Self-Harming
Self-harm is the act of intentionally hurting your own body. Skin-cutting or burning are the most common types of self-harm. Self-harm generally occurs when a person faces painful emotions that seem overwhelming or experiences intense feelings of self-hatred. By physically injuring themselves, a person who self-harms feels in control and is able to temporarily relieve their intense emotions. The release provided by self-harm passes quickly, replaced by feelings of guilt and shame. In children and teenagers, self-harm is sometimes a cry for help or attention. Although self-harm is not usually a suicide attempt, it is a very unhealthy and dangerous way of coping with feelings of anger, frustration or emotional pain. Seeing a mental health professional can help individuals who self-harm to find positive and healthy ways to cope with negative feelings and put an end to their destructive behavior.
Local experts in Self-Harming
Arrival Counseling annie dolle LCSW (she/her/hers)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
LCSW
Working in Level 1 Trauma Emergency Dept I have significant experience working to assess and support individuals in acute pain and crisis. I know this serves a purpose and I want to know more. I also use EMDR and experiential therapy to heal the deeper wounds that are managed through any form of self harming behaviors.
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Anchor Within Counseling
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Behavioral Health Office
Self-harming can manifest in diverse ways, such as cutting, burning, or other forms of self-injury. It can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem, exacerbating existing emotional conditions like depression and anxiety. It can strain relationships with family and friends, leading to further isolation and emotional distress. Self-harm among Black and Brown communities often stems from the intense stress caused by systemic racism, discrimination, and socioeconomic challenges.
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Firefly Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor
Whether a person has recently started hurting his or herself or has been doing it for a while, there is an opportunity to improve health and find a new path for managing complex emotions or life experiences. Firefly provides individual, family and group counseling to address self-harming behaviors. We also offer an intensive outpatient program for those who need increased care and support.
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Nicole Frangella (she/her)
Professional Counselor Associate
MA
I work with individuals struggling with self-harm to understand the underlying emotions and triggers that contribute to these behaviors. My approach focuses on building healthier coping strategies, increasing emotional awareness, and fostering self-compassion. Through a supportive and non-judgmental space, we explore alternatives to self-harm and work toward creating a balanced, more positive way to manage difficult feelings. My goal is to help clients regain control and work toward healing.
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Kate Keating (she/her)
Licensed Professional Counselor
MA, LPC
Self-harm was a common reason students came to see me in my work as a school counselor. I have researched this issue extensively and have advanced training from the Portland DBT institute.
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Sara Fuller (She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Professional Counselor
LPC, CCATP-CA
When uncomfortable emotions flood the nervous system it can feel scary and overwhelming resulting in intense physical sensations or numbness. Non-Suicidal Self Harm is often a faulty skill used to take control of that scary, overwhelming experience. We work together to find healthier methods of control while building tolerance to the discomfort of emotions and stronger connection between the mind and body.
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