Self-Harm Therapy

Self-harm can become a way of coping with emotions, emotional numbness, trauma or distress that feels impossible to communicate or manage. Although self-harm does not always mean that someone wants to die, it should always be taken seriously and approached with compassion rather than shame or punishment. 

 You or someone you care about may need support when experiencing: 

•    Urges to hurt yourself

•    Repeated self-harming behaviour

•    Difficulty stopping despite wanting to     •    Shame, guilt or secrecy connected to self-harm

•    Intense emotions that feel impossible to regulate

•    Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected

•    Self-harm following conflict, rejection or overwhelming events

•    Suicidal thoughts occurring alongside self-harm

•    Anxiety, depression, trauma or emotional dysregulation

•    Fear that other people will not understand

•    Concern about a child or teenager who may be self-harming 

Our therapists provide a calm, compassionate and nonjudgmental environment where self-harm can be discussed honestly. Therapy focuses on understanding what the behaviour is doing for the person—not simply demanding that it stop. 

Treatment may help clients:

•    Recognize emotional and situational triggers

•    Develop alternative ways to manage overwhelming feelings 

•    Strengthen distress-tolerance and emotional-regulation skills

•    Communicate needs more safely and effectively

•    Address trauma, anxiety, depression or relationship difficulties

•    Develop an individualized safety plan

•    Involve parents, caregivers or other healthcare professionals when appropriate    

Treatment may incorporate Dialectical Behaviour Therapy-informed skills, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, trauma-informed care and collaborative safety planning.

Untwist provides self-harm therapy for teens and adults in Midland and virtually across Ontario. The appropriate level of care will be assessed individually. Some clients may require support from a physician, psychiatrist, hospital or specialized program alongside psychotherapy. Your workplace or extended-health benefits may cover therapy with an eligible regulated clinician. Coverage depends on your plan and the clinician’s professional designation. Receipts are provided for reimbursement. Untwist is not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical assistance, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. If you are thinking about suicide or are worried about someone else, call or text 988 for support at any time. 

Individual Session Fee: $175/50 minute

In-Person in Midland or Virtually across Ontario. Evening availability.