The pain inside feels so overwhelming, and in those moments, maybe the only way you’ve found to cope—to feel something, or to feel nothing at all—is by hurting yourself. If you are here, reading these words, please hear this first: You are not broken, you are not alone, and there is a path to healing.

​

At Journey Counseling Center, we understand that self-harm is not a character flaw or a cry for attention. It is a sign of emotional pain.

Our compassionate therapists provide a completely non-judgmental space where you can understand the function your self-harm is serving and, together, build a new toolbox of coping skills that allow you to feel safe in your own skin.

​​

Understanding self-harm

One of the most important things to know is that self-injury is almost always a coping mechanism. It’s what you do when the emotional pain becomes too much to bear.

​

For many, self-harm is a way to:

• Release Tension: It can feel like a pressure valve for overwhelming anxiety, anger, or sadness.

• Feel Something: When you are numb and disconnected, physical pain can be a way to feel real again.

• Distract from Emotions: Physical pain can feel easier to manage than the emotional storm inside.

• Have a Sense of Control: When everything in your life feels out of control, self-harm can feel like the one thing you can manage.

​

The relief self-harm provides is real, but it's temporary and often followed by intense feelings of shame and guilt, which only fuels the cycle. Therapy for self-harm is about breaking that cycle with compassion, not criticism.

​

How therapy can help with self-harm

Our approach to self-harm therapy isn’t just about “stopping” the behavior. It’s about understanding its roots and giving you new, healthier ways to manage your emotions so that you no longer need it.

Together, we will work together to:

1. Create a Safe Space: Our therapy room is a place of safety. You can talk about your experiences without any fear of judgment, shock, or shame.

2. Build Your Toolbox: We will help you develop practical, safe, and effective coping skills to use when emotions feel overwhelming. Using evidence-based approaches like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), you will learn skills for distress tolerance, mindfulness, and emotion regulation.

3. Heal the Underlying Pain: Self-harm is a symptom of a deeper issue. We will gently explore and work to heal the underlying causes, whether it's trauma, depression, anxiety, or low self-worth.

​​​

Contact us fo self-harm therapy in Edmond, near Oklahoma City

Discovering that someone you love is self-harming is terrifying and confusing. You may feel scared, helpless, and unsure of what to do. The most important step you can take is to seek professional support. We are here not only to help the individual who is struggling but also to provide guidance and support for family members navigating this difficult journey.

​

You deserve a life where you don’t have to hurt yourself to survive the moment. Healing is possible, and it starts with a single, courageous step. You don’t have to do this alone.