Self-Harming Therapists in Richfield, PA

Photo of Danielle Marie Mink - Two Trails Mental Health & Wellness Center, LLC., PsyD
Two Trails Mental Health & Wellness Center, LLC.
PsyD
Verified Verified
Richfield, PA 17086
Let Two Trails Mental Health and Wellness Center provide the support and direction you are seeking. Our clinicians are here to help you with difficult life changes and to offer you support during the healing process. We can help you to feel better about yourself by helping you gain a sense of control over your moods and emotions, by helping you gain more satisfaction in your personal relationships and by helping you to overcome obstacles that may be interfering with your ability to achieve life goals. We will keep your concerns private and confidential.
Let Two Trails Mental Health and Wellness Center provide the support and direction you are seeking. Our clinicians are here to help you with difficult life changes and to offer you support during the healing process. We can help you to feel better about yourself by helping you gain a sense of control over your moods and emotions, by helping you gain more satisfaction in your personal relationships and by helping you to overcome obstacles that may be interfering with your ability to achieve life goals. We will keep your concerns private and confidential.
(717) 778-3250 View (717) 778-3250

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Beverly Kline-Lash, LCAT, CAADC, LPC, CCTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beverly Kline-Lash
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAT, CAADC, LPC, CCTS
Verified Verified
Beaver Springs, PA 17812
I'm a seasoned therapist with an extensive background in mental health. I own a private practice located in a very rural PA community. Because of the nature of my location in PA, I have experience working with all populations and multiple specialties. My mission is to provide the assurance of quality behavioral health care. Treatment is built on the values of dignity, integrity, accountability, respect, spirituality, creativity, flexibility and growth. Common tools in which services are provided are empathy, compassion, cultural sensitivity, humor, and professional competence to ensure individual needs and treatment goals.
I'm a seasoned therapist with an extensive background in mental health. I own a private practice located in a very rural PA community. Because of the nature of my location in PA, I have experience working with all populations and multiple specialties. My mission is to provide the assurance of quality behavioral health care. Treatment is built on the values of dignity, integrity, accountability, respect, spirituality, creativity, flexibility and growth. Common tools in which services are provided are empathy, compassion, cultural sensitivity, humor, and professional competence to ensure individual needs and treatment goals.
(570) 559-8502 View (570) 559-8502
Photo of Mary A Fox, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary A Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Millerstown, PA 17062
Accepting New Clients Online. Wait list for in person. Life is a roller coaster. We all experience ups and downs, twists and turns. And at the end of the ride, we survived even though we may have been anxious, scared or excited. I use a strengths based approach with clients to help them achieve their goals. I am passionate about helping clients find their inner strengths and become their own "cheerleader". Clients are not alone on the journey ... we will journey together to discover strength, resilience and manage the stressors that our roller coaster lives bring to us.
Accepting New Clients Online. Wait list for in person. Life is a roller coaster. We all experience ups and downs, twists and turns. And at the end of the ride, we survived even though we may have been anxious, scared or excited. I use a strengths based approach with clients to help them achieve their goals. I am passionate about helping clients find their inner strengths and become their own "cheerleader". Clients are not alone on the journey ... we will journey together to discover strength, resilience and manage the stressors that our roller coaster lives bring to us.
(717) 482-5910 View (717) 482-5910

Online Therapists

Photo of Judy Harrity, MS, CAADC
Judy Harrity
MS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
Her experience extends to those struggling with addictions, depression, anxiety, self-harming, relationship issues and family conflict.
Judy received her Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology at Chestnut Hill College. She is trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Attachment-Based Therapy. She specializes in working with individuals who suffer from eating disorders, body dysmorphia, disordered eating, and those wanting to break free from diet culture. She is passionate about supporting others in finding freedom with food and body acceptance.
Her experience extends to those struggling with addictions, depression, anxiety, self-harming, relationship issues and family conflict.
Judy received her Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology at Chestnut Hill College. She is trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Attachment-Based Therapy. She specializes in working with individuals who suffer from eating disorders, body dysmorphia, disordered eating, and those wanting to break free from diet culture. She is passionate about supporting others in finding freedom with food and body acceptance.
