Self-Harming Therapists in New Jersey

Photo of Counseling for Young Adults, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Counseling for Young Adults
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Northvale, NJ 07647  (Online Only)
If you're here, I probably don't need to tell you that the rate of depression in college students continues to rise and college counseling centers can't keep up. You're sad. You're empty. You're filled with doom about the plight of the world and you're not even sure if there's a point in trying anymore. Our team specializes in working with individuals who are depressed, self-harming or having thoughts of suicide. We'll help you balance your mood, increase your self-worth and improve your relationships so that you can actually enjoy life again rather than trying to escape it.
If you're here, I probably don't need to tell you that the rate of depression in college students continues to rise and college counseling centers can't keep up. You're sad. You're empty. You're filled with doom about the plight of the world and you're not even sure if there's a point in trying anymore. Our team specializes in working with individuals who are depressed, self-harming or having thoughts of suicide. We'll help you balance your mood, increase your self-worth and improve your relationships so that you can actually enjoy life again rather than trying to escape it.
(267) 551-5835 View (267) 551-5835
Photo of Danielle Castellano Ray, Counselor in New Jersey
Danielle Castellano Ray
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morris Plains, NJ 07950
I have helped countless clients learn life changing skills to master their anxiety, depression, self-harming, suicidal ideations, peer conflict, and negative self-talk.
Are you a parent who’s child is struggling with emotion regulation, impulse control, and tolerating distress? Are you a parent of a teen who is struggling with motivation, self-care, and self-esteem? Are you a young adult who is tired of the same “type” of therapy over and over and nothing seems to work? Are you struggling with debilitating anxiety, low self-confidence, social drama, or negative coping skills that get in the way of your goals? Do you have a busy schedule and wish you didn’t always need to leave the house to work on building a life worth living?
I have helped countless clients learn life changing skills to master their anxiety, depression, self-harming, suicidal ideations, peer conflict, and negative self-talk.
Are you a parent who’s child is struggling with emotion regulation, impulse control, and tolerating distress? Are you a parent of a teen who is struggling with motivation, self-care, and self-esteem? Are you a young adult who is tired of the same “type” of therapy over and over and nothing seems to work? Are you struggling with debilitating anxiety, low self-confidence, social drama, or negative coping skills that get in the way of your goals? Do you have a busy schedule and wish you didn’t always need to leave the house to work on building a life worth living?
(973) 447-8516 View (973) 447-8516
Photo of Christina Dolores Varano-Sanabria, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Christina Dolores Varano-Sanabria
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Do you constantly feel overwhelmed? Are emotions full of anxiety affecting your overall quality of life? If so, I would like to assist in overcoming these interruptions to your overall pursuit of happiness. By working together we can establish building blocks that will aid in developing effective coping skills.
Do you constantly feel overwhelmed? Are emotions full of anxiety affecting your overall quality of life? If so, I would like to assist in overcoming these interruptions to your overall pursuit of happiness. By working together we can establish building blocks that will aid in developing effective coping skills.
(973) 440-2813 View (973) 440-2813
Photo of Stephanie Anne Bourgeois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Stephanie Anne Bourgeois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I specialize in treating the following: children and adolescent issues, cutting and other self-harming behaviors, depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, eating disorders infertility, parenting concerns, women's issues, relationship issues -- conflict and anger management, self-esteem and assertiveness training, life transitions, loss/grief, addictions and co-dependency.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1997 and in private practice since 2012, I offer individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults and also provide couples and family therapy. I offer traditional therapy as well as alternative holistic/somatic treatments such as body psychotherapy, EMDR and sandtray therapy. My work is deeply informed by a holistic mind/body/spirit approach to healing and well-being.
I specialize in treating the following: children and adolescent issues, cutting and other self-harming behaviors, depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, eating disorders infertility, parenting concerns, women's issues, relationship issues -- conflict and anger management, self-esteem and assertiveness training, life transitions, loss/grief, addictions and co-dependency.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1997 and in private practice since 2012, I offer individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults and also provide couples and family therapy. I offer traditional therapy as well as alternative holistic/somatic treatments such as body psychotherapy, EMDR and sandtray therapy. My work is deeply informed by a holistic mind/body/spirit approach to healing and well-being.
