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
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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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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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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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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