Self-Harming Therapists in Woodfin, NC
![Photo of Craig B McKinney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e1088fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years in the field with experience treating a wide range of psychological issues. I have experience working with people of all ages including college students . I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. Additionally, I have enjoyed working with people experiencing the more severe symptoms of mental health so that they may live a more stable and fulfilling life. I am located in Boone NC but can offer Telehealth services to those in need anywhere in North Carolina
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years in the field with experience treating a wide range of psychological issues. I have experience working with people of all ages including college students . I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. Additionally, I have enjoyed working with people experiencing the more severe symptoms of mental health so that they may live a more stable and fulfilling life. I am located in Boone NC but can offer Telehealth services to those in need anywhere in North Carolina
![Photo of Amber Kilkenny, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b042cdf8-2f69-456c-8e53-b31b0f80fdde/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping individuals understand their unique wiring with compassion and curiosity. The more understanding we have of ourselves, the greater freedom and joy we will have in life. The brain is such a beautiful piece of us and I am continuously amazed at how it protects us when we need it to. Much of the work I do is assisting you in helping your brain and body reduce defenses when we truly are safe. I believe that taking an honest, directive and nurturing approach is the key to successful treatment. The predominate therapeutic modalities I use are EMDR, CBT, IFS and TRE.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping individuals understand their unique wiring with compassion and curiosity. The more understanding we have of ourselves, the greater freedom and joy we will have in life. The brain is such a beautiful piece of us and I am continuously amazed at how it protects us when we need it to. Much of the work I do is assisting you in helping your brain and body reduce defenses when we truly are safe. I believe that taking an honest, directive and nurturing approach is the key to successful treatment. The predominate therapeutic modalities I use are EMDR, CBT, IFS and TRE.
![Photo of Corey Costanzo, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44157695-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
![Photo of John Magee, MA, LCMHC, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f252830-9712-4dff-9549-99d227512fd8/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Magee
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Woodfin, NC 28804
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to be there with you through the process. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to be there with you through the process. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Regina Mason, MS, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ca48047-9788-4952-8e1a-cdab669eeda8/2/320x400.png)
Regina Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, PTSD, self-harming behaviors, personality disorders, I/DD individuals, are a parent or guardian of I/DD individuals, require counseling, or desire a stronger foundation with your children and family, allow me to meet you where you are.
One of my favorite mantras is "I can only get better when I accept myself as I am, where I have been, and where I am going!" I am passionate in my work. One of my main goals is to see you thrive. I want to aid you in your journey to better mental health. My therapeutic style is very laid back, and you will be the driving for in your treatment.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, PTSD, self-harming behaviors, personality disorders, I/DD individuals, are a parent or guardian of I/DD individuals, require counseling, or desire a stronger foundation with your children and family, allow me to meet you where you are.
One of my favorite mantras is "I can only get better when I accept myself as I am, where I have been, and where I am going!" I am passionate in my work. One of my main goals is to see you thrive. I want to aid you in your journey to better mental health. My therapeutic style is very laid back, and you will be the driving for in your treatment.
![Photo of Deborah H. Weir, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/020a898f-f55b-4972-8d90-d749720c480c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah H. Weir
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I am dedicated to being the absolute best therapist I can, which means individual case management and staying educated on cutting-edge trends and interventions.
My ideal client wants to change and evolve, and is willing to work at it through sessions and homework! I'm non-judgmental and a creative collaborator with my clients. I've done my job if clients feel heard, renewed, and empowered. I have a ton of experience and credentials: I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brainspotting, and Brain-based Hypnotherapy. I work in trauma recovery, relationship issues, addiction, mood disorders, Jungian counseling, and spiritual counseling. I'm extremely adventurous, youthful, and have experienced life in many places and realms.
I am dedicated to being the absolute best therapist I can, which means individual case management and staying educated on cutting-edge trends and interventions.
My ideal client wants to change and evolve, and is willing to work at it through sessions and homework! I'm non-judgmental and a creative collaborator with my clients. I've done my job if clients feel heard, renewed, and empowered. I have a ton of experience and credentials: I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brainspotting, and Brain-based Hypnotherapy. I work in trauma recovery, relationship issues, addiction, mood disorders, Jungian counseling, and spiritual counseling. I'm extremely adventurous, youthful, and have experienced life in many places and realms.
