Self-harm is often a way to manage overwhelming emotions, numb emotional pain, or create a sense of control in moments that feel unbearable. While the act can bring temporary relief, it is followed by guilt, shame, and isolation. Many people who self-harm hide their injuries, fearing judgment or misunderstanding from others, which can deepen feelings of loneliness and hopelessness.
At R&R Health, we want you to know that self-harm is not a sign of weakness or attention-seeking. It is a coping strategy that has developed over time, usually in response to trauma, intense emotions, or difficulty expressing feelings in healthier ways. Our goal is to help you replace self-harm with safe, effective coping skills and to address the underlying issues that drive the behavior.
Self-harm is often linked to other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. It can also be related to unresolved trauma, intense stress, or feelings of emptiness.
Some common reasons people engage in self-harm include:
Comprehensive, Judgment-Free Assessment
We start by creating a safe space for you to share your experiences openly. We listen without judgment to understand your triggers, emotional struggles, and the role self-harm has played in your life.
Evidence-Based Therapies
We use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to teach distress tolerance and emotional regulation skills, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to change harmful thought patterns, and trauma-focused therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address unresolved pain.
Holistic Healing Opportunities
To promote emotional stability and self-expression, we integrate surf therapy, yoga, breathwork, art therapy, music therapy, reiki, equine-assisted activities, and outdoor adventures. These activities provide new outlets for stress relief and help build self-worth through positive, life-affirming experiences.
Crisis Planning and Support Systems
We work with you to develop a personalized safety plan, identify early warning signs, and establish a strong network of support both during and after treatment.
Our goal is to help you replace harmful behaviors with skills that support long-term emotional health. You will learn how to manage intense feelings without turning to self-harm, communicate your needs in healthy ways, and develop a deeper sense of self-compassion.
Clients who complete treatment often report feeling more in control of their emotions, more connected to others, and more hopeful about the future.
You do not have to face this alone. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, our admissions team will guide you every step of the way.
Dr. Raffi J. Ghurabi, DO, MS, FACOI, DFAOAAM is a board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine who serves as Medical Director at R&R Health. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Chicago, his Master of Science in Physiology and Biophysics from Georgetown University, and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ghurabi brings extensive experience in addiction treatment, urgent care, and outpatient medical leadership, with a clinical focus on comprehensive patient care that includes management of substance use disorders, co-occurring chronic medical conditions, and laboratory monitoring. He is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that supports each patient’s long-term recovery and overall health.
