Hi D'Arcy,
Its an interesting situation that you have been put in. Firstly you are a music teacher to this child, the parent obviously has been able to put her trust in you and confide with you about her daughter. Obviously she thinks you potential to help her, but you have got to remember your role in this. As a teacher have you done a safeguarding and protecting children course? If not and you regularly come into contact with children then I would suguest going on one. This is not to scare you or anything, but coming ino contact with children in an offical capacity like this then there are guidelines on what you should and shouldn't do. As a music teacher I would be there to help encourage her and give her confidence and inspire her to achieve - which will help her confidence and that should help with her recovery as well as yours as you watch this child gain abilities and sucess which you have enabled her to achieve.
Now Im not saying dont get involved with the self harm and cutting, however she is easily impressionable and even though your intents are good they may not come across this way. I'd talk to the mother first if I were you so that everyone is comfortable with the situation and everything is open and honest. If you are still struggling with self harm then maybe it is not a good idea to involved on this level as she should be seeking professional help and advice like yourself to be able to cope with the situation.
(I'll take my proffessional hat off now...)
I'd just be careful whatever you do as simple kind gestures can lead to allegations which ruin careers so i'd be careful what you are getting yourself in for. Im sorry if this isn't the opinion you would like to hear but remember what role you have been approached in which is a music teacher - not a therapist.
Hope this Helps!
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