Self-Harming Therapists in Maryland

Photo of Leslie C Worley, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie C Worley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olney, MD 20832
How many profiles have you read trying to find a therapist? I'm sure it's been too many. I'll make this quick - if you're suffering from self harm- including all types of cutting, bingeing, restriction, purging, etc, or OCD, you may be able to pause here. I use a very targeted approach that is highly effective if people do the work. If you're willing to do the sometimes painful work, I'm ready to be there with you, experiencing it, witnessing it, sitting in it with you. I come to session as myself, using humor and direct and relational communication.
How many profiles have you read trying to find a therapist? I'm sure it's been too many. I'll make this quick - if you're suffering from self harm- including all types of cutting, bingeing, restriction, purging, etc, or OCD, you may be able to pause here. I use a very targeted approach that is highly effective if people do the work. If you're willing to do the sometimes painful work, I'm ready to be there with you, experiencing it, witnessing it, sitting in it with you. I come to session as myself, using humor and direct and relational communication.
(667) 242-8672 View (667) 242-8672
Photo of Kim Jordan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21204  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelm, people pleasing or knee-jerk reactions to situations that you later regret? Or engaging in negative/ self-harming behaviors, such as binge eating or overspending? You may be struggling with trauma responses and I believe you have the capacity to find healing. I help clients establish internal safety and understand their current coping skills/behaviors. Where necessary we make changes and amplify the strengths you inherently already have. Recovering from trauma doesn’t mean we eliminate every frustration, however we work on the capacity to stay present and calm where appropriate.
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelm, people pleasing or knee-jerk reactions to situations that you later regret? Or engaging in negative/ self-harming behaviors, such as binge eating or overspending? You may be struggling with trauma responses and I believe you have the capacity to find healing. I help clients establish internal safety and understand their current coping skills/behaviors. Where necessary we make changes and amplify the strengths you inherently already have. Recovering from trauma doesn’t mean we eliminate every frustration, however we work on the capacity to stay present and calm where appropriate.
(410) 914-1435 View (410) 914-1435
Photo of Kyra Whittenburg, LCPC, DBT-C
Kyra Whittenburg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, DBT-C
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784  (Online Only)
I work with a wide array of issues including anxiety, deprrssion, bipolar, self-harming behaviors, trauma, suicidal ideation, boarderline personality dissorder, and more.
Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor (LCPC), certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I believe that the therapist-client relationship is the foundation of successful treatment. I view therapy as partnership between myself and the client, creating a trusting and supportive relationship. I see therapy through a dielectric lens of accepting yourself without judgement and changing unhealthy and maladaptive behaviors.
I work with a wide array of issues including anxiety, deprrssion, bipolar, self-harming behaviors, trauma, suicidal ideation, boarderline personality dissorder, and more.
Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor (LCPC), certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I believe that the therapist-client relationship is the foundation of successful treatment. I view therapy as partnership between myself and the client, creating a trusting and supportive relationship. I see therapy through a dielectric lens of accepting yourself without judgement and changing unhealthy and maladaptive behaviors.
(410) 348-1817 View (410) 348-1817
Photo of Brenda Burruss Chavis, M A, LCPC
Brenda Burruss Chavis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, M A, LCPC
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20725  (Online Only)
I believe in the integration of various therapeutic approaches including Rapid Transformation Therapy - RTT, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and am person-centered as well as solution-focused in my delivery. I counsel clients across the spectrum who are dealing with challenges that include: depression; anxiety; suicidal thoughts and self-harming; low self-esteem; adjustment; and grief/loss. I believe one can change their behavior as they transform their thinking. My goal is to address the entire person holistically, mentally, physically and emotionally in guiding toward peace and wellness.
I believe in the integration of various therapeutic approaches including Rapid Transformation Therapy - RTT, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and am person-centered as well as solution-focused in my delivery. I counsel clients across the spectrum who are dealing with challenges that include: depression; anxiety; suicidal thoughts and self-harming; low self-esteem; adjustment; and grief/loss. I believe one can change their behavior as they transform their thinking. My goal is to address the entire person holistically, mentally, physically and emotionally in guiding toward peace and wellness.
(301) 264-6369 View (301) 264-6369
Photo of Empowered Connections, LCSW-C, Counselor
Empowered Connections
Counselor, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunkirk, MD 20754
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide a girl/teen girl expert to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. Two locations to better serve you: Leonardtown and Dunkirk.
