Self-Harming Therapists in Century City, CA

Photo of Patricia Ann Matthew, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Ann Matthew
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Century City, CA 90067  (Online Only)
Life is not always a straight line and the dots don't always connect in order and yet you can work through life transitions and THRIVE. I want to help you discover your strengths that you already have and find the life that is purposeful, meaningful and have more joy. Please call me and let's talk about how I can help you through life's stressors, whether it's work/life balance, relationships, health, interpersonal, depression, grief, or anger. I am here as your support, advocate, and sounding board in a trusting environment.
Life is not always a straight line and the dots don't always connect in order and yet you can work through life transitions and THRIVE. I want to help you discover your strengths that you already have and find the life that is purposeful, meaningful and have more joy. Please call me and let's talk about how I can help you through life's stressors, whether it's work/life balance, relationships, health, interpersonal, depression, grief, or anger. I am here as your support, advocate, and sounding board in a trusting environment.
(323) 988-0597 View (323) 988-0597
Photo of Jenny Taitz, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Jenny Taitz
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Century City, CA 90067
In my mind, the ideal psychologist is validating, transparent, practical, and experienced. As both a board certified CBT and DBT therapist, I teach tangible tools to get "unstuck" based on scientific research within a nonjudgmental, warm, environment. My hope is to help you move toward the life you want and create some distance from the thoughts and behaviors that might get in your way. My goal isn't only to help you feel better, but to holistically live better. I really enjoy working with college and graduate students, people pursuing life changes (such as career, relationship), and individuals facing medical problems.
In my mind, the ideal psychologist is validating, transparent, practical, and experienced. As both a board certified CBT and DBT therapist, I teach tangible tools to get "unstuck" based on scientific research within a nonjudgmental, warm, environment. My hope is to help you move toward the life you want and create some distance from the thoughts and behaviors that might get in your way. My goal isn't only to help you feel better, but to holistically live better. I really enjoy working with college and graduate students, people pursuing life changes (such as career, relationship), and individuals facing medical problems.
(646) 798-1322 View (646) 798-1322
Photo of Gabriela Pastor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabriela Pastor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Century City, CA 90067
Thank you for visiting my page. I work with individuals, couples and groups. I use a psychodynamic frame, however, I will meet the client with the therapeutic tool most needed. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe space which enables a transformational and healing experience that promotes self-understanding, self-compassion, differentiation, individuation and congruency. I work with clients who present with trauma, depression, anxiety, relational issues, anger issues, existential issues and I specialize in clients who have eating disorders/disordered eating. I conduct therapy in English, Spanish and Portuguese.
Thank you for visiting my page. I work with individuals, couples and groups. I use a psychodynamic frame, however, I will meet the client with the therapeutic tool most needed. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe space which enables a transformational and healing experience that promotes self-understanding, self-compassion, differentiation, individuation and congruency. I work with clients who present with trauma, depression, anxiety, relational issues, anger issues, existential issues and I specialize in clients who have eating disorders/disordered eating. I conduct therapy in English, Spanish and Portuguese.
(310) 564-0758 View (310) 564-0758
Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Cassidy Blair
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Century City, CA 90067
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Elizabeth Danielle Mead, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Danielle Mead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Century City, CA 90067
Do you find yourself struggling with Anxiety, Depression, gender or sexual identity, grief/loss, or acute/chronic medical illness? The desire to feel better about ourselves is a part of our intrinsic being. I can be there as a support and sounding board for you, your loved ones & family. With the goal of accepting your perfectly imperfect self, we can work effectively with each other to find your joy, or at the very least, how to make it through each day to the next. Discovering that you are deserving and important can be life changing and attainable.
Do you find yourself struggling with Anxiety, Depression, gender or sexual identity, grief/loss, or acute/chronic medical illness? The desire to feel better about ourselves is a part of our intrinsic being. I can be there as a support and sounding board for you, your loved ones & family. With the goal of accepting your perfectly imperfect self, we can work effectively with each other to find your joy, or at the very least, how to make it through each day to the next. Discovering that you are deserving and important can be life changing and attainable.
(424) 349-4574 View (424) 349-4574

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sylvanna M. Vargas, PhD, MPH, Psychologist
Sylvanna M. Vargas
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Dr. Vargas is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescent and adult depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and anxiety. She has expertise working with youths and adults struggling with suicidal and self-harming thoughts and behaviors, with the goal of identifying and aligning with a life worth living. Dr. Vargas works with people experiencing the consequences of minoritization, including racial trauma and minority stress. She is an LGBTQ affirming provider and provides gender affirming therapy.
