Therapy for Self-Harming

Breaking the Cycle of Pain with Compassion, Understanding, and Healing

Self-harming behaviors—whether through cutting, burning, or other forms of self-injury—are often a way of coping with overwhelming emotions, stress, or trauma. While these behaviors can offer temporary relief, they don’t address the underlying pain, and over time, they can cause significant harm.
If you’re struggling with self-harming behaviors, you don’t have to face it alone. Healing is possible. Therapy can help you develop healthier coping strategies, manage emotions, and build a life where you feel safe and supported.

What Is Self-Harming?

Self-harming is the act of intentionally inflicting pain or injury on oneself, typically as a way of coping with intense feelings such as:

• Anxiety, depression, or sadness

• Anger, frustration, or helplessness

• Emotional numbness or a sense of disconnection

• A need for control or release from overwhelming stress

While self-harm provides temporary relief or emotional release, it often leads to feelings of guilt, shame, and more emotional pain, which can lead to a vicious cycle. Addressing the root causes of self-harm and finding healthier coping mechanisms is a critical part of the healing process.

How Therapy Can Help with Self-Harming

Therapy for self-harm is focused on understanding the emotional and psychological triggers behind the behavior and developing new ways to cope with difficult feelings without resorting to self-injury.

Our therapeutic approaches may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and challenge unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to teach emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills

• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques to manage overwhelming emotions and stress without harmful behaviors

• Trauma-Informed Therapy to work through past trauma that may be fueling the need for self-harm

• Developing Coping Skills to replace self-harming behaviors with healthier outlets such as journaling, art, or physical activity

• Building Self-Compassion to reduce feelings of shame and self-criticism

We work with you to help you break the cycle of self-harm, explore what’s going on beneath the surface, and empower you with the skills you need to cope in more productive, life-affirming ways.

A Path to Healing and Hope

Self-harm doesn’t define who you are. It’s a sign that you’re struggling, not a reflection of your worth. With the right support and therapy, you can find healthier ways to process emotions, express yourself, and create a future where you feel whole, safe, and connected.

Healing is possible—it’s not about perfection, but progress. Every step you take toward addressing self-harm is a victory, and we’re here to walk with you on that journey.