Hey Hunny.
I have told two different school counselors, and both were very helpful. One was while I was still in high school, and one while I was in college. They really do give you a sense in caring and understanding, and are very nonjudgmental of everything that you say to them. As for telling your parents.. They legally cannot say anything to your parents if you are 18 years old or older. And beyond that they cannot share any of your personal information unless they believe that you are in danger of hurting yourself or others. Self injury usually does not fall into that category. Now I see that you are just seventeen.. as I was when I told my counselor in high school. I knew that she would most likely have to tell my parents so instead of straight out telling her that I was hurting myself.. I told her about the stress and depression and how it was really effecting me. Like telling her all of the reasons you injure yourself without actually telling her that you do it. No one can guarantee that you will like the counselor that you talk to... but on the other side this person can really help you too. And also remember that you are not the first person to talk to the counselor about this type of things.. many have seen it over and over. There job is to help you. It is up to you whether to bring your friend or not.. if you are scared maybe you can write everything down so that you dont have to talk as much. I did that many times.
Good luck and welcome to RYL, I hope we are able to help you here :)
x Kate
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