(484) 232-5241 View (484) 232-5241
Photo of Karen Mummau - Matters of the Heart Counseling, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matters of the Heart Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Salunga, PA 17538
Does it feel like chaos is all around you? Are you struggling to keep it all together? Have you tried solving the problems in your life and it's just not working? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed and not sure where to turn? Have you tried everything you can think of and still feel stuck? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain about life and how to navigate all it requires. Not addressing your feelings can lead to health difficulties, increased fatigue, and less life enjoyment. I believe there is hope.
Does it feel like chaos is all around you? Are you struggling to keep it all together? Have you tried solving the problems in your life and it's just not working? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed and not sure where to turn? Have you tried everything you can think of and still feel stuck? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain about life and how to navigate all it requires. Not addressing your feelings can lead to health difficulties, increased fatigue, and less life enjoyment. I believe there is hope.
(717) 271-7866 View (717) 271-7866
Photo of Joseph H Lucas - Advanced Counseling and Testing Solutions, LLC., PsyD, ABSNP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Advanced Counseling and Testing Solutions, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
ACTS Cutting Edge Neurofeedback therapy with wireless equipment: QEEG Brain Mapping- assessment and training, QEEG guided & Dynamic Z Score Training, for Trauma, TBI, RAD, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Mood and Learning Disorders, Anxiety, Addictions, Sensory problems & Tics, without side effects.
Fall is quickly approaching! Do you want to improve your emotional wellness? ACTS is accepting new clients for Counseling/Psychotherapy, Neurofeedback, and Testing. ACTS is a reputable practice with a seasoned group of professionals with a long-standing reputation for helping clients achieve results. Relationship challenges, experiencing turmoil or simply need solutions to life's problems, ACTS is here! Stressed, depressed, anxious, feel overwhelmed; child having learning or behavioral challenges? ACTS excels at creating solutions to life's problems, in a caring & empathic environment. Call today & focus on yourself or your child!
ACTS Cutting Edge Neurofeedback therapy with wireless equipment: QEEG Brain Mapping- assessment and training, QEEG guided & Dynamic Z Score Training, for Trauma, TBI, RAD, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Mood and Learning Disorders, Anxiety, Addictions, Sensory problems & Tics, without side effects.
Fall is quickly approaching! Do you want to improve your emotional wellness? ACTS is accepting new clients for Counseling/Psychotherapy, Neurofeedback, and Testing. ACTS is a reputable practice with a seasoned group of professionals with a long-standing reputation for helping clients achieve results. Relationship challenges, experiencing turmoil or simply need solutions to life's problems, ACTS is here! Stressed, depressed, anxious, feel overwhelmed; child having learning or behavioral challenges? ACTS excels at creating solutions to life's problems, in a caring & empathic environment. Call today & focus on yourself or your child!
(717) 523-9273 View (717) 523-9273
Photo of Thu-Ha Le, LPC, NCC, CCTP, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thu-Ha Le
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, MA
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have worked in the mental health field for over six years with individuals of different needs, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, self-harming, etc. I also have experience working with individuals who have dealt with trauma in their childhood and issues within relationships. You've spent a lot of time trying to manage these symptoms. At times, you can tell yourself, "Yes, I got this." Other times, the difficulties in life exacerbate these symptoms, which can stop you from moving forward.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have worked in the mental health field for over six years with individuals of different needs, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, self-harming, etc. I also have experience working with individuals who have dealt with trauma in their childhood and issues within relationships. You've spent a lot of time trying to manage these symptoms. At times, you can tell yourself, "Yes, I got this." Other times, the difficulties in life exacerbate these symptoms, which can stop you from moving forward.
(610) 854-9859 x306 View (610) 854-9859 x306
Photo of Laurie Schein - New Journey Family Center, LCSW, MAMFT, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Journey Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Our passion for therapy is helping people of all ages discover their full potential in life and overcome obstacles. Our goal is to create a safe environment for you to turn and face the challenges you experience and identify new ways to create a meaningful life. For us, therapy is relationship and we would be honored to walk with you along your journey. We would like to offer our trainings and experiences, both professionally and personally to collaborate with you to help you reach your goals. We look forward to walking with you on this journey of healing and self-discovery!
