Self-Harming Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Kimberlie (Kimi) Simms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kimberlie (Kimi) Simms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with individuals facing chronic suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
Throughout our lives, we are taught how to be a good friend, a good family member, and to be kind and considerate to others. Unfortunately, people often are not taught how to be nice to oneself. As a therapist, I strive to assist clients in self-exploration and self-compassion and working towards self-acceptance. The real change starts with us as individuals. Once we start to take care of ourselves, and make those steps towards internal healing, there is a ripple effect towards improving our relationships with others. All parts of us are important, especially those parts of us we want to avoid and reject.
I have worked extensively with individuals facing chronic suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
Throughout our lives, we are taught how to be a good friend, a good family member, and to be kind and considerate to others. Unfortunately, people often are not taught how to be nice to oneself. As a therapist, I strive to assist clients in self-exploration and self-compassion and working towards self-acceptance. The real change starts with us as individuals. Once we start to take care of ourselves, and make those steps towards internal healing, there is a ripple effect towards improving our relationships with others. All parts of us are important, especially those parts of us we want to avoid and reject.
(773) 694-9370 View (773) 694-9370
Photo of Claudia Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Claudia Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
I have worked with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual/relational violence, self-harming behaviors, grief, occupational stressors, relationship difficulties, and the exploration of one’s gender, sexual, or racial identity.
We are all works in progress and the world around us can steer us in the wrong direction. I strive to work with my clients to find the most rewarding path and the healthiest balance of one’s needs, through learning more about oneself, others, and the world around us. It is essential to find a therapist that makes you feel validated, respected, and acknowledged by honoring your intersectional identities. As such, I strive to embody this in the therapeutic approaches that I use with my clients to uniquely address their presenting concerns.
I have worked with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual/relational violence, self-harming behaviors, grief, occupational stressors, relationship difficulties, and the exploration of one’s gender, sexual, or racial identity.
We are all works in progress and the world around us can steer us in the wrong direction. I strive to work with my clients to find the most rewarding path and the healthiest balance of one’s needs, through learning more about oneself, others, and the world around us. It is essential to find a therapist that makes you feel validated, respected, and acknowledged by honoring your intersectional identities. As such, I strive to embody this in the therapeutic approaches that I use with my clients to uniquely address their presenting concerns.
(630) 523-8980 View (630) 523-8980
Photo of Primary Care Psychology Associates, LLC, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Primary Care Psychology Associates, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Our mission is to facilitate cutting edge integration of behavioral health and medicine by promoting behavioral health across the lifespan through easy-access, an excellent team of psychotherapists, working in collaboration with primary and specialty medical providers.
Primary Care Psychology Associates, LLC is the premier provider of outpatient adult and pediatric psychological services in Central and Northern Chicagoland. We provide comprehensive pediatric (0-18) and adult psychological services, including psychological assessment, consultation, and psychotherapy (individual, couples, and family). Our locations are accessible and conveniently located close to major transportation hubs throughout the greater Chicago area. For more information on our locations and our therapists, please visit www.pcpachicago.com
Our mission is to facilitate cutting edge integration of behavioral health and medicine by promoting behavioral health across the lifespan through easy-access, an excellent team of psychotherapists, working in collaboration with primary and specialty medical providers.
Primary Care Psychology Associates, LLC is the premier provider of outpatient adult and pediatric psychological services in Central and Northern Chicagoland. We provide comprehensive pediatric (0-18) and adult psychological services, including psychological assessment, consultation, and psychotherapy (individual, couples, and family). Our locations are accessible and conveniently located close to major transportation hubs throughout the greater Chicago area. For more information on our locations and our therapists, please visit www.pcpachicago.com
(224) 479-1590 View (224) 479-1590
Photo of Leslie Crea-Kammerer, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Leslie Crea-Kammerer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I utilize cutting-edge tools, research, and treatment models to help my clients gain a better understanding of their problems and how to achieve their goals.
Modern life presents a number of challenges for adults and families. It can be difficult to balance all of the conflicting demands, especially if we are also trying to care for others or carrying the weight of past traumas or other unresolved issues. This can lead to increasing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger, and can interfere with the relationships we value and need. None of us are perfect, but we all deserve the chance to live a life consistent with our values and goals.
