Our Team
Counselling and Psychotherapy for Self-Harm
Self-harm can be difficult to talk about. But here at Prince Edward County Counselling and Psychotherapy (PECCP), we create a safe, judgment-free space where you can be heard, understood, and supported.
Whether you’re engaging in self-injury to cope with overwhelming emotions, numbness, or stress, we’re here to walk alongside you toward healing.
Adam Terpstra (he/him)
Registered Social Worker, Registered Psychotherapist
Elise Nagy (she/her)
Master's Level Student Clinician
Marian Moon (she/her)
Registered Psychotherapist
Mitchell Manicone (he/him)
MSW, Registered Social Worker
What is self-harm?
Self-harm, also known as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), refers to intentionally hurting yourself as a way of coping with overwhelming emotional pain or distress. While the behaviours involve physical injury, the underlying struggle is almost always emotional.
For many people, self-harm is not about wanting to die or seeking attention. Instead, it may be an attempt to cope with emotions that feel unbearable, express pain that is difficult to put into words, create a sense of relief or control, interrupt emotional numbness, or manage feelings that seem impossible to regulate.
Understanding the reasons behind self-harm is an important part of healing. Rather than focusing solely on stopping the behaviour, therapy explores the emotional needs it has been trying to meet while helping you develop healthier, safer ways of coping.
Self-harm can take many forms.
Cutting, burning, or hitting yourself
Some individuals intentionally injure themselves to release overwhelming emotional pain, reduce emotional numbness, regain a sense of control, or temporarily relieve intense distress. These behaviours often occur during periods of heightened emotional overwhelm rather than as a desire to seek attention.
Interfering with wound healing
Picking at wounds, preventing injuries from healing, or repeatedly reopening wounds may also be forms of self-harm. Although these behaviours may appear different from more obvious forms of self-injury, they can serve similar emotional functions.
Hair-pulling or excessive scratching
Some people repeatedly pull out their hair, scratch or pick at their skin, or engage in other repetitive behaviours when experiencing stress or emotional distress. These behaviours can become difficult to stop and may be linked to overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or a need to relieve internal tension.
Substance misuse or engaging in risky behaviours
For some individuals, self-harm extends beyond physical injury. Using alcohol or drugs to intentionally numb emotional pain, engaging in reckless behaviours, placing yourself in dangerous situations, or repeatedly acting in ways that knowingly cause harm can also reflect attempts to cope with intense emotional suffering.
How To Get Started
01
FIND THE RIGHT THERAPIST
Browse our clinicians page to find a therapist whose experience and approach resonate with you.
02
SCHEDULE A SESSION
Schedule a time that works for you, no referral needed. Choose between in-person or virtual sessions.
Book your appointment here.
03
BEGIN YOUR SESSIONS
Start your therapy journey with support tailored to your goals, at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We've got answers.
Resources
Helpful Resources
Here are a few resources that you might find helpful in your mental health and wellness journey.
In-Person and Online Sessions Available
We offer flexible options to meet your needs, whether that means visiting our clinic at Armory Mall in Picton or connecting virtually from anywhere in Ontario. Your comfort comes first.
Our Location
Our clinic is located inside the Armoury Mall, via the Main Street entrance, within the vibrant community of Picton. Our space is designed to be welcoming, affirming, and comfortable, whether you're visiting us in person or connecting virtually from anywhere in Ontario.
Address: Armoury Mall, Unit 2N, 206 Picton Main St, Picton, ON K0K 2T0
Get in touch!
Feel free to email us or simply send your question using the contact form below.
📞 613-476-8850
📧 info@peccp.ca