Our passion for therapy is helping people of all ages discover their full potential in life and overcome obstacles. Our goal is to create a safe environment for you to turn and face the challenges you experience and identify new ways to create a meaningful life. For us, therapy is relationship and we would be honored to walk with you along your journey. We would like to offer our trainings and experiences, both professionally and personally to collaborate with you to help you reach your goals. We look forward to walking with you on this journey of healing and self-discovery!
(717) 850-9573 View (717) 850-9573
Photo of Nancy Elizabeth Lubow - Nancy E. Lubow PhD. LPC, MT-BC, PhD, LPC, MT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy E. Lubow PhD. LPC, MT-BC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Quakertown, PA 18951
I specialize in the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder and the spectrum of self-harming behaviors that develop from abandonment and loss.
I developed a 'whole brain' creative arts therapy to help clients find the words and images that can express their thoughts and emotions. This enables clients to 'see' how their negative behaviors originally developed as a way to cope with high levels of interpersonal stress. The BrainsmART process empowers clients with strategies that organize their emotions as they discharge past traumas from their body and mind. Once emotions are 'seen' and 'named', clients can re-'view' the memories and beliefs and re-route their self-destructive behaviors. The process works creatively to redirect addictive urges into self-empowering action. Call me at 267.261.9987
I specialize in the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder and the spectrum of self-harming behaviors that develop from abandonment and loss.
I developed a 'whole brain' creative arts therapy to help clients find the words and images that can express their thoughts and emotions. This enables clients to 'see' how their negative behaviors originally developed as a way to cope with high levels of interpersonal stress. The BrainsmART process empowers clients with strategies that organize their emotions as they discharge past traumas from their body and mind. Once emotions are 'seen' and 'named', clients can re-'view' the memories and beliefs and re-route their self-destructive behaviors. The process works creatively to redirect addictive urges into self-empowering action. Call me at 267.261.9987
(215) 267-8632 View (215) 267-8632
Photo of Samantha Crean, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Crean
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19383  (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. I specialize in working with individuals who are depressed, self-harming or having thoughts of suicide. I'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. I specialize in working with individuals who are depressed, self-harming or having thoughts of suicide. I'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.
Photo of Dustin N Kurtek, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dustin N Kurtek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Exton, PA 19341
In practice since 2007, I work with those who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, have encountered trauma, engage in substance use, disordered eating, self-harming behaviors and relational conflict.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, it is my goal in partnering with clients in navigating through life's twists and turns, being a guide towards a middle path of acceptance and change. My focus is to empower clients to transform coping strategies into skills of daily living, identify and release themselves from self-destructive patterns that led them to treatment, doing so in an environment that encourages growth and development.
In practice since 2007, I work with those who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, have encountered trauma, engage in substance use, disordered eating, self-harming behaviors and relational conflict.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, it is my goal in partnering with clients in navigating through life's twists and turns, being a guide towards a middle path of acceptance and change. My focus is to empower clients to transform coping strategies into skills of daily living, identify and release themselves from self-destructive patterns that led them to treatment, doing so in an environment that encourages growth and development.
(570) 541-4511 View (570) 541-4511
Photo of Alexandria Samuels- Ross - Agency Accepting New Patients!, MS
Agency Accepting New Patients!
MS
Verified Verified
Johnstown, PA 15904  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped by negative thought patterns? Does your negative thoughts often lead to depression or suicidal ideation? Do you wish you could stop these intrusive thoughts, but it feels like an unbreakable cycle? Some days, your anxiety might even push you to the point of tears. Depression can often cause impulsive, self harming behaviors or put a damper on the relationships around us. Life doesn't have to be like this. You are the captain to your life. Start making changes today!
Do you feel trapped by negative thought patterns? Does your negative thoughts often lead to depression or suicidal ideation? Do you wish you could stop these intrusive thoughts, but it feels like an unbreakable cycle? Some days, your anxiety might even push you to the point of tears. Depression can often cause impulsive, self harming behaviors or put a damper on the relationships around us. Life doesn't have to be like this. You are the captain to your life. Start making changes today!
