Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) refers to intentional self-harming behaviors such as cutting, burning, or hitting oneself without the intent to die. These behaviors often serve as a coping mechanism for emotional pain, numbness, or overwhelming stress. At his Boston practice, Dr. Joe Gallego offers confidential, trauma-informed psychiatric care to individuals struggling with self-injury.
Dr. Joe Gallego is a board-certified psychiatrist with experience treating adolescents and adults who engage in self-harm. His approach is grounded in empathy, safety, and respect. He helps patients understand the underlying emotions and patterns driving their behavior and offers healthy alternatives for coping and emotional regulation.
Dr. Gallego begins with a thorough evaluation to understand the function of self-injury in each patient’s life. This includes identifying emotional triggers, patterns of behavior, co-occurring conditions such as depression, trauma, or anxiety, and overall mental health history. For teens, family perspectives are included with sensitivity to the adolescent’s privacy.
While NSSI is distinct from suicidal intent, it is still a serious concern. Dr. Gallego provides a clear, collaborative safety plan to reduce risk and promote emotional safety. This includes identifying high-risk situations, coping tools, and steps to seek support when needed.
Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan focused on emotional regulation, self-awareness, and healthier coping strategies. Treatment may include therapy, medication management (if needed), and coordination with school or family systems to enhance external support.
Dr. Gallego incorporates evidence-based therapies such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices to support emotional resilience. Sessions focus on building distress tolerance, understanding emotions, and replacing self-injury with constructive strategies.
Adolescents may use self-injury to navigate identity struggles, academic pressure, peer issues, or trauma. Dr. Gallego provides developmentally appropriate care that validates their experience while involving families in a supportive, non-shaming way when appropriate.
Self-injury affects people of all backgrounds. Dr. Gallego offers inclusive care for LGBTQ+ youth, neurodivergent individuals, and trauma survivors. His practice emphasizes dignity, collaboration, and emotional safety in every session.
Dr. Gallego provides in-person appointments for individuals struggling with self-harm. His approach fosters trust and stability, allowing patients to build confidence in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Contact the office to schedule a consultation.
If you or a loved one is struggling with self-injury, support is available. Dr. Joe Gallego offers compassionate psychiatric care in Boston to help patients understand their emotions and develop healthier ways to cope. Reach out today to take the first step toward healing.
