Psychosocial and pharmacological treatments for deliberate self harm

A manual of best practice for counsellors working with adolescents who self-injure

“…Many practitioners and researchers assert that treatment is a long-term process (Derouin & Bravender, 2004;Hawton et al, 1999;Levy, Yeomans, & Diamond, 2007;McDonald, 2006;Suyemoto & MacDonald, 61 1995). Self-injuring clients can present with other mental health issues (e.g.…”

“…Evidence supporting the efficacy of particular treatment strategies is lacking (Hawton et al, 1999;Nixon & Heath, 2009). In Muehlenkamp ' s meta-analysis (2006) of research related to SI treatment effectiveness it is reported that there is insufficient evidence to indicate that any one particular approach is more effective than other treatments.…”

“…Hollander (2008, p. 72) describes DBT as "the best treatment" for SI and "more successful than other forms of psychotherapy or medication". This assertion is tempered by conclusions in literature reviews where it is noted that research focusing on adolescent SI treatment is limited and includes small samples in unique situations such as hospitalized female patients (Hawton et al, 1999;Meuhlenkamp, 2006). Based on the empirical research available, Hawton et al and Muehlenkamp conclude that DBT is a treatment worthy of consideration.…”

“…PST is another treatment approach based of CBT used in the treatment of adolescent SI (Hawton et al, 1999;Raj, Kumaraiah, & Bhide, 2001 ). Based on a review of six studies using PST, Hatcher (2002) reports that PST improves depression, hopelessness and personal problems for self-injurers.…”

“…Based on a review of six studies using PST, Hatcher (2002) reports that PST improves depression, hopelessness and personal problems for self-injurers. Other authors report some optimism for this approach; however, there is insufficient research available to support its use (Hawton et al, 1999;.…”