(973) 988-4317 View (973) 988-4317
Photo of Linda Centeno, Psychologist in New Jersey
Linda Centeno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/Lesbian issues.
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/Lesbian issues.
(201) 820-0937 View (201) 820-0937
Photo of Baker Street Behavioral Health, Psychologist in New Jersey
Baker Street Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
IN PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE - We are a small practice of high quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, and Neuropsychological Assessment Appointments are Now Available
IN PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE - We are a small practice of high quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, and Neuropsychological Assessment Appointments are Now Available
(201) 297-9710 View (201) 297-9710
Photo of Lauren Shelly Jefferson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Lauren Shelly Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the pleasure of working with a varied clientele. For many years I have built rapport with and facilitated the progress of youth who are on the spectrum, who have attention disorders, who struggled with emotion regulation, who are mute, who are transgender, and have exhibited self-harming behaviors. I have also worked with families as a parent coach and as a provider of psycho-education. Many of my adult clients have had issues with abandonment, attachment, trauma, and self-harm. The goals I have facilitated my clients progression in are myriad. However, one goal most of my clients aspire to attain is self-love.
I have had the pleasure of working with a varied clientele. For many years I have built rapport with and facilitated the progress of youth who are on the spectrum, who have attention disorders, who struggled with emotion regulation, who are mute, who are transgender, and have exhibited self-harming behaviors. I have also worked with families as a parent coach and as a provider of psycho-education. Many of my adult clients have had issues with abandonment, attachment, trauma, and self-harm. The goals I have facilitated my clients progression in are myriad. However, one goal most of my clients aspire to attain is self-love.
(609) 881-1809 View (609) 881-1809
Photo of Jean Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Jean Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07060  (Online Only)
Teens with self-esteem issues leading to self-harming behaviors.
Everyone experiences ups and downs in life and sometimes it is difficult navigating life's twists and turns. As a licensed counselor, I have experience working with teens and adults of all ages as well as couples at different stages in their relationship. Whether you are a teen experiencing teenage issues such as bullying, peer pressure, social media addiction or an adult dealing with family crisis or life changes, Brown's Counseling and Consulting can provide the counseling and individualized support necessary to handle these challenges. Building an alliance and a relationship is foundational to therapy. Also Clinical Supervisor.
Teens with self-esteem issues leading to self-harming behaviors.
Everyone experiences ups and downs in life and sometimes it is difficult navigating life's twists and turns. As a licensed counselor, I have experience working with teens and adults of all ages as well as couples at different stages in their relationship. Whether you are a teen experiencing teenage issues such as bullying, peer pressure, social media addiction or an adult dealing with family crisis or life changes, Brown's Counseling and Consulting can provide the counseling and individualized support necessary to handle these challenges. Building an alliance and a relationship is foundational to therapy. Also Clinical Supervisor.
(908) 460-8357 View (908) 460-8357
Photo of Samantha Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist in New Jersey
Samantha Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Welcome! I specialize in working with people who experience anxiety, depression or trauma symptoms. I am also further trained in supporting suicidal and self-harming behaviors.
Welcome! I specialize in working with people who experience anxiety, depression or trauma symptoms. I am also further trained in supporting suicidal and self-harming behaviors.
(408) 669-0873 View (408) 669-0873
Danielle L Sciarrino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I work with a children, adolescents, and their families who are dealing with a variety of issues and needs. Some of the reasons children are brought in for therapy are for help dealing with behavioral needs, trauma, divorce/separation, mood disorders, self harming behaviors, and developmental issues such as ADHD and Autism. I will involve the family members in the therapeutic process on an as needed basis. Through a collaborative process I will help my clients meet their goals. I will also work with schools or other therapists as needed.
I work with a children, adolescents, and their families who are dealing with a variety of issues and needs. Some of the reasons children are brought in for therapy are for help dealing with behavioral needs, trauma, divorce/separation, mood disorders, self harming behaviors, and developmental issues such as ADHD and Autism. I will involve the family members in the therapeutic process on an as needed basis. Through a collaborative process I will help my clients meet their goals. I will also work with schools or other therapists as needed.