![Photo of Eric Belsterling, PhD stu, LCAS, CSAT, CMAT, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46fb9d2e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Belsterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD stu, LCAS, CSAT, CMAT, CCS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
Graduate of the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute's Level II training, a cutting-edge somatically based modality for treating trauma.
I believe there are many ways to achieve well-being and recovery. Presence, patience, compassion, acceptance, and curiosity are some of the qualities I possess. I believe competent therapy is a co-creation between the client and therapist and pride myself in embodying everything I expect of my clients. I'm passionate about stewarding people to create greater acceptance, balance, inner attunement and well-being in their lives. I specialize in all addiction disorders (i.e. substance use disorders, behavioral addictions such as problematic sexual behaviors, porn, food, internet gaming, etc.) and/or co-occurring disorders.
Graduate of the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute's Level II training, a cutting-edge somatically based modality for treating trauma.
I believe there are many ways to achieve well-being and recovery. Presence, patience, compassion, acceptance, and curiosity are some of the qualities I possess. I believe competent therapy is a co-creation between the client and therapist and pride myself in embodying everything I expect of my clients. I'm passionate about stewarding people to create greater acceptance, balance, inner attunement and well-being in their lives. I specialize in all addiction disorders (i.e. substance use disorders, behavioral addictions such as problematic sexual behaviors, porn, food, internet gaming, etc.) and/or co-occurring disorders.
![Photo of Melina Bridges, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db6f26d6-a624-4669-a54a-13c29bf51c1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melina Bridges
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I offer expressive and emotionally based therapies to children (ages 6 and older) a warm and nurturing environment which provides a safe space to do any healing they might need to do to move forward, to feel better about who they are, or share what might have happened in their lives that makes their heart ache. I help teens and young adults navigate the turbulence of hormones, and school work, friendships and home life, college and relationships, and all the other activities and significant events happening, while trying to discover who they are and what makes them feel most alive.
I offer expressive and emotionally based therapies to children (ages 6 and older) a warm and nurturing environment which provides a safe space to do any healing they might need to do to move forward, to feel better about who they are, or share what might have happened in their lives that makes their heart ache. I help teens and young adults navigate the turbulence of hormones, and school work, friendships and home life, college and relationships, and all the other activities and significant events happening, while trying to discover who they are and what makes them feel most alive.
![Photo of Sav Raynor, MS, LMFT, 200 RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1da751b0-e3c5-4749-b4c6-5faf00ac3b26/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sav Raynor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, 200 RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe it is my job to collaborate with my clients to create a Narrative that feels authentic and attuned their passions, identities, and values. We often get lost in what we feel like we should or can't do, which confines us in little boxes that make it hard for us to feel vibrant and celebrate our uniqueness. I believe that when we explore and deconstruct the social constructions and dominant discourses in our social-cultural location and biases that don't align with our personal experiences or beliefs we have the autonomy and freedom to get in touch with our most core self and better understand how we interact with our world.
I believe it is my job to collaborate with my clients to create a Narrative that feels authentic and attuned their passions, identities, and values. We often get lost in what we feel like we should or can't do, which confines us in little boxes that make it hard for us to feel vibrant and celebrate our uniqueness. I believe that when we explore and deconstruct the social constructions and dominant discourses in our social-cultural location and biases that don't align with our personal experiences or beliefs we have the autonomy and freedom to get in touch with our most core self and better understand how we interact with our world.
![Photo of Avery Horne, MSW, LCSW-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33ba25e4-dde1-4b7d-ba0e-d00a32fac611/1/320x400.jpeg)
Avery Horne
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
I believe that everyone can become the version of themselves they want to be. But this "becoming" is a journey with many twists and turns. Life can be beautiful and wonderful, and at other times it can feel like one gut punch after another. We all need someone to lean on in order to keep going sometimes! My philosophy is informed by my own lived experience. I'm queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent, and certainly no stranger to anxiety and depression. Through my own therapy, I learned that no one was coming to "save" me – I had to show up for myself. Learning to integrate my experiences has colored my world for the better.
