Self-Harming

Self-harm can be a way of coping with overwhelming emotional pain, distress, or a sense of disconnection. While it may offer temporary relief, it often leaves individuals feeling trapped, ashamed, or isolated. At Oak Grove Psychology, we offer compassionate, non-judgemental therapy for people who self-harm, supporting them in finding safer and more effective ways to manage difficult emotions.

Our experienced psychologists work with clients in Reading and across the UK via secure online sessions. We understand that self-harming behaviours don’t define a person; they’re often symptoms of deeper emotional struggles such as trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-worth, or difficulty expressing emotions.

Why People Self-Harm

People may self-harm for many different reasons, including:

• To gain a sense of control when life feels chaotic

• To release emotional pain or numbness

• To express feelings that are hard to verbalise

• As a response to trauma or difficult past experiences

• To punish themselves due to feelings of guilt, shame, or low self-esteem.

How Our Therapists Can Help

Here at Oak Grove Psychology, we offer a safe and supportive space to explore what’s behind your self-harming behaviour, without judgement or pressure. Our approach is tailored to each individual and may draw on a range of evidence-based therapies including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – to identify and change unhelpful thought patterns

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)-informed interventions – to support emotion regulation and distress tolerance

• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) – to help reduce self-criticism and build self-compassion

• Trauma-informed EMDR therapy – for those whose self-harm is linked to past traumatic experiences.

Self-Harm Therapy in Reading

Therapy can help you understand your triggers, learn alternative coping strategies, and begin to heal from underlying emotional pain. If you or someone you care about is struggling with self-harm, we’re here to provide compassionate support.