(551) 231-1692 View (551) 231-1692
Photo of Cheryl Golub, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Cheryl Golub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montvale, NJ 07645
Anxiety, depression and relationship problems can make life challenging for both adults and the children they care about. I would like to offer you help in a comfortable, empathetic environment. My practice specializes in addressing and treating the unique challenges faced by adolescents and teens. Treatment specializations include: family/peer relationships; bullying; self-esteem; self-harming; substance abuse; grief and loss; parenting; survivors of childhood abuse.
Anxiety, depression and relationship problems can make life challenging for both adults and the children they care about. I would like to offer you help in a comfortable, empathetic environment. My practice specializes in addressing and treating the unique challenges faced by adolescents and teens. Treatment specializations include: family/peer relationships; bullying; self-esteem; self-harming; substance abuse; grief and loss; parenting; survivors of childhood abuse.
(201) 616-7738 View (201) 616-7738
Photo of Lukin Center for Psychotherapy- Bergen County, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Lukin Center for Psychotherapy- Bergen County
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
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 Specialized Therapy Associates, Psychologist in New Jersey
Specialized Therapy Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, APN-C, CFMP
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Vanessa Gourdine this highly skilled & specialized staff is continuously trained on the most recent research and developments in the field, making STA's treatment services cutting-edge.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
Vanessa Gourdine this highly skilled & specialized staff is continuously trained on the most recent research and developments in the field, making STA's treatment services cutting-edge.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
(201) 366-7096 View (201) 366-7096
Photo of Robyn Reznik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Robyn Reznik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
When people come to therapy they sometimes have a list of concerns and are not sure how to address them. I am an LCSW & LCADC who has been practicing for 25 years. I received my MSW from NYU and I have an interactive style. Some of the conditions I treat include bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, postpartum, & ADHD. I use CBT and was certified in DBT. I treat teenagers, adults, & families. I will diagnose conditions, provide therapeutic interventions appropriate for that diagnosis, and will provide education regarding additional referrals to additional supports if needed. I can also provide clinical supervision for LCSWs.
When people come to therapy they sometimes have a list of concerns and are not sure how to address them. I am an LCSW & LCADC who has been practicing for 25 years. I received my MSW from NYU and I have an interactive style. Some of the conditions I treat include bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, postpartum, & ADHD. I use CBT and was certified in DBT. I treat teenagers, adults, & families. I will diagnose conditions, provide therapeutic interventions appropriate for that diagnosis, and will provide education regarding additional referrals to additional supports if needed. I can also provide clinical supervision for LCSWs.
(732) 709-4296 View (732) 709-4296
Photo of Pirelli Clinical and Forensic Psychology, LLC, Psychologist in New Jersey
Pirelli Clinical and Forensic Psychology, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
In addition to our extensive clinical-forensic experience, we stay at the CUTTING EDGE by teaching, training, and publishing in our respective areas of expertise.
We are a group of highly skilled professionals who conduct a full range of CLINICAL and FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS - in Administrative, Criminal, and Civil (incl. Tort) matters; examples include, but are not limited to FIREARM, IMMIGRATION, RISK ASSESSMENT, COMPETENCY, PERSONAL INJURY, AND SCHOOL AND EMPLOYMENT-RELATED EVALUATIONS. We have extensive experience working in a wide range of clinical settings with clients across all ages and presentations. We are committed to providing mental health services to you at the highest standards of practice and look forward to working with you!
In addition to our extensive clinical-forensic experience, we stay at the CUTTING EDGE by teaching, training, and publishing in our respective areas of expertise.
We are a group of highly skilled professionals who conduct a full range of CLINICAL and FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS - in Administrative, Criminal, and Civil (incl. Tort) matters; examples include, but are not limited to FIREARM, IMMIGRATION, RISK ASSESSMENT, COMPETENCY, PERSONAL INJURY, AND SCHOOL AND EMPLOYMENT-RELATED EVALUATIONS. We have extensive experience working in a wide range of clinical settings with clients across all ages and presentations. We are committed to providing mental health services to you at the highest standards of practice and look forward to working with you!