I utilize cutting-edge tools, research, and treatment models to help my clients gain a better understanding of their problems and how to achieve their goals.
Modern life presents a number of challenges for adults and families. It can be difficult to balance all of the conflicting demands, especially if we are also trying to care for others or carrying the weight of past traumas or other unresolved issues. This can lead to increasing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger, and can interfere with the relationships we value and need. None of us are perfect, but we all deserve the chance to live a life consistent with our values and goals.
(872) 231-3582 View (872) 231-3582
Photo of Danielle Renyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Danielle Renyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I have experience providing support to individuals to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through life transitions or relationship issues, process abuse and neglect, and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming.
I take an empathetic and client centered approach to therapy, recognizing that it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to take the steps towards making positive changes in your life. I believe that all individuals have the tools to be successful in life and empower clients to use their strengths to make change. I value the therapeutic relationship and take a collaborative approach to working with children and adolescents.
I have experience providing support to individuals to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through life transitions or relationship issues, process abuse and neglect, and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming.
I take an empathetic and client centered approach to therapy, recognizing that it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to take the steps towards making positive changes in your life. I believe that all individuals have the tools to be successful in life and empower clients to use their strengths to make change. I value the therapeutic relationship and take a collaborative approach to working with children and adolescents.
(773) 694-8071 View (773) 694-8071
Photo of Heather Keating, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Heather Keating
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include: mood and anxiety disorders; relationship issues; life transitions; trauma; intrusive thoughts; avoidance; communication skills; perfectionism; intersectionality; matrescence; family conflict; maladaptive over/under control; identity; harm OCD; school and workplace difficulties; self-harming behaviors; and suicidality.
With a strong belief in human resilience, I work with individuals who feel stuck and limited by life's challenges. By developing a safe and trusting relationship with my clients, I empower them to find the strength within themselves to make positive change.
My areas of expertise include: mood and anxiety disorders; relationship issues; life transitions; trauma; intrusive thoughts; avoidance; communication skills; perfectionism; intersectionality; matrescence; family conflict; maladaptive over/under control; identity; harm OCD; school and workplace difficulties; self-harming behaviors; and suicidality.
With a strong belief in human resilience, I work with individuals who feel stuck and limited by life's challenges. By developing a safe and trusting relationship with my clients, I empower them to find the strength within themselves to make positive change.
(312) 626-8553 View (312) 626-8553
Photo of Alesia Lacy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Alesia Lacy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I have worked with all age groups in the areas of anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, self-harming, chronic pain, relationship issues, anger management, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome. Have you been thinking about starting therapy for a while but feel overwhelmed by the idea of where to start? At whatever pace you are comfortable I am here to help you identify and prioritize your issues to begin managing and/or resolving the problems that are holding you back from thriving as your best self. My goal is to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental platform to help you become your own catalyst for self-empowerment. My counseling style is a client-centered strength-based approach that includes various treatment modalities depending on the client's needs and expectations.
I have worked with all age groups in the areas of anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, self-harming, chronic pain, relationship issues, anger management, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome. Have you been thinking about starting therapy for a while but feel overwhelmed by the idea of where to start? At whatever pace you are comfortable I am here to help you identify and prioritize your issues to begin managing and/or resolving the problems that are holding you back from thriving as your best self. My goal is to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental platform to help you become your own catalyst for self-empowerment. My counseling style is a client-centered strength-based approach that includes various treatment modalities depending on the client's needs and expectations.
(312) 779-1402 View (312) 779-1402
Photo of Jillian Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jillian Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
You've done what you can to manage your depression, anxiety, or addiction on your own yet what previously worked just isn't cutting it any more. You know a change needs to be made but are unsure as to exactly how you'll do that. You've been wanting to dig deeper, reflect, and do some self-exploration and are seeking a guide for this journey. Taking action to reach out for therapy can be a challenge and here you are taking that leap of faith, making the first step towards an improved you! Together we will achieve your goals by developing healthier coping skills, improving your communication, and exploring and setting boundaries.
