Habit Reversal Training

• Trichotillomania (hair pulling disorder)

• Excoriation/Dermatillomania (skin picking disorder)

• Onychophagia (nail biting)

• Other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)

If you are struggling with any of these conditions, this method can offer you a practical and evidence-based approach to manage and reduce these behaviors. 

• Awareness Training: Increasing awareness of the behaviors, triggers, and associated sensations allows individuals to identify patterns and develop insight into their habits.

• Competing Response Training: Learning and practicing alternative behaviors that are incompatible with skin picking or hair pulling, effectively replacing the harmful habits.

• Relaxation Techniques: Utilizing relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness, to reduce anxiety and stress, which often contribute to the onset of these behaviors.

• Social Support and Accountability: Therapeutic support, as well as the support of friends and family are a vital part of managing the new competing habits, as well as knowing that the person is always accepted the way that they are.

• Habit Monitoring: Keeping track of the frequency, intensity, and circumstances surrounding the habits helps individuals understand their triggers and progress over time.

By incorporating these techniques into your daily life, Habit Reversal Training empowers you to take control of your skin picking or hair pulling behaviors and build healthier habits. If you're ready to break free from these habits, we're here to support you on your journey to recovery. My practice utilizes Habit Reversal Training within the ComB model for BFRBs for the most effective outcomes. Reach out for more information!