Self-Harming Psychiatrists in Salem, OR

Photo of Wunmie Semore, DNP PMH, AGPCNP, MHCA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wunmie Semore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP PMH, AGPCNP, MHCA
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97309  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. OlaWunmie Ogun-Semore DNP, PMHNP-BC, AGPCNP-CB, MHCA Dual Board Certified as a child, family, and adolescent gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 16 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, impatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 9 years.
Hello! I am Dr. OlaWunmie Ogun-Semore DNP, PMHNP-BC, AGPCNP-CB, MHCA Dual Board Certified as a child, family, and adolescent gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 16 years of combined work experience and have acquired an extensive background in telepsychiatry, impatient, and outpatient mental health over the last 9 years.
(509) 213-0132 View (509) 213-0132
Photo of Lauri Cody - Amity Mental Wellness, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amity Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Do you sometimes question whether the way you're feeling is normal? Do you ever question why you are so forgetful, find it difficult to focus, or become distracted easily? Or perhaps it's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning; you've lost motivation to engage in life, and occasionally you cry for no apparent reason. Maybe you have trouble falling asleep at night or wake up frequently leaving you fatigued the next day. Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling uneasy and on edge? Guess what? You do not have to confront these challenges alone! Get in touch with us today for support!
Do you sometimes question whether the way you're feeling is normal? Do you ever question why you are so forgetful, find it difficult to focus, or become distracted easily? Or perhaps it's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning; you've lost motivation to engage in life, and occasionally you cry for no apparent reason. Maybe you have trouble falling asleep at night or wake up frequently leaving you fatigued the next day. Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling uneasy and on edge? Guess what? You do not have to confront these challenges alone! Get in touch with us today for support!
(503) 563-8175 View (503) 563-8175
Photo of Tarra L. Baker, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tarra L. Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
**Accepting New Clients** I am the sole owner and provider of a small practice in South Salem. In my practice, I see clients from 14+ for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses. I offer brief therapy with specific goals, I use an adaptive modality to focus on each individual client's need at the time. In addition, I also prescribe and manage medications both in person at my brick and mortar practice, and given the advances in security and communication via telepsychiatry appointments scheduled via my office staff with established clients as Oregonian law stipulates at least every six months that we meet.
**Accepting New Clients** I am the sole owner and provider of a small practice in South Salem. In my practice, I see clients from 14+ for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses. I offer brief therapy with specific goals, I use an adaptive modality to focus on each individual client's need at the time. In addition, I also prescribe and manage medications both in person at my brick and mortar practice, and given the advances in security and communication via telepsychiatry appointments scheduled via my office staff with established clients as Oregonian law stipulates at least every six months that we meet.
(971) 701-2360 View (971) 701-2360
Photo of Joel Dupuis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joel Dupuis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
Hello, I am Joel Dupuis, a PMHNP in Salem, Oregon. I specialize in psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle suggestions for issues like persistent sadness, mood swings, excessive worry, panic attacks, concentration difficulties, memory problems, social withdrawal, sleep or eating changes, unexplained physical ailments, fatigue, delusions, hallucinations, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, substance use, work or school problems, strained relationships, guilt, worthlessness, loss of interest, agitation, and slowed movements. If you need help, please reach out.
Hello, I am Joel Dupuis, a PMHNP in Salem, Oregon. I specialize in psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle suggestions for issues like persistent sadness, mood swings, excessive worry, panic attacks, concentration difficulties, memory problems, social withdrawal, sleep or eating changes, unexplained physical ailments, fatigue, delusions, hallucinations, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, substance use, work or school problems, strained relationships, guilt, worthlessness, loss of interest, agitation, and slowed movements. If you need help, please reach out.
(503) 339-7689 View (503) 339-7689
Photo of Rebecca Dorsey, MSN, , APRN, PMHNP, FNP , ENP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Dorsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP , ENP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS: OR, MT, & WA** As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS: OR, MT, & WA** As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
(971) 278-9898 View (971) 278-9898
Photo of Melissa Osada - Neupathway (Melissa Osada), APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
(971) 315-4970 View (971) 315-4970
Photo of Abdoulie Jallow - Euhealth Psychiatry & Mental Wellness, PMHNP-B, LPC, CADC-I, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Euhealth Psychiatry & Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, LPC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Accepting New Clients. Welcome to EuHealth Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, your sanctuary for achieving comprehensive mental wellness through medication mgmt & therapy. We serve Oregon and Washington State residents and make your life easier with flexible evening and weekend telehealth appointments. At EuHealth, 'good health' isn't merely a phrase—it's a complete lifestyle with mental peace. Are emotional challenges, sleep disruptions, or issues with focus derailing your progress in school, work, or relationships? Distinctive in my approach, We bring a unique cultural and linguistic dimension to psychiatric care.
Accepting New Clients. Welcome to EuHealth Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, your sanctuary for achieving comprehensive mental wellness through medication mgmt & therapy. We serve Oregon and Washington State residents and make your life easier with flexible evening and weekend telehealth appointments. At EuHealth, 'good health' isn't merely a phrase—it's a complete lifestyle with mental peace. Are emotional challenges, sleep disruptions, or issues with focus derailing your progress in school, work, or relationships? Distinctive in my approach, We bring a unique cultural and linguistic dimension to psychiatric care.
