Self-Harming

Serving clients at Lakewood · Centennial · Northglenn · Telehealth available statewide in Colorado
Self-harm is often a way of coping with overwhelming emotions—not a sign of being ‘broken’ or beyond help. At Oak Tree Behavioral Services, we provide a non-judgmental space to understand what’s driving self-harming behavior and develop healthier, more effective ways to manage emotional pain.

Signs You May Benefit from Self-Harm Support

  • Cutting, burning, scratching, or hitting yourself
  • Using physical pain to manage emotional numbness or distress
  • Hiding injuries from others
  • Feelings of shame or secrecy around the behavior
  • Escalating frequency or severity over time
  • Self-harm as a response to trauma, anxiety, or depression

Our Treatment Approach

We use DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), which is the gold-standard treatment for self-harm, along with trauma-informed care. DBT teaches emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills that address the root causes of self-harm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does self-harm mean someone is suicidal?
Not necessarily. Self-harm and suicidal ideation are different, though they can co-occur. We assess for both and address each appropriately.
Do you work with adolescents?
Yes. Self-harm is most common in adolescence and we have significant experience working with teens and their families.
Should I tell my child’s school?
This is a nuanced decision. Your therapist will help you navigate disclosure decisions in a way that protects and supports your child.