This event is free for MCTS members

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Topic: "Self-Harm and Suicidality" (Janina Fisher)

During this study group, we will explore Janina Fisher's paper on self-harm and suicidality and her central, clinically transformative reframe: that for trauma survivors, self-harm and suicidal ideation do not cause pain so much as relieve it. Fisher grounds these behaviors in the psychobiology of trauma and in childhoods where the body became a vehicle for others' tension and connection felt more dangerous than helpful, leaving the survivor to rely on her own body and mind for regulation. The paper names the common mistakes well-intentioned clinicians make, from interpreting self-harm as a cry for help to becoming the lone advocate for safety while the client argues for her right to hurt herself. We will focus on Fisher's relational approach: surfacing the function the behavior serves, reframing suicidal ideation as a bid for control rather than a wish to die, framing disclosure as help rather than surveillance, and keeping the clinician's own anxiety from driving the work, in order to help clients move from secrecy and shame toward safety that is built with them rather than imposed on them.

Upon registration, participants will receive:

  • A detailed summary of the reading
  • A copy of: Fisher, J. (n.d.). "Self-harm and suicidality." Paper presented at The Trauma Center Lecture Series, Boston, MA.


Note: this session will be recorded for registrants who cannot attend live.


Instructor(s)

Pria Alpern, PhD

Psychologist

Dr. Alpern is a licensed clinical psychologist and an EMDRIA-approved EMDR therapist, consultant, and trainer. She is the founder of the Manhattan Center for Trauma Studies, where she oversees continuing education trainings focused on EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy. She is also the founder and clinical director of Center Psychology Group in New York City, a psychotherapy practice specializing in trauma treatment for adult and perinatal populations. She is a graduate of the EMDR Clinical Affiliate Program at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP) Trauma Treatment Center in New York City, where she completed her EMDR training. She is also an advanced-level Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEI). Dr. Alpern has specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders from Postpartum Support International. She earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University’s Brooklyn campus. She also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Rosemary Furman Counseling Center at Barnard College, focusing on late adolescence, early adulthood, and trauma. Dr. Alpern holds a B.A. in Psychology and Art History from Georgetown University. Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Alpern offers trauma-related psychoeducation through her Instagram and TikTok platforms, raising awareness about EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy. She has been featured in Glamour UK, Rolling Stone, NPR, and The New York Times.

Pricing options

We want this study group to be as accessible as possible while honoring the time and expertise that goes into facilitating it. The standard rate is $55, which helps cover preparation, facilitation, and community resources. A reduced rate of $35 is available for anyone who needs it - no explanation required. Please choose the rate that feels sustainable for you.