(973) 287-3201 View (973) 287-3201
Photo of Brittany Ryan-Berzins, Psychologist in New Jersey
Brittany Ryan-Berzins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brittany Ryan-Berzins, Ph.D. specializes in individual therapy with women, adolescent girls, and children. She specializes in treating depression (in teens and adults), self-injury (cutting), anxiety, and stress specifically associated with transitions for women and girls. She treats post-partum depression, stress associated with fertility treatment, and coping with divorce. Dr. Ryan-Berzins has a special talent in guiding individuals out of depression, whether it is their first experience in therapy or if they have struggled with depression throughout their lives.
Brittany Ryan-Berzins, Ph.D. specializes in individual therapy with women, adolescent girls, and children. She specializes in treating depression (in teens and adults), self-injury (cutting), anxiety, and stress specifically associated with transitions for women and girls. She treats post-partum depression, stress associated with fertility treatment, and coping with divorce. Dr. Ryan-Berzins has a special talent in guiding individuals out of depression, whether it is their first experience in therapy or if they have struggled with depression throughout their lives.
(973) 552-2679 View (973) 552-2679
Photo of Jaclyn Leit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Jaclyn Leit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH, CGIP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
Because I have worked in private practice, hospital based, & at day programs, I am able to work with a variety of concerns: Depression, postpartum depression & postpartum anxiety, chronic medical issues, grief/loss, separation/divorce, parenting, changes in life circumstances, anxiety, cutting, eating issues, food allergies, substance abuse, OCD, and stress management.
No two individuals are the same & that is how I approach treatment. I make therapy fit your needs by drawing upon a variety of clinical frameworks to provide patient focused care. Therapy is about you & we focus on addressing what you want to heal. Working together, we build upon your strengths and help develop coping skills and support while working towards your goals. I have 2 decades of experience & I am trained to address many concerns. I see adults, adolescents & couples.
Because I have worked in private practice, hospital based, & at day programs, I am able to work with a variety of concerns: Depression, postpartum depression & postpartum anxiety, chronic medical issues, grief/loss, separation/divorce, parenting, changes in life circumstances, anxiety, cutting, eating issues, food allergies, substance abuse, OCD, and stress management.
No two individuals are the same & that is how I approach treatment. I make therapy fit your needs by drawing upon a variety of clinical frameworks to provide patient focused care. Therapy is about you & we focus on addressing what you want to heal. Working together, we build upon your strengths and help develop coping skills and support while working towards your goals. I have 2 decades of experience & I am trained to address many concerns. I see adults, adolescents & couples.
(201) 419-6341 View (201) 419-6341
We Level Up NJ Addiction Rehab & Detox Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08618
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
(609) 418-4013 View (609) 418-4013
Photo of Tara Colandrea, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Tara Colandrea
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, SAC, ACS
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
(908) 884-1198 View (908) 884-1198
Photo of Holly Aschoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Holly Aschoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
My name is Holly Aschoff and I’m part of a dynamic private practice located in Newton, NJ. My specialty is working from a client-centered strengths-based perspective, using the power of positivity through ACT, CBT, DBT, as well as TF-CBT for those who have suffered or witnessed trauma. I work with adolescents, and adults in individual, couples and family therapy. I am trained in a multitude of cutting-edge evidence-based therapies servicing a variety of people suffering from an array of different mental health diagnosis, including mood disorders and personality disorders.
My name is Holly Aschoff and I’m part of a dynamic private practice located in Newton, NJ. My specialty is working from a client-centered strengths-based perspective, using the power of positivity through ACT, CBT, DBT, as well as TF-CBT for those who have suffered or witnessed trauma. I work with adolescents, and adults in individual, couples and family therapy. I am trained in a multitude of cutting-edge evidence-based therapies servicing a variety of people suffering from an array of different mental health diagnosis, including mood disorders and personality disorders.
(973) 756-3687 View (973) 756-3687

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.