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide a girl/teen girl expert to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. Two locations to better serve you: Leonardtown and Dunkirk.
(240) 712-5327 x700 View (240) 712-5327 x700
Photo of E Noel Phoebus, LCPC, LGPAT, ATR, Counselor
E Noel Phoebus
Counselor, LCPC, LGPAT, ATR
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21227  (Online Only)
I am a queer, nonbinary transmasculine human that uses he/they pronouns. My practice is devoted to creative and collaborative work within a safe and non-threatening environment. I am a clinically trained art therapist and counselor who uses an individualized and trauma-informed approach. I specialize in navigating issues that impact children and adolescents, such as depression, anxiety, risky or self-harming behaviors, stress, gender identity, and difficult life transitions. I have experience working in an intensive outpatient setting and now practice individual expressive therapy in a private practice setting.
I am a queer, nonbinary transmasculine human that uses he/they pronouns. My practice is devoted to creative and collaborative work within a safe and non-threatening environment. I am a clinically trained art therapist and counselor who uses an individualized and trauma-informed approach. I specialize in navigating issues that impact children and adolescents, such as depression, anxiety, risky or self-harming behaviors, stress, gender identity, and difficult life transitions. I have experience working in an intensive outpatient setting and now practice individual expressive therapy in a private practice setting.
(443) 839-0217 View (443) 839-0217
Photo of Robyn B Miller, PhD, Psychologist
Robyn B Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
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 Lindsey Worm, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Worm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10+ years of experience treating symptoms related to anxiety, depression, psychological trauma, attachment disorders, mood disorders, grief/loss, suicidality, and self-harming behaviors.
Life is not always easy and no one gets through unscathed. We all have been dealt different life experiences which could be responsible for both physical and mental pain, loss, psychological trauma, and emotional distress in your life. Are you at that point where you feel mentally, emotionally, or physically stuck? Do you care deeply about the people in your life but are feeling uncertain how to strengthen those relationships? You are in the right place. By making the decision to begin therapy, you are not only investing in yourself but your relationships with loved ones as well. It's time to make a change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10+ years of experience treating symptoms related to anxiety, depression, psychological trauma, attachment disorders, mood disorders, grief/loss, suicidality, and self-harming behaviors.
Life is not always easy and no one gets through unscathed. We all have been dealt different life experiences which could be responsible for both physical and mental pain, loss, psychological trauma, and emotional distress in your life. Are you at that point where you feel mentally, emotionally, or physically stuck? Do you care deeply about the people in your life but are feeling uncertain how to strengthen those relationships? You are in the right place. By making the decision to begin therapy, you are not only investing in yourself but your relationships with loved ones as well. It's time to make a change.
(410) 348-7708 View (410) 348-7708
Photo of Megan Veon, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Megan Veon
Art Therapist, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
In these settings, I have had the opportunity to work with people learning to cope with trauma, anxiety, depression, risky or self-harming behaviors, and difficult life transitions.
Accepting new clients at this time. You're ready. You've been thinking about it, and you have a goal in mind. You're looking for a professional to offer guidance, give you tools, and help you stay on track. I am a therapist and art psychotherapist with years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and children with concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, trauma, rape/sexual abuse, and ADHD. I have worked in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs for adolescents at risk, as well as adult inpatient and general outpatient settings for adults, adolescents, and children.
In these settings, I have had the opportunity to work with people learning to cope with trauma, anxiety, depression, risky or self-harming behaviors, and difficult life transitions.
Accepting new clients at this time. You're ready. You've been thinking about it, and you have a goal in mind. You're looking for a professional to offer guidance, give you tools, and help you stay on track. I am a therapist and art psychotherapist with years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and children with concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, trauma, rape/sexual abuse, and ADHD. I have worked in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs for adolescents at risk, as well as adult inpatient and general outpatient settings for adults, adolescents, and children.
(240) 209-9108 View (240) 209-9108
Photo of Anna Georges - Empowered Connections LLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Empowered Connections LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide girl/teen girl experts to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. We’re pleased to announce our expansion into the beautiful downtown Bethesda so check out our new location on our website!
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide girl/teen girl experts to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. We’re pleased to announce our expansion into the beautiful downtown Bethesda so check out our new location on our website!
