At Wholesome Psychology, located in both Edmonton and St. Albert, we provide understanding, non-judgmental therapy for individuals of all ages struggling with self-harm. Our holistic, client-centered approach is grounded in compassion, respect, and the belief that you are more than your struggles. If you or a loved one is coping with self-injury, know that support is available—and change is possible.
What Is Self-Harm?
Self-harm, also called self-injury or nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), is the act of deliberately hurting oneself as a way to manage overwhelming feelings or difficult situations. This can include cutting, burning, hitting, scratching, or other actions that cause physical harm. Self-harm is not a mental illness itself but often co-occurs with challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or intense emotional distress.
Many individuals who self-harm describe it as a way to cope with intense emotional pain, numbness, or to gain a sense of control. While self-injury may feel like the only relief in the moment, it is usually a sign of deeper emotional turmoil that deserves compassionate attention and professional support. Learn more about emotional regulation strategies.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
- Emotional Regulation: Using physical pain to mask emotional pain or to break through feelings of numbness. Explore our emotional regulation therapy.
- Coping with Trauma or Grief: Self-injury may temporarily relieve overwhelming memories or feelings associated with trauma or loss. Learn about our trauma healing services.
- Expression: A way to communicate despair, anger, or needs that feel difficult to verbalize.
- Sense of Control: When life feels unmanageable, self-harm can create a sense of mastery over one’s body or emotions.
- Low Self-Esteem: Associated with negative beliefs about oneself or internalized blame and shame. Read about self-esteem issues support.
It’s important to remember that self-harm is not attention-seeking or manipulative. These actions are signs of distress and should be met with empathy and care.
Signs Someone May Be Self-Harming
- Unexplained cuts, burns, bruises, or other injuries
- Wearing long sleeves or pants in hot weather
- Isolation, withdrawal from friends and activities
- Frequent complaints of accidental injuries
- Expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Keeping sharp objects on hand without a clear reason
If you notice these signs or recognize them in your own life, reaching out for help is an important step toward healing. Learn about our getting started process.
How Therapy for Self-Harm Works at Wholesome Psychology
Our experienced therapists understand that healing from self-harm requires sensitivity, safety, and trust. We offer a range of evidence-based therapies in both Edmonton and St. Albert specifically tailored to help you or your loved one with underlying emotional challenges and develop healthy alternatives to self-injury.
Therapy may include:
- Emotion Regulation Techniques: Building coping skills to manage difficult feelings in safer ways. Learn about emotional regulation.
- Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Challenging negative thought patterns and developing practical solutions. Learn about CBT.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, or grief. Read about our trauma healing approach.
- Mindfulness and Self-Compassion: Increasing self-awareness and promoting kindness toward oneself. Discover our mindfulness therapy.
- Family Support: Involving loved ones when appropriate to build supportive environments. Read about family issues support.
We create a safe, confidential, and affirming space for you to share your experiences at your own pace, working collaboratively towards recovery.
Supporting a Loved One Who Self-Harms
If you are a parent, caregiver, or friend concerned about someone who self-harms, your support matters. Ways to help include:
- Approaching the topic gently, avoiding judgment or accusations
- Listening with compassion and validating their feelings
- Encouraging them to seek professional help—consider sharing resources like our youth mental health support.
- Learning about self-harm to better understand what they are experiencing. Read about child and youth mental health.
- Taking care of your own emotional needs—caring for someone who self-harms can also be challenging
When to Seek Help Immediately
If someone’s injuries are life-threatening or you know someone is having thoughts of suicide, reach out for emergency support right away—call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. For ongoing self-harm, seeking therapy as soon as possible is key. You are not alone, and help can make a difference.
Self-Harm and Co-occurring Mental Health Issues
Self-harm often occurs alongside other mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. At Wholesome Psychology, our therapists are skilled at identifying and treating co-occurring issues, which might include:
For more details about how therapy can address multiple concerns, visit our page on services.
What to Expect in Your First Session
Feeling nervous about starting therapy is perfectly normal. During your first appointment, we’ll focus on building trust and understanding your unique story. We will not pressure you to talk about anything you aren’t ready for. Your therapist will help you identify triggers, set goals for recovery, and discover practical steps toward healthier coping strategies. Every journey is unique and taken at your own pace. Learn more about what to expect from therapy.
Why Choose Wholesome Psychology?
- Local Expertise: With offices in Edmonton and St. Albert, we are rooted in the local community and understand its unique needs. Explore our North Edmonton and St. Albert Campbell Park locations.
- Compassionate, Collaborative Care: Our therapists prioritize warmth, acceptance, and respect, honoring your lived experience.
- Holistic Approach: We address the whole person—mind, body, and relationships—in every aspect of our care. Learn about our unique approach.
- Beyond Judgment: At Wholesome Psychology, you are not defined by your struggles, but supported in your strengths and growth.
Healing from self-harm is possible. The first step often begins by reaching out for help—whether for yourself or someone you love.
Begin Your Healing Journey in Edmonton or St. Albert
If you’re seeking self-harm therapy in Edmonton or St. Albert, we are here to guide you with empathy and expertise. To learn more about our approach, meet our team of psychologists and therapists, or schedule a confidential appointment, please contact us today.
Remember: no matter where you are on your journey, healing is possible. Compassionate support can help transform pain into hope, and we are honored to walk this path with you.
