Self-Harming Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Kristin E Scopelliti, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin E Scopelliti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Kristin’s expertise is in working with adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, adjustment difficulties, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, depression, self-harming behaviors, disordered eating, and trauma and loss.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination.” Do you find yourself wondering what you can do to feel better—less anxious, more confident, even happy? It seems like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work, at least not for very long. You may be able to support others yet you fall short on supporting yourself. You no longer feel like yourself and worry that it could get worse. Imagine what it would feel like not to constantly worry and to be confident in your ability to handle challenging situations. Therapy is a step in practicing self-awareness and self-care.
Kristin’s expertise is in working with adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, adjustment difficulties, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, depression, self-harming behaviors, disordered eating, and trauma and loss.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination.” Do you find yourself wondering what you can do to feel better—less anxious, more confident, even happy? It seems like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work, at least not for very long. You may be able to support others yet you fall short on supporting yourself. You no longer feel like yourself and worry that it could get worse. Imagine what it would feel like not to constantly worry and to be confident in your ability to handle challenging situations. Therapy is a step in practicing self-awareness and self-care.
(202) 915-7212 View (202) 915-7212
Photo of Deborah P Hecker, PhD, Counselor
Deborah P Hecker
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
(202) 410-2671 View (202) 410-2671
Photo of Brenda Edmonds - Brenda Edmonds – Addictions, Anxiety, Depression, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Edmonds – Addictions, Anxiety, Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Brenda Edmonds is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in DC that specializes in Addiction, Adoption, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Child & Parenting Needs, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities, Medication Management, Self-Harming, Stress, Trauma & PTSD, Mental Health, Mood Disorders, and many other areas. Brenda’s 20 years of clinical experience has been widely dedicated to working with children and adults experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
Brenda Edmonds is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in DC that specializes in Addiction, Adoption, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Child & Parenting Needs, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities, Medication Management, Self-Harming, Stress, Trauma & PTSD, Mental Health, Mood Disorders, and many other areas. Brenda’s 20 years of clinical experience has been widely dedicated to working with children and adults experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
(202) 998-4725 View (202) 998-4725
Photo of Michelle Kukla - Healthy Living Counseling Center, PsyD, Psychologist
Healthy Living Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Her Trauma Recovery Clinic practices with gentleness & compassion bringing cutting edge therapies to help free you from your past.
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
Her Trauma Recovery Clinic practices with gentleness & compassion bringing cutting edge therapies to help free you from your past.
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
(847) 423-8223 View (847) 423-8223
Photo of Robyn B Miller, PhD, Psychologist
Robyn B Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Welcome to my practice. I am a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist and I work with adolescents and adults in a warm, collaborative, and relational style. I am a generalist, with special interests in the treatment of depression, eating disorders, body image issues, as well as self-harming behavior and trauma. My practice focuses on helping individuals work through transitions in life, such as teen and young adult struggles, relationship issues, and parenting issues. I have launched a Menopause Info & Discussion Group to empower women with education and support during this life stage.
Welcome to my practice. I am a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist and I work with adolescents and adults in a warm, collaborative, and relational style. I am a generalist, with special interests in the treatment of depression, eating disorders, body image issues, as well as self-harming behavior and trauma. My practice focuses on helping individuals work through transitions in life, such as teen and young adult struggles, relationship issues, and parenting issues. I have launched a Menopause Info & Discussion Group to empower women with education and support during this life stage.
(301) 656-5111 View (301) 656-5111
Photo of Stefanie Gilbert, PhD, Psychologist
Stefanie Gilbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
People can experience relief from anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors by changing the way they respond to stressful and overwhelming situations.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.
People can experience relief from anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors by changing the way they respond to stressful and overwhelming situations.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.
(240) 202-1838 View (240) 202-1838
Photo of Alice Zafiris - Peak Wellness Group
Peak Wellness Group
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20057
Our approach is integrative; we utilize the most effective, cutting-edge treatment approaches, guided by a humanistic perspective which emphasizes the importance of viewing each client as the unique individual that they are.
At Peak Wellness Group, we aim to help the Metropolitan DC community achieve peak levels of functioning and experience an enhanced sense of well-being through the delivery of quality psychological services. Prioritizing collaboration, convenience, and innovation, we strive to simplify the process of obtaining psychological wellness services and to deliver personalized, evidence-based care that considers each individual's needs, goals, and values.
Our approach is integrative; we utilize the most effective, cutting-edge treatment approaches, guided by a humanistic perspective which emphasizes the importance of viewing each client as the unique individual that they are.
At Peak Wellness Group, we aim to help the Metropolitan DC community achieve peak levels of functioning and experience an enhanced sense of well-being through the delivery of quality psychological services. Prioritizing collaboration, convenience, and innovation, we strive to simplify the process of obtaining psychological wellness services and to deliver personalized, evidence-based care that considers each individual's needs, goals, and values.