(971) 202-9622 View (971) 202-9622
Photo of Acacia Strzelecki, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Acacia Strzelecki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
In my therapeutic setting, it is essential that the space I offer is used to best meet my clients' individual needs. I am committed to creating an environment where my clients feel empowered to focus treatment on their desired areas of therapy, as we collaborate with one another to create an individual treatment plan. My role will be used to hold a space for my clients to be heard and to empower the client in working towards their self-identified goals. I utilize a person-centered approach, as well as encourage clients to explore mindfulness techniques that ultimately allow for increased sense of center and presence.
In my therapeutic setting, it is essential that the space I offer is used to best meet my clients' individual needs. I am committed to creating an environment where my clients feel empowered to focus treatment on their desired areas of therapy, as we collaborate with one another to create an individual treatment plan. My role will be used to hold a space for my clients to be heard and to empower the client in working towards their self-identified goals. I utilize a person-centered approach, as well as encourage clients to explore mindfulness techniques that ultimately allow for increased sense of center and presence.
(484) 209-1819 View (484) 209-1819
Photo of Marisa Schuster - Soul Compass Counseling/Marisa Schuster, LPC, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CGP, CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Soul Compass Counseling/Marisa Schuster, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CGP, CFRC
Verified Verified
Johnstown, PA 15905
I have worked in mental health for over 17 years and have experience with various mental health issues including: PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, conflict resolution, suicidal and homicidal thoughts, self harm/ cutting, anger management, schizophrenia, bipolar, relationship issues and grief.
Hi! Thank you for clicking my profile. Are you stressed and not sure how to handle it? Are you coping with grief ? Do you need support and motivation to meet your goals? Life can be overwhelming at times. I'd like to help you identify your stressors and help bring more calm and happiness back into your life. I offer a safe environment to help support you on your path. If you find yourself repeating the same patterns, call me. What do you have to lose? Too busy to meet in person? I also offer online counseling services. Call or email me for more information.
I have worked in mental health for over 17 years and have experience with various mental health issues including: PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, conflict resolution, suicidal and homicidal thoughts, self harm/ cutting, anger management, schizophrenia, bipolar, relationship issues and grief.
Hi! Thank you for clicking my profile. Are you stressed and not sure how to handle it? Are you coping with grief ? Do you need support and motivation to meet your goals? Life can be overwhelming at times. I'd like to help you identify your stressors and help bring more calm and happiness back into your life. I offer a safe environment to help support you on your path. If you find yourself repeating the same patterns, call me. What do you have to lose? Too busy to meet in person? I also offer online counseling services. Call or email me for more information.
(814) 675-0372 View (814) 675-0372
Photo of Nancy Mehesy - Nancy Mehesy - Jabbok Counseling, LMFT, MAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Mehesy - Jabbok Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MAMFT
Verified Verified
Manheim, PA 17545
I help with many issues including: Fear, panic, anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, ADHD, trauma, fighting, abuse, sexual abuse, sex therapy, affair recovery, cutting, substance abuse, pornography, behavior problems, grief, marriage struggles & more.
I am a fully licensed Marriage & Family Therapist treating individuals, couples and families. I hope to help you rediscover your strengths as well as the patterns that hinder your success and connection to those you care about. I enjoy helping families learn how to grow closer together and navigate the inevitable struggles of life. I use play therapy and toys with children to utilize the natural language of play. If you have experienced trauma, abuse or sexual abuse, I would like to help create a safe place to journey alongside you and care for the wounds that impact your life.
I help with many issues including: Fear, panic, anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, ADHD, trauma, fighting, abuse, sexual abuse, sex therapy, affair recovery, cutting, substance abuse, pornography, behavior problems, grief, marriage struggles & more.
I am a fully licensed Marriage & Family Therapist treating individuals, couples and families. I hope to help you rediscover your strengths as well as the patterns that hinder your success and connection to those you care about. I enjoy helping families learn how to grow closer together and navigate the inevitable struggles of life. I use play therapy and toys with children to utilize the natural language of play. If you have experienced trauma, abuse or sexual abuse, I would like to help create a safe place to journey alongside you and care for the wounds that impact your life.
(717) 945-0401 View (717) 945-0401
Photo of Nicole Schuster, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Schuster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18104
Are you tired of struggling with with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, grief, trauma or self-harming behaviors? Are you going through a major life transition and need support and guidance? I can provide you with a safe space to build the skills to overcome these problems and move closer to the life you want. My primary strategies draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT skills training, Solution-Focused and Strengths Based approaches. We will work together to pursue the goals that are important to you provide you with the skills to accomplish them.