(240) 546-6182 View (240) 546-6182
Photo of Brenda L. Merrill, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Brenda L. Merrill
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutherville, MD 21093
I have experience working with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, complex trauma, PTSD, spirituality, anger, grief and relationship issues.
Reaching out for help is difficult, but giving yourself the opportunity for emotional healing is an incredible gift to offer yourself and your loved ones. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger can surface from a multitude of stressors: relationships, work, parenting, or a difficult past resurfacing in your present life. I work with people to help create meaning out of difficulty and embrace a healthier life. Through identifying and coming to grips with fears, we are better able to know ourselves so we can connect in healthy ways in existing relationships, as well as build valuable new ones.
I have experience working with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, complex trauma, PTSD, spirituality, anger, grief and relationship issues.
Reaching out for help is difficult, but giving yourself the opportunity for emotional healing is an incredible gift to offer yourself and your loved ones. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger can surface from a multitude of stressors: relationships, work, parenting, or a difficult past resurfacing in your present life. I work with people to help create meaning out of difficulty and embrace a healthier life. Through identifying and coming to grips with fears, we are better able to know ourselves so we can connect in healthy ways in existing relationships, as well as build valuable new ones.
(443) 856-4767 View (443) 856-4767
Photo of Jessica Branch, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Jessica Branch
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I have helped many people with many problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression, grief, divorce, suicidal ideation, self-harming behaviors, relationship difficulties, and family challenges.
Perhaps kindness, attentive listening, and collaboration are the most important elements I can bring to adults in my comfortable therapy room as we work individually. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a respectful environment where you can talk through what is causing you difficulties in your life. Our conversations will focus on reducing the effects and burdens of the problems, so that you will feel more free to live a happier life that is better connected to your hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the future. I can also provide sessions to practice and develop mindfulness skills to battle stress and anxiety symptoms.
I have helped many people with many problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression, grief, divorce, suicidal ideation, self-harming behaviors, relationship difficulties, and family challenges.
Perhaps kindness, attentive listening, and collaboration are the most important elements I can bring to adults in my comfortable therapy room as we work individually. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a respectful environment where you can talk through what is causing you difficulties in your life. Our conversations will focus on reducing the effects and burdens of the problems, so that you will feel more free to live a happier life that is better connected to your hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the future. I can also provide sessions to practice and develop mindfulness skills to battle stress and anxiety symptoms.
(240) 220-9702 View (240) 220-9702
Photo of Betty Bracht - Betty McKay Bracht, LCPC, LCPC, Counselor
Betty McKay Bracht, LCPC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20853
Nightmares, flashbacks, self-harming, or dissociation are all symptoms we can treat with these tools.
My clients seek assistance when they need to change something that's not working for them, to develop self-awareness, or to better understand their own potential. If you are sad or anxious, we will find ways to overcome those difficulties. If you want your future to look different, we will see where changes need to be made today. If something in your past keeps you from being successful now, then we will focus on resolving issues from your past.
Nightmares, flashbacks, self-harming, or dissociation are all symptoms we can treat with these tools.
My clients seek assistance when they need to change something that's not working for them, to develop self-awareness, or to better understand their own potential. If you are sad or anxious, we will find ways to overcome those difficulties. If you want your future to look different, we will see where changes need to be made today. If something in your past keeps you from being successful now, then we will focus on resolving issues from your past.
(301) 355-2257 View (301) 355-2257
Photo of Kristin L Milne-Glasser - Allied Counseling Group, LCADC, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Allied Counseling Group
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Self-injury/ cutting also treated.
In crisis? I specialize in same-day phone/on-site/on-line sessions/ interventions; teens, chronic relapse, Internet/cyber addictions, co-occurring issues, trauma & failure to launch young adult & family conflicts. I am certified for evaluations, treatment, pre-employment/random drug testing. I offer indiv., group sessions, EAP, custody evaluations, case management, anger/stress management, certified domestic violence batterer's intervention counseling, alcohol/drug treatment, including SMART non-12-Step & cognitive therapies. Inpatient evals & referrals & post-discharge continuing care & family therapy targeting "failure to launch" young adult issues. Most insurance accepted.
Self-injury/ cutting also treated.