I believe that everyone can become the version of themselves they want to be. But this "becoming" is a journey with many twists and turns. Life can be beautiful and wonderful, and at other times it can feel like one gut punch after another. We all need someone to lean on in order to keep going sometimes! My philosophy is informed by my own lived experience. I'm queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent, and certainly no stranger to anxiety and depression. Through my own therapy, I learned that no one was coming to "save" me – I had to show up for myself. Learning to integrate my experiences has colored my world for the better.
![Photo of Dana M Spangler, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c10732-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life can and will throw many different things at us. These things can present in the form of stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, loss and anger. Everyday events can mentally put us in a place where we feel vulnerable. I want to help my clients not just cope but learn to move forward and grow strength. As individuals we each have our own unique perspective on the world, using colored lenses to define/understand the things unfolding in front of us. I want to work with you on focusing your lenses on the way you view yourself & your world. Together we can identify how your experiences have give you both positive & negative coloring.
Life can and will throw many different things at us. These things can present in the form of stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, loss and anger. Everyday events can mentally put us in a place where we feel vulnerable. I want to help my clients not just cope but learn to move forward and grow strength. As individuals we each have our own unique perspective on the world, using colored lenses to define/understand the things unfolding in front of us. I want to work with you on focusing your lenses on the way you view yourself & your world. Together we can identify how your experiences have give you both positive & negative coloring.
![Photo of Meghan Breen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c96e529-5d7d-4454-bdee-886a83506447/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan Breen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804 (Online Only)
You are not alone. Seeking help is one of the hardest and bravest actions we take. Life can be a lot. I use a relational collaborative approach to treatment with the use of skill, humor, and acceptance. While I am an expert in specific treatment approaches you are the expert on your life. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in DBT and treatment of eating disorders and addictions. I am passionate about recovery based treatment and the power of vulnerability. I believe in change and action based approaches to facilitate exposure and hope around building the life and relationships you want.
You are not alone. Seeking help is one of the hardest and bravest actions we take. Life can be a lot. I use a relational collaborative approach to treatment with the use of skill, humor, and acceptance. While I am an expert in specific treatment approaches you are the expert on your life. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in DBT and treatment of eating disorders and addictions. I am passionate about recovery based treatment and the power of vulnerability. I believe in change and action based approaches to facilitate exposure and hope around building the life and relationships you want.
![Photo of Linda Elma - Life Skills Management Services LLC, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e72277e-0243-490b-995a-743ad012fef5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life Skills Management Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804 (Online Only)
We are licensed in Utah, Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
We are licensed in Utah, Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
![Photo of Terran Sutphin, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9fa9702-69c7-482a-8347-6011b14a6371/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed psychological associate at Matone Counseling and Testing, I hope to assist individuals in overcoming obstacles they face, aid them in reaching their goals, and lead gratifying lives. I am committed to providing a safe space for clients to express and explore themselves. Additionally, I am passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, body image, and maladaptive eating behaviors.
As a licensed psychological associate at Matone Counseling and Testing, I hope to assist individuals in overcoming obstacles they face, aid them in reaching their goals, and lead gratifying lives. I am committed to providing a safe space for clients to express and explore themselves. Additionally, I am passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, body image, and maladaptive eating behaviors.
![Photo of Laura Siri Simran Kaur Khalsa, MA, LPC, CHT, ATR, ET, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d791e9-1652-42e6-bf0d-ed5a64fffc93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Siri Simran Kaur Khalsa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT, ATR, ET
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
In my 30 years of personal and professional development, I have created a unique approach to bring hope and strength, healing and transformation to those who are ready. It is my honor and joy to provide and hold space for you as I offer assistance with your empowerment, acceptance, trust, forgiveness and gratitude. My philosophy is based on healing relationship within Self, with others and with the world. Our time together is precious and I will share with you mindful and compassionate practices and share the value of authenticity, and presence.
In my 30 years of personal and professional development, I have created a unique approach to bring hope and strength, healing and transformation to those who are ready. It is my honor and joy to provide and hold space for you as I offer assistance with your empowerment, acceptance, trust, forgiveness and gratitude. My philosophy is based on healing relationship within Self, with others and with the world. Our time together is precious and I will share with you mindful and compassionate practices and share the value of authenticity, and presence.
