Self Injury

In recent years self-injury has received more awareness and attention than ever before. However, in spite of this fact, it still remains an issue that very few books have been written about (in comparison to such issues as depression and addiction).

Oftentimes self-injury will go hand-in-hand with eating disorders and/or abuse issues, although this is not always the case.

Our counselors here at True Hope Counseling make attempts to stay aware of current literature concerning this issue as well as current counseling theories that address the issue. In addition to this the counseling process also involves using Biblical truths, such as "Who I am in Christ" and the resources that a child of God has in Christ.

Resources used may include, but are not limited to Neil Anderson -

Victory over the Darkness ( www.ficm.org )
Wayne Mack - A Homework Manual for Biblical Living
Carter & Minirth - The Freedom from Depression Workbook
Dr. Dan Allendar - The Wounded Heart

Oftentimes other core issues need to be addressed before the self-injury issue, such as false beliefs that result from abuse, low self-esteem, severe depression, or negative attention-seeking behavior. It has been found within our offices that once these issues are addressed, self-injury often resolves itself naturally. It is for this reason that our counselors will do an extensive initial interview at the time of intake and then, in subsequent sessions, focus on any underlying issues that may exist other than the immediate presenting issue of self-injury.