Key Considerations for Using No‐Harm Contracts With Clients Who Self‐Injure

One of the more controversial issues in working with people who self‐injure is whether counselors should use no‐harm contracts. Important therapeutic considerations include the efficacy of such contracts or agreements in preventing self‐injury, the emotional and behavioral responses of clients, and the perceived protection these contracts or agreements may offer counselors. The authors weigh potential benefits and pitfalls and make recommendations for working collaboratively with clients to meet their individual needs.