You've done what you can to manage your depression, anxiety, or addiction on your own yet what previously worked just isn't cutting it any more. You know a change needs to be made but are unsure as to exactly how you'll do that. You've been wanting to dig deeper, reflect, and do some self-exploration and are seeking a guide for this journey. Taking action to reach out for therapy can be a challenge and here you are taking that leap of faith, making the first step towards an improved you! Together we will achieve your goals by developing healthier coping skills, improving your communication, and exploring and setting boundaries.
(312) 584-5103 View (312) 584-5103
Photo of Megan Allegretti, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Megan Allegretti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
We will look at becoming more internally aware of systems that are not cutting it anymore for you, why those patterns evolved in the first place.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Megan Allegretti, and I am so proud of you for considering the incredibly difficult step of seeking mental health therapy. In an effort to make this process feel less intimidating, here are some things about me, to see if my approach is a solid fit for you. My approach works with the intention to aid in healing from the distress in your mental and emotional world. Often we create various behavioral patterns in life, that worked at some point, but now you notice them becoming maladaptive.
We will look at becoming more internally aware of systems that are not cutting it anymore for you, why those patterns evolved in the first place.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Megan Allegretti, and I am so proud of you for considering the incredibly difficult step of seeking mental health therapy. In an effort to make this process feel less intimidating, here are some things about me, to see if my approach is a solid fit for you. My approach works with the intention to aid in healing from the distress in your mental and emotional world. Often we create various behavioral patterns in life, that worked at some point, but now you notice them becoming maladaptive.
(224) 435-5085 View (224) 435-5085
Photo of People’s Therapy of Chicago, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
People’s Therapy of Chicago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Drinking, using substances, gambling, self harm (cutting, burning, more).
People’s Therapy of Chicago treats people struggling with: addictive use of substances or behaviors, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, job stress and the lasting impact of trauma. If you're considering therapy but aren't sure, then you've come to the right place. Most people who see us have little to no experience with therapists or therapy. Many are uncomfortable asking for help, believing it is a sign of "weakness." Others come from families where "staying strong," and keeping "personal business" in the family was the norm. Whatever the story, they are able to open up to us.
Drinking, using substances, gambling, self harm (cutting, burning, more).
People’s Therapy of Chicago treats people struggling with: addictive use of substances or behaviors, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, job stress and the lasting impact of trauma. If you're considering therapy but aren't sure, then you've come to the right place. Most people who see us have little to no experience with therapists or therapy. Many are uncomfortable asking for help, believing it is a sign of "weakness." Others come from families where "staying strong," and keeping "personal business" in the family was the norm. Whatever the story, they are able to open up to us.
(773) 328-8720 View (773) 328-8720
Photo of Shardae Elise Martin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Shardae Elise Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I believe that every person should live up to the potential that they see in their vision; not through the lens someone else ascribes to them. For this reason, I approach each therapeutic relationship as being one of a joint partnership. It is a privilege to work alongside individuals who have recognized they no longer have to work through challenges of life alone. I bring over 5 years of experience working with diverse client demographics with variety of concerns including anxiety, self -harming, grief, depression, psychosis, eating disorders and substance use. My approach is trauma informed, with an emphasis on strength based.
I believe that every person should live up to the potential that they see in their vision; not through the lens someone else ascribes to them. For this reason, I approach each therapeutic relationship as being one of a joint partnership. It is a privilege to work alongside individuals who have recognized they no longer have to work through challenges of life alone. I bring over 5 years of experience working with diverse client demographics with variety of concerns including anxiety, self -harming, grief, depression, psychosis, eating disorders and substance use. My approach is trauma informed, with an emphasis on strength based.
(773) 825-3639 View (773) 825-3639
Photo of Stephanie Liebl, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Stephanie Liebl
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
Stephanie believes that due to her being “such an awkward teenager,” she can easily relate to many of the struggles adolescents have as they are working through identity issues and increasing self-esteem, as well as mental health related issues such as anxiety, depression, and self-harming behavior.
Stephanie Liebl is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist. As an art therapist, Stephanie values being able to use creativity in her approach to working with clients. This can be literally using art supplies, but also helping clients look at their issues through different perspectives or experimenting with a variety of coping mechanisms. Stephanie also places a focus on building therapeutic rapport and creating a safe space for clients. She finds it is important to allow the client to work at their own pace to achieve their goals- no matter how long that takes.