(571) 200-4478 View (571) 200-4478
Photo of Marjorie Jean, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marjorie Jean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20017  (Online Only)
The weight of this world is already so disorienting, and you’ve worked so hard, yet you still find yourself doubting yourself as the internal goalpost keeps shifting. You're caught in a cycle of self-doubt and fear. Despite knowing what you want, you struggle to reconcile your thoughts and feelings, feeling stuck in old patterns that seem impossible to break. Maybe you're contemplating leaving a stressful job, moving to a new town, cutting ties with those who hurt you, and talking it all through in therapy, and while those steps have helped improve things, you noticed that the old patterns seem to be omnipresent.
The weight of this world is already so disorienting, and you’ve worked so hard, yet you still find yourself doubting yourself as the internal goalpost keeps shifting. You're caught in a cycle of self-doubt and fear. Despite knowing what you want, you struggle to reconcile your thoughts and feelings, feeling stuck in old patterns that seem impossible to break. Maybe you're contemplating leaving a stressful job, moving to a new town, cutting ties with those who hurt you, and talking it all through in therapy, and while those steps have helped improve things, you noticed that the old patterns seem to be omnipresent.
(240) 724-8062 View (240) 724-8062
Photo of Timothy Meyer - Lukin Center for Psychotherapy- Bergen County, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lukin Center for Psychotherapy- Bergen County
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001
As one of the largest psychotherapy practices in Northern New Jersey, Lukin Center offers you or your loved one more options and therapy modalities so you can find the best clinician and treatment for you. Our clinicians practice at the top of their fields, with many specializing in specific age groups, life stages, or relationships. In order to bring the highest quality, evidence-based services to our clients, we truly live by the power of life-long learning. This dedication to the ongoing training of our staff enables us to provide our clients with the most cutting-edge and expert treatment available.
As one of the largest psychotherapy practices in Northern New Jersey, Lukin Center offers you or your loved one more options and therapy modalities so you can find the best clinician and treatment for you. Our clinicians practice at the top of their fields, with many specializing in specific age groups, life stages, or relationships. In order to bring the highest quality, evidence-based services to our clients, we truly live by the power of life-long learning. This dedication to the ongoing training of our staff enables us to provide our clients with the most cutting-edge and expert treatment available.
(201) 701-3902 View (201) 701-3902
Photo of Jawara Cooley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jawara Cooley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
I believe you are the expert on your life. It is my job to guide you through the therapy process so that you may reach your desired outcomes. My clinical areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, identity, and LGBT+ concerns. The services I provide are rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I utilize multiple modalities in my practice, tailoring treatment to the needs of the client. I also use various techniques to help you reach your desired goals.
I believe you are the expert on your life. It is my job to guide you through the therapy process so that you may reach your desired outcomes. My clinical areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, identity, and LGBT+ concerns. The services I provide are rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I utilize multiple modalities in my practice, tailoring treatment to the needs of the client. I also use various techniques to help you reach your desired goals.
(202) 875-8810 View (202) 875-8810
Photo of Suzanne Miller Friedman, PhD, Psychologist
Suzanne Miller Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
It's essential for you to feel understood by your therapist. I strive to create an environment characterized by safety, trust, mutual respect, and even humor. The bond we form allows you to take the emotional risks necessary for deep exploration and enduring change. I offer a free consultation to help you decide if we'd be a good fit. Please join me for a cup of tea to share your story, chart a course for how we might work together, and ask any questions about therapy and how I can help you.
It's essential for you to feel understood by your therapist. I strive to create an environment characterized by safety, trust, mutual respect, and even humor. The bond we form allows you to take the emotional risks necessary for deep exploration and enduring change. I offer a free consultation to help you decide if we'd be a good fit. Please join me for a cup of tea to share your story, chart a course for how we might work together, and ask any questions about therapy and how I can help you.
(202) 301-3529 View (202) 301-3529
Photo of Candace Wheeler - Restoration 1:99, LPC, CDBT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Restoration 1:99
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CDBT, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
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Photo of Emily Rizzo - The Counseling Center of Washington, DC, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Counseling Center of Washington, DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
The mission of the Counseling Center Group is to offer expert counseling therapy services delivered by experienced therapists with diverse specialties. Our approach is rooted in the belief that equipping clients with effective tools can enhance their daily lives. As a result, we strive to empower our clients to live their lives independently, without relying on prolonged therapy.
The mission of the Counseling Center Group is to offer expert counseling therapy services delivered by experienced therapists with diverse specialties. Our approach is rooted in the belief that equipping clients with effective tools can enhance their daily lives. As a result, we strive to empower our clients to live their lives independently, without relying on prolonged therapy.
(301) 900-3642 View (301) 900-3642
Photo of Kortnie Parks - Beneath the Surface Therapy , LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beneath the Surface Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052  (Online Only)
Ready to stop carrying the weight of it all alone? Let me help! You may be known for having it all together—balancing work, life, and relationships—but inside, you struggle to find the support you need. I specialize in helping high-achieving BIPOC women and young professionals who face 'high-functioning' anxiety, depression, and stress. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking self-discovery, or work-life harmony. I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can finally be vulnerable and heard. Together, we’ll uncover what’s beneath the mask, address those hidden emotional wounds, to help you heal and thrive.
