain clarity in your thinking, achieve emotional containment and experience self-empowerment.
(202) 946-7632 View (202) 946-7632
Photo of Andie Chilson, Counselor in Washington, DC
Andie Chilson
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Hi, I’m Andie! I’m a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in DC offering services to adolescents and adults of all genders. My areas of expertise include eating disorders, body image challenges, anxiety, stress, and trauma. I have seen what it looks like when someone has had their life overrun by an eating disorder, chronic stress, or unresolved trauma. I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they do the incredibly challenging work of reclaiming their lives to live in accordance with their own values.
Hi, I’m Andie! I’m a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in DC offering services to adolescents and adults of all genders. My areas of expertise include eating disorders, body image challenges, anxiety, stress, and trauma. I have seen what it looks like when someone has had their life overrun by an eating disorder, chronic stress, or unresolved trauma. I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they do the incredibly challenging work of reclaiming their lives to live in accordance with their own values.
(202) 556-3614 View (202) 556-3614
Photo of James U. DeFrancis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
James U. DeFrancis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In today’s stressful and uncertain world, each of us can experience challenges with anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and low self-esteem. I work to provide my clients with a safe, affirming, non-judgmental space to work through these challenges on their journeys to wellness and fulfillment. I support my clients as they find healing from trauma, develop meaningful relationships, achieve their life goals, and come to celebrate their truest, deepest selves.
In today’s stressful and uncertain world, each of us can experience challenges with anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and low self-esteem. I work to provide my clients with a safe, affirming, non-judgmental space to work through these challenges on their journeys to wellness and fulfillment. I support my clients as they find healing from trauma, develop meaningful relationships, achieve their life goals, and come to celebrate their truest, deepest selves.
(202) 873-9292 View (202) 873-9292
Photo of Megan Munzert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Megan Munzert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Healing and change are possible for all of us. I am reminded daily of people's innate ability to mend and grow if they are provided with the right tools in a supportive and compassionate environment. Past traumatic events can leave scars and behavior patterns that can get in the way of people leading the life that they choose. I create a safe space where we can work together to allow scars to heal and transformative change to take place. My clients experience healing from sexual trauma, adverse life events, relationship issues, and dissociative symptoms. They find freedom from feeling "stuck".
Healing and change are possible for all of us. I am reminded daily of people's innate ability to mend and grow if they are provided with the right tools in a supportive and compassionate environment. Past traumatic events can leave scars and behavior patterns that can get in the way of people leading the life that they choose. I create a safe space where we can work together to allow scars to heal and transformative change to take place. My clients experience healing from sexual trauma, adverse life events, relationship issues, and dissociative symptoms. They find freedom from feeling "stuck".
(202) 759-2690 View (202) 759-2690
Photo of Nina Van Sant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nina Van Sant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Currently accepting patients for psychoanalysis. It's normal to struggle at various times in life. Maybe a recent loss or an ongoing feeling strains your capacities or relationships. Talking with a trained professional helps. My type of working with people goes beyond symptom relief. I listen closely to build understanding. This understanding can inform new ways in which you see yourself.
Currently accepting patients for psychoanalysis. It's normal to struggle at various times in life. Maybe a recent loss or an ongoing feeling strains your capacities or relationships. Talking with a trained professional helps. My type of working with people goes beyond symptom relief. I listen closely to build understanding. This understanding can inform new ways in which you see yourself.
(202) 257-9094 View (202) 257-9094
Photo of Lauren Finney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lauren Finney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I view therapy as an opportunity for every person to have a confidential, supportive, and guided experience towards personal growth and facing life’s unending challenges. My style of therapy is very much like my personality: down to earth, humble, funny, compassionate, slightly sarcastic, direct, and blunt in a loving way. I have a sense of humor about myself, and I encourage my clients to adopt the same attitude. Each client who walks into my office comes with a unique history of experiences. To personalize treatment I use a combination of evidence-based therapeutic techniques to best support, explore, interpret, and solve.
I view therapy as an opportunity for every person to have a confidential, supportive, and guided experience towards personal growth and facing life’s unending challenges. My style of therapy is very much like my personality: down to earth, humble, funny, compassionate, slightly sarcastic, direct, and blunt in a loving way. I have a sense of humor about myself, and I encourage my clients to adopt the same attitude. Each client who walks into my office comes with a unique history of experiences. To personalize treatment I use a combination of evidence-based therapeutic techniques to best support, explore, interpret, and solve.
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Photo of Tiffany Jerinsky, Counselor in Washington, DC
Tiffany Jerinsky
Counselor, MS, LGPC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am a counselor with years of experience working with clients who are managing depression, anxiety, and chronic illnesses. I have specialized training in working with those who experience interpersonal violence and sexual assault/abuse. When an individual survives a trauma or hardship it can be extremely difficult to cope and obtain fulfillment. Whatever the struggle is I believe in helping clients identify their strengths in order to overcome the obstacle.
I am a counselor with years of experience working with clients who are managing depression, anxiety, and chronic illnesses. I have specialized training in working with those who experience interpersonal violence and sexual assault/abuse. When an individual survives a trauma or hardship it can be extremely difficult to cope and obtain fulfillment. Whatever the struggle is I believe in helping clients identify their strengths in order to overcome the obstacle.
(202) 301-8321 View (202) 301-8321
Photo of Sarah Holland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sarah Holland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults process the unique challenges of their age, tame their inner critic and self-doubt, and heal from trauma. Together we will get really curious about what makes you tick and how your current patterns and coping mechanisms came to be. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies in my work.
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults process the unique challenges of their age, tame their inner critic and self-doubt, and heal from trauma. Together we will get really curious about what makes you tick and how your current patterns and coping mechanisms came to be. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies in my work.
(202) 890-1828 View (202) 890-1828

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.