Self Harm Counselling

Understanding Self-Harm

Self-harm, also known as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), is a coping mechanism used by some individuals to manage overwhelming emotions, distress, or numbness. It can take many forms, including cutting, burning, hitting, or other forms of self-inflicted injury. While self-harm is not necessarily a suicide attempt, it can indicate deep emotional pain and a need for support.

Counselling offers a non-judgmental space to explore the underlying emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and work toward self-compassion and healing.

Why Do People Engage in Self-Harm?

Self-harm often serves as a way to:

• Regulate Emotions – Provide temporary relief from intense feelings such as sadness, anger, or anxiety.

• Express Unspoken Pain – Communicate distress when words feel inadequate.

• Regain a Sense of Control – Feel agency over emotions or physical sensations.

• Escape Emotional Numbness – Experience sensation when feeling emotionally disconnected.

• Punish Oneself – Express self-criticism, shame, or low self-worth.

While self-harm may provide short-term relief, it does not address the root causes of emotional pain and can lead to a cycle of guilt, secrecy, and increased distress.

How Self-Harm Counselling Can Help

If you or someone you care about is struggling with self-harm, counselling can offer:

• A Safe, Non-Judgmental Space – Support without fear of shame or punishment.

• Healthier Coping Strategies – Learn alternatives to self-harm, such as distress tolerance skills.

• Emotional Regulation Techniques – Develop strategies to manage overwhelming emotions more effectively.

• Self-Compassion & Healing – Work through underlying self-criticism, guilt, or trauma.

• Relapse Prevention Planning – Build a toolkit of skills to reduce urges and maintain progress.

Our Approach

At Latitude Counselling, we integrate evidence-based therapies, including:

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps shift negative thought patterns and build resilience.

• Mindfulness & Self-Compassion Therapy – Encourages non-judgmental awareness and self-kindness.

• Trauma-Informed Therapy – Addresses past experiences that may contribute to self-harming behaviors.

Taking the Next Step

If you or a loved one is struggling with self-harm, know that you are not alone. Support is available, and healing is possible. Seeking help is a step toward self-care and a more fulfilling life.

Related Topics & Resources

• Emotional Regulation Counselling

• Trauma & PTSD Counselling

• Guilt & Shame Recovery

• Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support

If you’re ready to explore self-harm counselling, reach out today to book a consultation.