Hidden Self-harm: Narratives from Psychotherapy

Front Cover
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2002 M11 1 - 239 pages

This practical and accessible book of case studies takes a new look at self-harm, focusing particularly on the under-explored area of `hidden' self-harming behaviour. These behaviours may not be immediately identifiable as self-harm by counsellors, therapists or their clients, but Maggie Turp shows how recognition and understanding of hidden self-harm can improve practice with those affected.

The author begins by discussing extracts from infant observation studies that reflect on the role of maternal care in encouraging the tendency towards self-care. A series of detailed case studies follows, including a client who has a serious eating disorder, a client who abuses recreational drugs, works excessively to the detriment of his mental and physical health and sustains a series of unconsciously invited 'accidents', and one caught up in 'self-harm by omission', who fails to 'take care' and delays seeking vital medical care. The clinical accounts highlight the importance of attending to the client as a whole person and of building on the self-caring tendency that has prompted him or her to seek help in the form of counselling or psychotherapy.

Written from a psychoanalytic perspective, but using straightforward language, Hidden Self-Harm is a valuable resource for social workers, psychologists, teachers, nurses and lay helpers as well as for counsellors and psychotherapists.

From inside the book

Contents

Acknowledgements
6
Dedication
7
Introduction
9
What Do We Mean by SelfHarm?
23
Observations of Esther
39
Observations of Esther
53
Themes and Theoretical Frameworks
67
Working with Lorraine
79
Working with Tracey
119
Working with Peter
143
Working with Kate
167
Reflections on Case Study Themes
187
The SelfHarming Individual and The System
209
Bibliography
225
Subject Index
235
Author Index
237

Working with Ellen May
97

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About the author (2002)

Maggie Turp is a London-based psychoanalytic psychotherapist and supervisor in private practice. She began her career in psychology and social work and has worked extensively in the field of mental health.

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