Dr. Vargas is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescent and adult depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and anxiety. She has expertise working with youths and adults struggling with suicidal and self-harming thoughts and behaviors, with the goal of identifying and aligning with a life worth living. Dr. Vargas works with people experiencing the consequences of minoritization, including racial trauma and minority stress. She is an LGBTQ affirming provider and provides gender affirming therapy.
(424) 352-8896 View (424) 352-8896
Photo of Adella Jaeger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adella Jaeger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
(702) 710-0826 View (702) 710-0826
Photo of Arielle Hanien, Rabbi, PsyD, SEP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Arielle Hanien
Pre-Licensed Professional, Rabbi, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I weave cutting-edge somatic modalities, traditional psychology, neuroscience, and spirituality, into an empowering therapeutic experience tailored to support your goals.
You deserve the support you need. When we are struggling with anxiety, PTSD, personal or relationship transitions, life can feel especially difficult. Experiences of trauma, changes in our identity and relationships, legal or learning challenges can sometimes be overwhelming--even long after they happen. Often, beliefs that once provided guidance or comfort change, leaving us feel even more lost at sea. Yet deep within, we all have access to a feeling of our aliveness that can help us navigate these rough spots. Our work offers you safety and caring to bolster your strengths, recover your joy, and find your inner knowing once again.
I weave cutting-edge somatic modalities, traditional psychology, neuroscience, and spirituality, into an empowering therapeutic experience tailored to support your goals.
You deserve the support you need. When we are struggling with anxiety, PTSD, personal or relationship transitions, life can feel especially difficult. Experiences of trauma, changes in our identity and relationships, legal or learning challenges can sometimes be overwhelming--even long after they happen. Often, beliefs that once provided guidance or comfort change, leaving us feel even more lost at sea. Yet deep within, we all have access to a feeling of our aliveness that can help us navigate these rough spots. Our work offers you safety and caring to bolster your strengths, recover your joy, and find your inner knowing once again.
(424) 397-1961 View (424) 397-1961
Photo of Jason Murphy, LMFT, EMDR, ICAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, ICAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
“I have a deep belief in treating the whole human being and not just the symptom whether it be physical, psychological or spiritual. Both my skill as a therapist and my knowledge of East/ West Psychology aids me in providing essential knowledge and techniques for clients to affect change. I have been in the fields of therapy and mindfulness meditation for the last 20 years and in that time I have focused on integrating what works for those clients I have served. My work is informed by over two decades of exploration into the heart and mind. From the monasteries of Asia to the lecture halls of cutting edge American Universities.
“I have a deep belief in treating the whole human being and not just the symptom whether it be physical, psychological or spiritual. Both my skill as a therapist and my knowledge of East/ West Psychology aids me in providing essential knowledge and techniques for clients to affect change. I have been in the fields of therapy and mindfulness meditation for the last 20 years and in that time I have focused on integrating what works for those clients I have served. My work is informed by over two decades of exploration into the heart and mind. From the monasteries of Asia to the lecture halls of cutting edge American Universities.
(831) 777-6253 View (831) 777-6253
Photo of Vicki Underwood, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
I have worked with various populations and issues, including forensics, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, transgender, gay & lesbian, adolescents, crisis, self-harming behaviors, couples & families.
We all struggle at times and our struggles are our own, do not compare what may feel catastrophic to you to what others are dealing with. I have been practicing for 15 years and revolve my practice around person-centered therapy; non-judgment, genuineness & positive regard. I will accept you for who you are and we will start where you are. My goal is to help you reach your goals. I find that humor, compassion, and authenticity allow my clients to feel comfortable and progress at the same time. Since 2010, I have provided intensive therapy at institutional, residential, and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.
I have worked with various populations and issues, including forensics, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, transgender, gay & lesbian, adolescents, crisis, self-harming behaviors, couples & families.
We all struggle at times and our struggles are our own, do not compare what may feel catastrophic to you to what others are dealing with. I have been practicing for 15 years and revolve my practice around person-centered therapy; non-judgment, genuineness & positive regard. I will accept you for who you are and we will start where you are. My goal is to help you reach your goals. I find that humor, compassion, and authenticity allow my clients to feel comfortable and progress at the same time. Since 2010, I have provided intensive therapy at institutional, residential, and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.
(661) 215-6319 View (661) 215-6319
Photo of Albert Bonfil - Dr. Albert Bonfil, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Albert Bonfil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I’m an expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. As a clinical faculty member in UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program, I train graduate students in evidence-based therapy. I am also the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, a group practice dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy. I have a deep, personal commitment to providing the most cutting-edge, science-based therapy interventions to my clients so they get better faster.
I’m an expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. As a clinical faculty member in UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program, I train graduate students in evidence-based therapy. I am also the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, a group practice dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy. I have a deep, personal commitment to providing the most cutting-edge, science-based therapy interventions to my clients so they get better faster.