(503) 300-6709 View (503) 300-6709
Photo of Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 11/8/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 11/8/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(503) 850-0267 View (503) 850-0267
Photo of Michael Zaurov, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Zaurov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
Accepting new patients! As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. In my practice, I utilize a combination of psychiatric medication and mindfulness based therapy with an emphasis on integrating emotions, exploring beliefs, and resolving deeply held patterns in the body often formed in early childhood or during traumatic experiences.
Accepting new patients! As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. In my practice, I utilize a combination of psychiatric medication and mindfulness based therapy with an emphasis on integrating emotions, exploring beliefs, and resolving deeply held patterns in the body often formed in early childhood or during traumatic experiences.
(971) 265-6154 View (971) 265-6154
Photo of Nathan Patrick Johnson - Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry), MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
(503) 773-6576 View (503) 773-6576
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(971) 256-8187 View (971) 256-8187
Photo of Kristi Muncie, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristi Muncie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(503) 386-9715 View (503) 386-9715
Photo of Amy Jensen, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
I am licensed in CA, AZ and OR. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2009 and have worked in the mental health field since 2000. I am Board Certified by ANCC. I specialize in adults with chronic and acute mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, anxiety and I have a subspecialty in adults with developmental disabilities/autism. I provide a thorough and ongoing evaluation of previous and current symptoms and stressors and work with each person towards their individualized goal of treatment.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and OR. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2009 and have worked in the mental health field since 2000. I am Board Certified by ANCC. I specialize in adults with chronic and acute mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, anxiety and I have a subspecialty in adults with developmental disabilities/autism. I provide a thorough and ongoing evaluation of previous and current symptoms and stressors and work with each person towards their individualized goal of treatment.
(916) 409-3052 View (916) 409-3052
Photo of Trae Stewart, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trae Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders. Email us for quickest response at psychmatters (at) outlook.com
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders. Email us for quickest response at psychmatters (at) outlook.com
(503) 832-6847 View (503) 832-6847
Photo of Erika Bales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(971) 298-8186 View (971) 298-8186
Photo of Doris Okoli, DNP, MPH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doris Okoli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management virtually for children and adults. With over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field, I am committed to serving those who are seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management virtually for children and adults. With over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field, I am committed to serving those who are seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life.
(503) 922-1818 View (503) 922-1818
Photo of Lauren Brown, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97307  (Online Only)
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients in Oregon 7 and up. Virtual visits allow for you to be in the most comfortable space for you. (Not anyone else). I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management services, as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues and disorders. I have special interests in treatment of ADHD, Adult ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, as well as working together to help you heal.
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients in Oregon 7 and up. Virtual visits allow for you to be in the most comfortable space for you. (Not anyone else). I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management services, as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues and disorders. I have special interests in treatment of ADHD, Adult ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, as well as working together to help you heal.
(541) 236-1592 View (541) 236-1592
Photo of Casandra Moyer, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Casandra Moyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97310  (Online Only)
Dr. Moyer works with children from 5 to 6 years old, adolescents, and all the way to older adults (geriatric) who have autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use problems and more. She provides medication management, health promotion, supportive therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and meditation education, basic principles and information.
Dr. Moyer works with children from 5 to 6 years old, adolescents, and all the way to older adults (geriatric) who have autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use problems and more. She provides medication management, health promotion, supportive therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and meditation education, basic principles and information.
(971) 278-9981 View (971) 278-9981
Photo of Dr. Celina Egemasi - Open Mind Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Open Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
At Open Mind Psychiatry, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with dignity and understanding. Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Doctorate prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Egemasi has over 10 years of experience in providing quality care. She believes in providing holistic, integrative, and individualized care to her clients. She is passionate about helping people with decreasing their stressors.
At Open Mind Psychiatry, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with dignity and understanding. Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Doctorate prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Egemasi has over 10 years of experience in providing quality care. She believes in providing holistic, integrative, and individualized care to her clients. She is passionate about helping people with decreasing their stressors.
(888) 493-0873 View (888) 493-0873
Photo of Elizabeth Catherine Dotson, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Catherine Dotson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Waitlist for new clients
Currently accepting new patients, with appointment availability in approximately 6-8 weeks. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I serve Oregon patients through in-person and telehealth services. My primary focus is on medication management, with therapy provided rarely and only on a case-by-case basis due to limited availability. I do not offer therapy alone. My approach to psychiatric care is holistic, non-judgmental, and collaborative, ensuring a safe, confidential space for discussing thoughts and challenges. I also make treatment recommendations beyond medication for a comprehensive, tailored plan.
Currently accepting new patients, with appointment availability in approximately 6-8 weeks. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I serve Oregon patients through in-person and telehealth services. My primary focus is on medication management, with therapy provided rarely and only on a case-by-case basis due to limited availability. I do not offer therapy alone. My approach to psychiatric care is holistic, non-judgmental, and collaborative, ensuring a safe, confidential space for discussing thoughts and challenges. I also make treatment recommendations beyond medication for a comprehensive, tailored plan.
(971) 328-4643 View (971) 328-4643
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Self-Harming Psychiatrists

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.