Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is a disorder that causes someone to pull out the hair from their scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, pubic area or other parts of the body, which can result in noticeable bald patch in that area. The pulling differs in severity from person to person. Trichotillomania is a Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior, along with Excoriation (skin picking) and nail biting. These disorders can affect people of all ages.
Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors are often misunderstood. The average therapist didn't hear anything about Trichotillomania or Skin Picking in their graduate training. Therefore, is so important to find the right therapist who is trained in the evidence-based treatments for BFRBs.
Skin Picking
Skin Picking disorder, otherwise known as dermatillomania or excoriation disorder, is more common that you might imagine. Many people who struggle with this BFRB scratch, rub, or pick at the skin on various areas of the body due to perceived imperfections, a way to cope with difficult emotions, or aren't aware they are doing it at all in that moment. Like Trich, Skin Picking is responsive to the treatments you can read about below.
Treatment for BFRBs
The Comprehensive Model for Behavioral Treatment (ComB) is one of the most effective treatments for BFRBs known today. We offer parent training for children ages 6 and under and individual treatment for ages 7 and older. Treatment typically ranges from 10-12 sessions. During this time the patient acquires the unique skills, both cognitively and behaviorally, that can help to decrease their symptoms, increase their tolerance of distress, and help you to get back to the life you want to live. Patients then continue to put their tools to use to maintain their success after treatment has wrapped up. Because these disorders are often misunderstood, it is important to seek treatment from a specialist. Our therapists are experts in the field. We approach treatment functionally , meaning that we look at the processes that are keeping a patient stuck in their symptoms, rather than robotically apply a protocol.
The therapists at Beyond Borders CBT are not only prepared to offer you the most effective treatment available, but to treat you with the compassion, flexibility, and respect you deserve.