Therapy for Self Harm

Self-harm is a coping strategy often used to manage emotional pain, distress, or feelings that are difficult to express. While it may bring short-term relief, self-harm can contribute to increased distress over time.

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Self-harming behaviours may include cutting, burning, hitting, interfering with wound healing, substance misuse, or disordered eating. These behaviours are most commonly seen during adolescence, often emerging as a way to deal with intense emotions, anxiety, trauma, or interpersonal difficulties. Self-harm also occurs in adulthood, and may take different forms, such as high-risk behaviours or ongoing self-neglect. Regardless of age, these behaviours signal a need for support and should not be ignored.

 

There is no single cause of self-harm. It is often linked to a combination of factors, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, bullying, low self-esteem, or intense feelings of shame, anger, or emotional numbness. Some may use self-harm to feel in control, to express what they cannot put into words, or to temporarily relieve psychological pain.

 

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology, we provide a safe, non-judgemental space for individuals who engage in self-harm, along with support for parents, caregivers, and families. Our clinicians combine compassion with clinical expertise to help explore the emotional drivers behind self-harming behaviours and guide the development of healthier, more sustainable coping strategies.

 

We use a range of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills, trauma-informed approaches, and mindfulness-based interventions. Therapy focuses on emotional regulation, reducing the urge to self-harm, building distress tolerance, and improving self-worth.

 

Contact Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology on 02 8519 4197 or click the button below to request an appointment.