![Photo of Eddie Davenport, LCSW, LCAS-A, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab3634cb-c3bb-43c4-a4eb-b83edf25b0a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eddie Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
With a decade of experience as a first responder, I deeply understand the physical, mental, and emotional impacts of life's challenges. Whether you're dealing with trauma, stress, or other mental health issues, I am here to offer my support. My approach includes tailored guidance and resilience-building strategies to create a safe, trusting, and empowering environment. My mission is to enhance your overall well-being and provide you with a toolkit for self-reliance across all areas of life, including crucial mental health support. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
With a decade of experience as a first responder, I deeply understand the physical, mental, and emotional impacts of life's challenges. Whether you're dealing with trauma, stress, or other mental health issues, I am here to offer my support. My approach includes tailored guidance and resilience-building strategies to create a safe, trusting, and empowering environment. My mission is to enhance your overall well-being and provide you with a toolkit for self-reliance across all areas of life, including crucial mental health support. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
![Photo of Shantel Smythe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a15c02a2-5f43-4425-9ed6-6849f268b667/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shantel Smythe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You’re in a really shitty place. You’re angry, drained, hurt and tired of the constant thought loop that never seems to shut off. You’re exhausted with trying to remain positive and that’s not working anymore. You have things you never really talked about that are still eating away at you. No one seems to get you, so you connect more with characters in your favorite tv shows, movies, or songs. You’re trying to navigate through new transitions or relationships, and nothing seems to be working out. You feel like you’ve hit a wall.
You’re in a really shitty place. You’re angry, drained, hurt and tired of the constant thought loop that never seems to shut off. You’re exhausted with trying to remain positive and that’s not working anymore. You have things you never really talked about that are still eating away at you. No one seems to get you, so you connect more with characters in your favorite tv shows, movies, or songs. You’re trying to navigate through new transitions or relationships, and nothing seems to be working out. You feel like you’ve hit a wall.
![Photo of Kylie Peele, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2753c991-7d10-431a-83a9-29f26357b87d/2/320x400.jpeg)
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
![Photo of Brandee R Distefano, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7945b333-59d8-4aec-8fa8-7f63d7892ca1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brandee R Distefano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Brandee treats older teens and adults across a range of clinical concerns, with a particular focus on mood, anxiety disorders and trauma-related disorders. In addition, she works comfortably with clients who would appreciate the delivery of CBT within the context of their spiritual/religious world view. She obtained a BA in Psychology from UNCA in 2010, and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montreat College in 2015. Brandee worked with adolescents and teens from 2015-2018 in a day treatment setting before switching to an outpatient therapy setting. Currently Brandee is practicing via teleltherapy.
Brandee treats older teens and adults across a range of clinical concerns, with a particular focus on mood, anxiety disorders and trauma-related disorders. In addition, she works comfortably with clients who would appreciate the delivery of CBT within the context of their spiritual/religious world view. She obtained a BA in Psychology from UNCA in 2010, and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montreat College in 2015. Brandee worked with adolescents and teens from 2015-2018 in a day treatment setting before switching to an outpatient therapy setting. Currently Brandee is practicing via teleltherapy.
![Photo of Olivia Danilko, MAEd, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c681093-6dbd-4c86-b2a4-5a0487710684/1/320x400.jpeg)
Is your life feeling difficult right now and you need support in navigating the chaos? Do you need help resolving past traumas, talking kinder to yourself, or letting go of toxic relationships? Are daily tasks feeling impossible, and you just want to give up? Is your marriage feeling strained or irreparable? Maybe you consider yourself a people pleaser and have difficulties expressing your needs, or maybe you're going through a brutal break-up. There are times in all of our lives where we could benefit from extra support. I get it - being human is messy, but we don't have to do it alone. I'd love to support you through your journey.
Is your life feeling difficult right now and you need support in navigating the chaos? Do you need help resolving past traumas, talking kinder to yourself, or letting go of toxic relationships? Are daily tasks feeling impossible, and you just want to give up? Is your marriage feeling strained or irreparable? Maybe you consider yourself a people pleaser and have difficulties expressing your needs, or maybe you're going through a brutal break-up. There are times in all of our lives where we could benefit from extra support. I get it - being human is messy, but we don't have to do it alone. I'd love to support you through your journey.
See more therapy options for Woodfin
Nearby Self-Harming Therapists Searches for Woodfin
- Arden
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- Hendersonville
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- Swannanoa
- Waynesville
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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.