Self-Harm

Often those who suffer from borderline personality disorder (BPD) or have a history of abuse, also suffer from self-harm. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is indicated to help relieve these behaviors which stem from finding a way to cope any way one can. While self-harm starts as a way to manage difficult emotions and/or experiences, shame and self-loathing often accompany the behaviors. Our DBT program at HHC&W and training in trauma-informed care is most helpful for this concern.

Whether through cutting, hitting, or using a "good" behavior to the point of hurting ones self, many people will try to soothe distressing emotions or thoughts by hurting themself, usually beginning in their teen years. In session, we will talk through the purpose of the behavior, what it "gives", and find safer alternatives to achieve the same goals, while also working through the pain which led to the self-harm in the first place.

When a person becomes overwhelmed and distressed, they may look to various avenues of relief to reduce their uncomfortable feelings, including self-harm. Self harming behaviors can be seen as a coping skill that a person acquires when they do not have other tools in their toolbox to navigate the challenges they may face. When working to address self harm, the main focus of treatment is finding new coping skills that encourage healing and help keep a person safe when facing distress.

I utilize DBT, an evidence based treatment used to treat emotion dysregulation, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. Clients have significantly decreased, suicidal ideation, and self-harm by increasing skills in four core areas. Diary card mechanics and phone coaching are utilized as part of treatment modality.

Building skills and supports to cope with emotional pain, suffering, and numbness; increasing positive meaningful life experiences

I work from a harm reduction framework with the ultimate goal in my work with clients to be that they utilize safe and consistent skills and tools rather than engaging in self harm. In my work with clients who self harm, my priority is not only their well being but also to hold space and give them grace as they walk along the path to a safe and fulfilling life.

I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for individuals struggling with self-harm. I understand that self-harm often arises as a coping mechanism for overwhelming emotions. My approach focuses on helping you uncover the underlying issues, develop healthier coping strategies, and rebuild self-compassion. Together, we’ll work toward breaking the cycle of self-harm and creating a foundation for healing and emotional well-being.

I have 8 years of experience working with individuals that have significant urges to harm themselves or are experiencing suicidal ideation. I think that recognition, honesty, openness, and having a supportive ally, are really important steps in beginning the path of challenging self harm urges and actions.

I spent two years working in inpatient units with children and teens, and have specific training in suicidality and self-harm. I use a combination of DBT and ACT, along with evidence-based techniques from Cornell's research center on non-suicidal self-injury. Having worked with numerous children and teens experiencing self-harming, I know how scary it is for parents and how important it is for parents to be involved in care.

Self-injury, like many addictive behaviors, can take complete control of the person if left untreated. It can impact self-esteem, relationships, day to day functioning, and lead to more serious or life threatening behaviors as people habituate and need more of the drug. There are various functions that self-injury can serve for people based on level of overwhelm, and uncovering the "why" someone is engaged in these behaviors is one of the crucial steps needed to live fully and harm-free.

Self-harm is something that is often shared about and focused on by my clients. I approach self-harm with a calm, trauma-informed lens that focuses on the safety of the individual as well as addresses the underlying causes and contributing factors. I have worked with clients who engage in self-harm in a variety of settings including immediate crisis response, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization, and outpatient individual and group therapy.

I have personal experience with self-injury and understand its use as a coping skill on a deep level. I can hold space that others might find uncomfortable, and work within my clients' needs as a support.

An area of interest for me, working with adults and adolescents to learn replacement behaviors. Some additional training in this area.

For over a year I worked in an emergency department and adult mental health units with patients struggling with self-harm. Throughout this process, our staff used a series of DBT-tailored interventions to help guide patients through their urges and towards healing. We used similar interventions for those struggling with active suicidality. I am trained in de-escalation and crisis intervention.

Self-harm exists on a wide spectrum from actively physically harming yourself or the neglect of caring for yourself to making unhealthy choices and not understanding why. I have experience processing how self-harm is often fulfilling a need or value and how to improve that relationship with your self.

Contrary to what the media portrays, self-harm is NOT for attention. Self-harm is a coping strategy used by people who are hurting, feel misunderstood, or feel they don't have any other way to express their emotions. Let me help you first find safe replacement strategies, then help you conquer the situations that brought you to self-harm in the first place.

Moving From Self-Harm to Self-Care: Learn coping strategies to conquer harmful habits. *Are you struggling with self-harm, such as suicidal thoughts, self-injury, substance abuse, toxic relationships, or other harmful behaviors? *Have you tried to make a change on your own, but had trouble following through? Get support in crafting your own self-care plan to live a healthier and more satisfying life.