Treating Self-Injury: A Practical Guide – Barent W. Walsh

I have just finished reading “Treating Self-Injury: A Practical Guide” written by Barent W. Walsh, and published in 2006. Drawing from his own vast experience of working with people who self-injure and extensive research into literature about self-injury, Walsh provides a comprehensive resource aimed at professionals who come into contact with people who self-injure.

I cannot praise this book highly enough. Walsh includes general information about self-injury as well as much needed (and previously neglected in literature) practical information and suggestions for professionals. I had not yet come across such a useful tool contained within one book.

This is essential reading for EVERY mental health professional and therapist, but will also be of use to GPs, those working in educational settings, people with an interest in self-injury, and even those who injure themselves if they are academically minded.

I was impressed to see in the Appendix that Walsh has written a very positive review of the LifeSIGNS website (further highlighted by his criticicism of other sites which often provide people who self-injure with triggering material), so was very pleased about that!