In crisis? I specialize in same-day phone/on-site/on-line sessions/ interventions; teens, chronic relapse, Internet/cyber addictions, co-occurring issues, trauma & failure to launch young adult & family conflicts. I am certified for evaluations, treatment, pre-employment/random drug testing. I offer indiv., group sessions, EAP, custody evaluations, case management, anger/stress management, certified domestic violence batterer's intervention counseling, alcohol/drug treatment, including SMART non-12-Step & cognitive therapies. Inpatient evals & referrals & post-discharge continuing care & family therapy targeting "failure to launch" young adult issues. Most insurance accepted.
(301) 278-8808 View (301) 278-8808
Photo of Hannah Kim, MS, LCPC, NCC
Hannah Kim
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850  (Online Only)
My areas of practice includes depression, anxiety, and trauma, especially with focus on generational and complex trauma; couples/family relationship issues; peer relationship issues; self-esteem and confidence issues; and self-harming behaviors.
Hannah Kim, MS, LCPC, NCC at Inspirations Counseling provides individual therapy services to adolescents and adults by offering a safe and encouraging space that supports clients through establishing self-empowerment to overcome their challenges in life. I work with individuals who are ready to invest in their mental health and I make it my goal as a therapist to help each individual make healthy behavioral and cognitive changes that increase the quality of life.
My areas of practice includes depression, anxiety, and trauma, especially with focus on generational and complex trauma; couples/family relationship issues; peer relationship issues; self-esteem and confidence issues; and self-harming behaviors.
Hannah Kim, MS, LCPC, NCC at Inspirations Counseling provides individual therapy services to adolescents and adults by offering a safe and encouraging space that supports clients through establishing self-empowerment to overcome their challenges in life. I work with individuals who are ready to invest in their mental health and I make it my goal as a therapist to help each individual make healthy behavioral and cognitive changes that increase the quality of life.
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Photo of Deborah A. Duley - Empowered Connections, LLC , MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Empowered Connections, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Leonardtown, MD 20650
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide 4 girl/teen girl experts to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. We have a new location in Bethesda now! Offering virtual therapy for the entire state of Maryland & DC!
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide 4 girl/teen girl experts to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. We have a new location in Bethesda now! Offering virtual therapy for the entire state of Maryland & DC!
(301) 684-8042 x700 View (301) 684-8042 x700
Photo of Stefanie Gilbert, PhD, Psychologist
Stefanie Gilbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (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 Christine Cantilena Barnes, MS/NCC, LPC, EMDR, CPCS, GA/ MD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Cantilena Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS/NCC, LPC, EMDR, CPCS, GA/ MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815  (Online Only)
Counseling is a healthy commitment and instills courage. It is crucial to find the right fit for yourself, one who can best relate to your issues. Working for Peachford, Ridgeview, and Emory Hospitals, has allowed me to focus on trauma, persons on the spectrum, resistant depression or anxiety, ADHD, and grief. My goal is to serve as an advocate for those desiring healing, proper medical care and learning to use their own voice. Specializing in teens, college students, and adults who suffer from intrusive thoughts, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, divorce, parental alienation, and narcissist abuse.
Counseling is a healthy commitment and instills courage. It is crucial to find the right fit for yourself, one who can best relate to your issues. Working for Peachford, Ridgeview, and Emory Hospitals, has allowed me to focus on trauma, persons on the spectrum, resistant depression or anxiety, ADHD, and grief. My goal is to serve as an advocate for those desiring healing, proper medical care and learning to use their own voice. Specializing in teens, college students, and adults who suffer from intrusive thoughts, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, divorce, parental alienation, and narcissist abuse.
(678) 952-2079 View (678) 952-2079
Photo of Kristin E Scopelliti, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin E Scopelliti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815  (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 Nicole Clute, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Clute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I have years of experience working in outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings. I also have experience working in hospitals and foster care programs with diverse clients. Before deciding to become a therapist, I spent many years studying child development and working as a preschool teacher. I earned my MSW from Simmons University and prior to that, my BS in Family and Human Services from Towson University.
I have years of experience working in outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings. I also have experience working in hospitals and foster care programs with diverse clients. Before deciding to become a therapist, I spent many years studying child development and working as a preschool teacher. I earned my MSW from Simmons University and prior to that, my BS in Family and Human Services from Towson University.
(443) 785-4184 View (443) 785-4184
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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.