(424) 396-6501 x1 View (424) 396-6501 x1
Photo of Kristine Tye, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine Tye
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Worry, frustration, or emotional exhaustion may be normal, but they do not have to be the norm. Rather than working harder, let's do what works for you. My approach provides you (or your teenager) with experiences and tools that heal, reduce conflict and move life forward... beyond the limitations of anxiety, stress or trauma. I have extensive experience guiding my clients to heal patterns of worry and stress, anxiety and depression, conflict in communication, social anxiety, OCD, C/PTSD, self-harming and eating disorders.
Worry, frustration, or emotional exhaustion may be normal, but they do not have to be the norm. Rather than working harder, let's do what works for you. My approach provides you (or your teenager) with experiences and tools that heal, reduce conflict and move life forward... beyond the limitations of anxiety, stress or trauma. I have extensive experience guiding my clients to heal patterns of worry and stress, anxiety and depression, conflict in communication, social anxiety, OCD, C/PTSD, self-harming and eating disorders.
(818) 696-5174 View (818) 696-5174
Photo of Marlene Maria Cantu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marlene Maria Cantu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am also trained in Trauma Focused CBT (TFCBT), and experienced in helping individuals deal with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harming, relationship counseling and parenting.
Life comes with challenges. Whether you are faced with difficulties in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and/or wish to overcome trauma, seeking therapeutic assistance is a healthy step toward evolving into a better version of yourself.
I am also trained in Trauma Focused CBT (TFCBT), and experienced in helping individuals deal with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harming, relationship counseling and parenting.
Life comes with challenges. Whether you are faced with difficulties in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and/or wish to overcome trauma, seeking therapeutic assistance is a healthy step toward evolving into a better version of yourself.
(559) 245-5490 View (559) 245-5490
Photo of Joshua Carroll, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Carroll
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I work with adults, children, teens, and families to address relational conflicts, behavioral and academic problems, and general family dysfunction. I also support parents, and work with them to better understand the underlying causes of their children's acting-out, self-harming, and/or self-isolating behaviors.
I work with adults, children, teens, and families to address relational conflicts, behavioral and academic problems, and general family dysfunction. I also support parents, and work with them to better understand the underlying causes of their children's acting-out, self-harming, and/or self-isolating behaviors.
(213) 984-4684 View (213) 984-4684
Photo of Elle Michel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elle Michel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
In my approach to therapy I pull from cutting-edge neuroscience, using therapeutic modalities that are clinically proven to be effective.
Do you struggle with trauma, relationships, and anxiety, or worry that you might be beyond help? Give me a call--I've been there and, through my own healing, as well as extensive training and experience, I'm uniquely fit to help others. I specialize in healing complex trauma, compulsive disorders, and borderline personality disorder, using EMDR, DBT, and Brainspotting to achieve tangible results quickly. My clients often tell me that no other therapist has helped them in the way that I have, and that they finally have the tools they need to let go of trauma and thrive.
In my approach to therapy I pull from cutting-edge neuroscience, using therapeutic modalities that are clinically proven to be effective.
Do you struggle with trauma, relationships, and anxiety, or worry that you might be beyond help? Give me a call--I've been there and, through my own healing, as well as extensive training and experience, I'm uniquely fit to help others. I specialize in healing complex trauma, compulsive disorders, and borderline personality disorder, using EMDR, DBT, and Brainspotting to achieve tangible results quickly. My clients often tell me that no other therapist has helped them in the way that I have, and that they finally have the tools they need to let go of trauma and thrive.
(310) 340-1746 View (310) 340-1746
Photo of James A. Moore, LMFT, EMDR, CCATP, Marriage & Family Therapist
James A. Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, CCATP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
My work with couples, founded on the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy, utilizes cutting-edge research in neuroscience, attachment theory & arousal regulation.
"Time does not heal all wounds; it just gives them space to sink into the subconscious, where they continue to impact your emotions and behavior. What heals is going inward, loving yourself, accepting yourself, listening to your needs, addressing your attachments and emotional history and following your intuition" (Yung Pueblo). I partner with my clients to help them find their voice, tell their story, re-engage their strengths and cultivate new ways to stay mindful and grounded—no matter what life throws at them. I work with couples and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship challenges and LGBTQI-related issues.
My work with couples, founded on the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy, utilizes cutting-edge research in neuroscience, attachment theory & arousal regulation.