Ready to stop carrying the weight of it all alone? Let me help! You may be known for having it all together—balancing work, life, and relationships—but inside, you struggle to find the support you need. I specialize in helping high-achieving BIPOC women and young professionals who face 'high-functioning' anxiety, depression, and stress. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking self-discovery, or work-life harmony. I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can finally be vulnerable and heard. Together, we’ll uncover what’s beneath the mask, address those hidden emotional wounds, to help you heal and thrive.
(877) 566-1744 View (877) 566-1744
Photo of Courtney Conn - The Wake Kendall Group PLLC, Psychologist
The Wake Kendall Group PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
The Wake Kendall Group, PLLC is a private practice in Washington, DC offering a wide variety of psychological services to our community. Our services include psychotherapy for children, adults and couples, comprehensive outpatient DBT for adults, and psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. Our team of highly skilled clinicians sees clients of all ages and stages of life for a broad range of concerns.
The Wake Kendall Group, PLLC is a private practice in Washington, DC offering a wide variety of psychological services to our community. Our services include psychotherapy for children, adults and couples, comprehensive outpatient DBT for adults, and psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. Our team of highly skilled clinicians sees clients of all ages and stages of life for a broad range of concerns.
(866) 644-1094 x31 View (866) 644-1094 x31
Photo of Susannah Stein - Susannah Stein LLC, LICSW , LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susannah Stein LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Susannah. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I work through a trauma-informed, strengths-based framework, utilizing techniques of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness to support healthy coping with life’s challenges and stressors. My passion is helping teens and young adults navigate life transitions, which can include experiences of grief and loss, trauma, depression and anxiety. My goal is to provide an empathic presence to support clients through times of challenge as well as possibility, with an emphasis on skill building so that clients build the capacity to cope effectively and meet their own goals.
Greetings! My name is Susannah. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I work through a trauma-informed, strengths-based framework, utilizing techniques of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness to support healthy coping with life’s challenges and stressors. My passion is helping teens and young adults navigate life transitions, which can include experiences of grief and loss, trauma, depression and anxiety. My goal is to provide an empathic presence to support clients through times of challenge as well as possibility, with an emphasis on skill building so that clients build the capacity to cope effectively and meet their own goals.
(202) 978-5308 View (202) 978-5308
Photo of Stephen Holland, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephen Holland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
(202) 759-2884 View (202) 759-2884
Photo of Bernadette Boozer, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bernadette Boozer
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I am well versed and experienced in working with a variety of populations. My specialty focuses on adults who experienced trauma while in foster care; adults experiencing separation and divorce, depression, anxiety, caregiver, and compassion fatigue, newfound-COVID stressors, grief, and loss. My clinical approach encompasses several different evidence-based therapeutic modalities and is delivered in a compassionate and meaningful way.
I am well versed and experienced in working with a variety of populations. My specialty focuses on adults who experienced trauma while in foster care; adults experiencing separation and divorce, depression, anxiety, caregiver, and compassion fatigue, newfound-COVID stressors, grief, and loss. My clinical approach encompasses several different evidence-based therapeutic modalities and is delivered in a compassionate and meaningful way.
(855) 784-0757 View (855) 784-0757
Photo of Dr. Sadaf Lotfalian, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sadaf Lotfalian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20017  (Online Only)
At times the road to your fullest life is found by moving through trauma, rage, loss, and betrayal. How we cope with those hardships is important. Therapy can help you become more aware of suffering, the sources that are causing it, and tools to help you overcome it. I invite us to imagine a life beyond fear, shame, and regret. One where you feel your innate wisdom, compassion, and capacity, to live life more fully despite all of its complexities.
At times the road to your fullest life is found by moving through trauma, rage, loss, and betrayal. How we cope with those hardships is important. Therapy can help you become more aware of suffering, the sources that are causing it, and tools to help you overcome it. I invite us to imagine a life beyond fear, shame, and regret. One where you feel your innate wisdom, compassion, and capacity, to live life more fully despite all of its complexities.
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Photo of Allyson Watson, LMFT, LCMFT, MPM, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allyson Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT, MPM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Life is too short and you only have one life to live!! No matter what life has thrown at you, you deserve a life full of peace, balance, abundance and joy; where you find excitement in waking up to new possibilities. I am here to help you map it out, so let’s talk about it! Therapy is interactional and not one-sided; you are the expert of your life, so let me know how I can help. We can work on achieving goals, dreams, aspirations, or solutions to aversive life situations and try to find ways to enjoy the process. Who knows, you may discover new potentials and possibilities within yourself.
Life is too short and you only have one life to live!! No matter what life has thrown at you, you deserve a life full of peace, balance, abundance and joy; where you find excitement in waking up to new possibilities. I am here to help you map it out, so let’s talk about it! Therapy is interactional and not one-sided; you are the expert of your life, so let me know how I can help. We can work on achieving goals, dreams, aspirations, or solutions to aversive life situations and try to find ways to enjoy the process. Who knows, you may discover new potentials and possibilities within yourself.
(301) 215-3247 View (301) 215-3247
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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.