Stephanie believes that due to her being “such an awkward teenager,” she can easily relate to many of the struggles adolescents have as they are working through identity issues and increasing self-esteem, as well as mental health related issues such as anxiety, depression, and self-harming behavior.
Stephanie Liebl is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist. As an art therapist, Stephanie values being able to use creativity in her approach to working with clients. This can be literally using art supplies, but also helping clients look at their issues through different perspectives or experimenting with a variety of coping mechanisms. Stephanie also places a focus on building therapeutic rapport and creating a safe space for clients. She finds it is important to allow the client to work at their own pace to achieve their goals- no matter how long that takes.
(773) 570-7542 x2003 View (773) 570-7542 x2003
Photo of Jessica A Sweet, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jessica A Sweet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Currently have immediate day time appointments. Waitlist for evening. If you have a child or adolescent that feels depressed, anxious, worried, disconnected from relationships, or struggling with a certain issue, I can help. I also have experience working with self-harming, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or bullying. I also work with family dynamics like parenting struggles, issues with divorce, couple counseling, parent/child relationships. If you are an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problem, work conflict or other issues, I can help create solutions for these problems.
Currently have immediate day time appointments. Waitlist for evening. If you have a child or adolescent that feels depressed, anxious, worried, disconnected from relationships, or struggling with a certain issue, I can help. I also have experience working with self-harming, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or bullying. I also work with family dynamics like parenting struggles, issues with divorce, couple counseling, parent/child relationships. If you are an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problem, work conflict or other issues, I can help create solutions for these problems.
(847) 380-3222 View (847) 380-3222
Photo of Samantha Huston, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Samantha Huston
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I truly enjoy my work and continue to train in order to stay on the cutting edge of new developments in the field.
For over 14 years I have specialized in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD. I also specialize in Women’s Health and supportive parenting. I focus on supporting and empowering my clients while using evidence-based practices, such as CBT, ERP, and DBT. I use a client-centered approach to provide a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can safely explore and work through feelings, thoughts, and beliefs - conscious or unconscious - which may prevent them from reaching their full potential.
I truly enjoy my work and continue to train in order to stay on the cutting edge of new developments in the field.
For over 14 years I have specialized in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD. I also specialize in Women’s Health and supportive parenting. I focus on supporting and empowering my clients while using evidence-based practices, such as CBT, ERP, and DBT. I use a client-centered approach to provide a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can safely explore and work through feelings, thoughts, and beliefs - conscious or unconscious - which may prevent them from reaching their full potential.
(773) 299-1801 View (773) 299-1801
Photo of Amelia Harper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amelia Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that life has ups and downs which looks different to everyone and pain is something we all experience. I approach therapy with a strengths based approach and believe that even when people are struggling that have many strength that helped get them where they are today. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and my role is to support you non-judgmentally while helping you work towards the goals you choose. I am currently offering telehealth session and limited in-person sessions.
I understand that life has ups and downs which looks different to everyone and pain is something we all experience. I approach therapy with a strengths based approach and believe that even when people are struggling that have many strength that helped get them where they are today. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and my role is to support you non-judgmentally while helping you work towards the goals you choose. I am currently offering telehealth session and limited in-person sessions.
(872) 215-9788 x231 View (872) 215-9788 x231
Photo of Amanda Kelleghan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amanda Kelleghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MSIR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with females 16+ years of age on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harming behavior, and poor self esteem.
The constant pressures of daily life, particularly during a pandemic, can leave us feeling overwhelmed, scared, and alone. As we try to navigate our way through issues involving school, work, relationships, life transitions, and grief and loss, we may feel so hopeless that we feel as if we cannot go on like this anymore. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will provide support and guidance to help you identify unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you can make positive and sustainable changes to improve your quality of life.
I specialize in working with females 16+ years of age on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harming behavior, and poor self esteem.