Are you tired of struggling with with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, grief, trauma or self-harming behaviors? Are you going through a major life transition and need support and guidance? I can provide you with a safe space to build the skills to overcome these problems and move closer to the life you want. My primary strategies draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT skills training, Solution-Focused and Strengths Based approaches. We will work together to pursue the goals that are important to you provide you with the skills to accomplish them.
(610) 890-3485 x1 View (610) 890-3485 x1
Photo of Sarah Sweda, MS, NCC, Counselor
Sarah Sweda
Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
First of all, if no one has told you yet today, you’re here and you’re doing a great job. Hi, my name is Sarah and I get it - at any given moment life can be complicated, frustrating, hilarious, heartbreaking, chaotic, or beautiful. Maybe you’re feeling all of it at once. Through the beauty, chaos, joy, or pain, I think it’s important to remember that you don’t have to walk this ever changing road alone. As a licensed practical counselor (LPC) and nationally certified counselor (NCC) practicing in the state of Pennsylvania,
First of all, if no one has told you yet today, you’re here and you’re doing a great job. Hi, my name is Sarah and I get it - at any given moment life can be complicated, frustrating, hilarious, heartbreaking, chaotic, or beautiful. Maybe you’re feeling all of it at once. Through the beauty, chaos, joy, or pain, I think it’s important to remember that you don’t have to walk this ever changing road alone. As a licensed practical counselor (LPC) and nationally certified counselor (NCC) practicing in the state of Pennsylvania,
(484) 292-2294 View (484) 292-2294
Photo of Tena Thomas, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tena Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
State College, PA 16802  (Online Only)
Has fighting with emotions, planning your day around triggers, or feeling distracted and overstimulated become part of your everyday life? Maybe it feels like you can't quite get things right and you're searching for a deeper understanding of what's holding you back. It can be difficult to keep moving, especially when you have frequent symptoms. In our sessions, we will dive deep to uncover the messages you have absorbed from other people and give your inner child some love. We will laugh, cry, and learn together, all while guiding you towards healing.
Has fighting with emotions, planning your day around triggers, or feeling distracted and overstimulated become part of your everyday life? Maybe it feels like you can't quite get things right and you're searching for a deeper understanding of what's holding you back. It can be difficult to keep moving, especially when you have frequent symptoms. In our sessions, we will dive deep to uncover the messages you have absorbed from other people and give your inner child some love. We will laugh, cry, and learn together, all while guiding you towards healing.
(928) 770-6340 View (928) 770-6340
Photo of Mary Ellen Griffin, MA, NCC , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Ellen Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC , LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
Are you struggling with a life transition, stressors, anxiety, or depression? Are you a college student having a difficult time adjusting to their first year in college, a young adult/adult working through career, family, relationship, or personal discovery stressors, or someone who is struggling with depression and finds they have a general lack of motivation?
Are you struggling with a life transition, stressors, anxiety, or depression? Are you a college student having a difficult time adjusting to their first year in college, a young adult/adult working through career, family, relationship, or personal discovery stressors, or someone who is struggling with depression and finds they have a general lack of motivation?
(484) 989-7765 View (484) 989-7765
Photo of Nicole Urbanski, MS
Nicole Urbanski
MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
I truly enjoy working with adolescents and emerging young adults as they transition to adulthood. I also enjoy fostering teen-parent relationships. My specialties include: Teens/Adolescents, Emerging Adults, Anxiety/Depression, Mood Disorders, Teen-Parent Relationships, Executive Functioning, School Issues, LBGTQiA plus, Self-Esteem and Body Positivity.
I truly enjoy working with adolescents and emerging young adults as they transition to adulthood. I also enjoy fostering teen-parent relationships. My specialties include: Teens/Adolescents, Emerging Adults, Anxiety/Depression, Mood Disorders, Teen-Parent Relationships, Executive Functioning, School Issues, LBGTQiA plus, Self-Esteem and Body Positivity.
(267) 361-1756 View (267) 361-1756

See more therapy options for Richfield

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.