"Time does not heal all wounds; it just gives them space to sink into the subconscious, where they continue to impact your emotions and behavior. What heals is going inward, loving yourself, accepting yourself, listening to your needs, addressing your attachments and emotional history and following your intuition" (Yung Pueblo). I partner with my clients to help them find their voice, tell their story, re-engage their strengths and cultivate new ways to stay mindful and grounded—no matter what life throws at them. I work with couples and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship challenges and LGBTQI-related issues.
(323) 870-9289 View (323) 870-9289
Photo of Orli Peter, PhD, BCN, DABPS, Psychologist
Orli Peter
Psychologist, PhD, BCN, DABPS
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Welcome to Accelerated Psychology. I created this practice to offer cutting edge psychotherapies and neuoscientific treatments in a warm and compassionate environment. Integrating neuroscientific and psychotherapeutic treatments is often the most effective path to psychological healing and growth, because the two approaches work synergistically to create a brain state that is most receptive to treatment. For over 25 years, I have specialized in helping those who suffer from mild or severe anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, ADHD, or post-traumatic stress, and helping survivors and witnesses of terror from around the world.
Welcome to Accelerated Psychology. I created this practice to offer cutting edge psychotherapies and neuoscientific treatments in a warm and compassionate environment. Integrating neuroscientific and psychotherapeutic treatments is often the most effective path to psychological healing and growth, because the two approaches work synergistically to create a brain state that is most receptive to treatment. For over 25 years, I have specialized in helping those who suffer from mild or severe anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, ADHD, or post-traumatic stress, and helping survivors and witnesses of terror from around the world.
(310) 776-6838 View (310) 776-6838
Photo of Allison Perks, L, C, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Perks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As an interactive, solution-focused therapist, I integrate complementary, cutting edge methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach to help clients effectively address personal life challenges.
As a trauma focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your potential and lead a joyful life. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges. I am a therapist based in Los Angeles with over twenty five years of experience. I have worked in hospitals, mental health, and community agency settings providing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, and program management. Allow me to tailor a treatment plan to meet your specific needs, utilizing my years of experience and the specialized training I have received. I look forward to working with you.
As an interactive, solution-focused therapist, I integrate complementary, cutting edge methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach to help clients effectively address personal life challenges.
As a trauma focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your potential and lead a joyful life. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges. I am a therapist based in Los Angeles with over twenty five years of experience. I have worked in hospitals, mental health, and community agency settings providing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, and program management. Allow me to tailor a treatment plan to meet your specific needs, utilizing my years of experience and the specialized training I have received. I look forward to working with you.
(310) 846-8189 View (310) 846-8189
Photo of Julia Xiao-Rodriguez, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julia Xiao-Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Julia Xiao-Rodriguez provides supervised evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) for children, adolescents, and young adults with complex diagnostic presentations, including co-occurring anxiety, mood, personality, substance use and eating disorders. She specializes in delivering Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for high-risk, suicidal, and self-harming youth and their families. She is especially interested in walking alongside parents as they navigate parenting challenges and collaboration with providers. Julia is committed to providing identity-informed, culturally responsive and values-based interventions.
Julia Xiao-Rodriguez provides supervised evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) for children, adolescents, and young adults with complex diagnostic presentations, including co-occurring anxiety, mood, personality, substance use and eating disorders. She specializes in delivering Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for high-risk, suicidal, and self-harming youth and their families. She is especially interested in walking alongside parents as they navigate parenting challenges and collaboration with providers. Julia is committed to providing identity-informed, culturally responsive and values-based interventions.
(424) 401-5795 View (424) 401-5795
Photo of Meagan Rose Star Bond - Star Rose Bond, Trauma Specialist - LCSW, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Star Rose Bond, Trauma Specialist - LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Expect to receive a cutting edge, psychodynamic skillset; paired with a neuroplastic approach for change.
Seasoned trauma specialist & psychotherapist dedicated to co-creating a meaningful healing journey for individuals and couples who are feeling stuck, lost and trapped in dysfunctional patterns. I offer a variety of different modalities including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to aid in the recovery of many common mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addiction, etc. Additionally, I am committed to providing innovative programing as well as a practical skillset, specially designed to address personal limitations that often manifest in low self-esteem, relationship challenges and declined mental health.
Expect to receive a cutting edge, psychodynamic skillset; paired with a neuroplastic approach for change.
Seasoned trauma specialist & psychotherapist dedicated to co-creating a meaningful healing journey for individuals and couples who are feeling stuck, lost and trapped in dysfunctional patterns. I offer a variety of different modalities including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to aid in the recovery of many common mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addiction, etc. Additionally, I am committed to providing innovative programing as well as a practical skillset, specially designed to address personal limitations that often manifest in low self-esteem, relationship challenges and declined mental health.
(828) 373-8526 View (828) 373-8526

See more therapy options for Century City

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.