The constant pressures of daily life, particularly during a pandemic, can leave us feeling overwhelmed, scared, and alone. As we try to navigate our way through issues involving school, work, relationships, life transitions, and grief and loss, we may feel so hopeless that we feel as if we cannot go on like this anymore. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will provide support and guidance to help you identify unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you can make positive and sustainable changes to improve your quality of life.
(331) 214-8021 View (331) 214-8021
Photo of Judith Ierulli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Judith Ierulli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Judith Ierulli specializes in working with adolescent and adult survivors of sexual, physical and emotional trauma. Judith holds a deep knowledge of trauma and abuse and the profound ways it affects survivors and those closest to them throughout the life cycle. Judith provides a safe place for survivors to work through the impact of abuse on one's sense of self, sexual identity, sense of trust and relationships. She provides concrete tools to help survivors manage symptoms, and also works within a mind-body framework. Judith's expertise includes working with Posttraumatic Stress reactions, dissociation and self-harming behaviors.
Judith Ierulli specializes in working with adolescent and adult survivors of sexual, physical and emotional trauma. Judith holds a deep knowledge of trauma and abuse and the profound ways it affects survivors and those closest to them throughout the life cycle. Judith provides a safe place for survivors to work through the impact of abuse on one's sense of self, sexual identity, sense of trust and relationships. She provides concrete tools to help survivors manage symptoms, and also works within a mind-body framework. Judith's expertise includes working with Posttraumatic Stress reactions, dissociation and self-harming behaviors.
(847) 230-4295 View (847) 230-4295
Photo of Maggie Lassar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Maggie Lassar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience working with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, posttraumatic stress reactions/disorder, personality disorders, suicidality, self-harming behaviors, dissociation, substance use disorders, relationship conflicts, and sex/intimacy.
My belief is the foundation of therapy is a safe, trusting, and authentic therapeutic relationship. I walk alongside my clients throughout the process of self-exploration and healing. Although therapy can be hard, scary, and extremely messy, my hope is that we can muddle through it together!
I also have extensive experience working with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, posttraumatic stress reactions/disorder, personality disorders, suicidality, self-harming behaviors, dissociation, substance use disorders, relationship conflicts, and sex/intimacy.
My belief is the foundation of therapy is a safe, trusting, and authentic therapeutic relationship. I walk alongside my clients throughout the process of self-exploration and healing. Although therapy can be hard, scary, and extremely messy, my hope is that we can muddle through it together!
(630) 593-0639 View (630) 593-0639
Photo of Generations Behavioral Healthcare, PC in Chicago, IL
Generations Behavioral Healthcare, PC
MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
At Generations Behavioral Healthcare, P.C. (GBH) we are redefining the traditional model of behavioral healthcare practice. We provide cutting-edge concierge behavioral healthcare with an emphasis on personalized, evidence-based care. We provide psychiatric medication management services in-office, at-home, and even through telepsychiatry. Our prices are typically 50-75% cheaper than insurance-based practices. GBH provides compassionate care to all age groups and works with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
At Generations Behavioral Healthcare, P.C. (GBH) we are redefining the traditional model of behavioral healthcare practice. We provide cutting-edge concierge behavioral healthcare with an emphasis on personalized, evidence-based care. We provide psychiatric medication management services in-office, at-home, and even through telepsychiatry. Our prices are typically 50-75% cheaper than insurance-based practices. GBH provides compassionate care to all age groups and works with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(630) 716-9813 View (630) 716-9813
Photo of Lizzy Maurno, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Lizzy Maurno
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
You are capable of taking charge of your own healing process, and my role is to help you find the channels and tools for healing that work best for you. Confronting emotional wounds can be a powerful, overwhelming, and often painful experience, and I strive to provide you with an empathic and judgment-free space where you can process these emotions freely. Utilizing a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, I harness the power of the therapeutic relationship to help you work toward recovery, empowerment, and overall well-being.
You are capable of taking charge of your own healing process, and my role is to help you find the channels and tools for healing that work best for you. Confronting emotional wounds can be a powerful, overwhelming, and often painful experience, and I strive to provide you with an empathic and judgment-free space where you can process these emotions freely. Utilizing a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, I harness the power of the therapeutic relationship to help you work toward recovery, empowerment, and overall well-being.
(872) 274-3019 View (872) 274-3019
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.