Skin Picking & Hair Pulling
Skin picking (Excoriation or Dermatillomania) and hair-pulling (Trichotillomania) are two of the most common Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). They frequently co-occur with OCD and fall under OCD-Related Disorders. These behaviors often serve as coping mechanisms or attempts to alleviate anxiety, stress, or tension. Here are some examples of what BFRBs can look like in a person's life:
- Repetitive behaviors that cause physical damage to your body.
- Strong urges or compulsions to perform these behaviors.
- Finding it challenging to resist or stop the behaviors, even if you want to.
- Spending significant time engaging in these behaviors.
- Experiencing distress, guilt, or shame related to the behaviors.
- Using these behaviors to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotions.
- Noticeable physical consequences (wounds, bald patches, skin irritation).
- Experiencing negative impacts on your daily life, work, or relationships.
If you or someone you know is struggling with skin picking, hair-pulling, or any other BFRB, know that help is available. Seeking professional help can empower you to break free from these behaviors and improve your overall well-being.
At Northart Counseling, I help individuals overcome BFRBs. My compassionate and experienced approach is dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment tailored to your needs. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Together, we can make a positive change and support you in achieving a healthier, happier future.
How Therapy Can Help
- Developing Awareness: Therapy can help you become more aware of your BFRBs, including recognizing triggers, patterns, and the underlying emotions or thoughts associated with the behaviors.
- Understanding the Function: Therapists can assist you in understanding the purpose or function of your BFRBs, such as providing temporary relief from anxiety or serving as a coping mechanism for stress.
- Alternative Coping Strategies: Therapy sessions can focus on exploring and developing healthier coping mechanisms and stress management techniques to replace the BFRBs.
- Support and Guidance: Therapy provides a safe and supportive environment where you can openly discuss your struggles, receive compassion, and gain a better understanding about how to navigate these issues.
- Relapse Prevention: Therapists can assist you in developing long-term strategies to maintain progress, prevent relapse, and manage any setbacks that may occur.
How Therapy Works
Therapy plays a crucial role in addressing BFRBs, providing individuals with the support, guidance, and tools necessary to manage and reduce these behaviors. At Northart Counseling, I utilize Habit Reversal Training, nested in the evidenced-based model of ComB (Comprehensive Behavioral Model of Treatment). This has proven to be the most effective way of recovering from these embarrassing issues. Reach out for more information.
Every small step forward is a triumph, and every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Dr. Nancy Keuthen
We are here to answer your questions. Call or email today to schedule your consultation.
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