Body focused repetitive behaviors includes hair pulling, known as Trichotillomania, as well as skin picking, nail biting, and biting the inside of one’s cheek. For those who suffer with these behaviors, it can consume hours of their time, attention, and focus. This in turn can cause significant stress and negatively impact many aspects of their life including their relationships, jobs, school performances, etc.
Trichotillomania(TTM) is becoming more widely discussed, however many therapists still lack the knowledge and understanding to work with people suffering from TTM. I believe this is due to the fact that people who have TTM feel isolated, ashamed, and embarrassed, and often don’t talk about their struggle. It is a vicious cycle of wanting to stop pulling, then berating oneself for not being able to do so. This constant struggle, in turn leads to more hair pulling.
Our treatment together will include many components. Behavioral strategies in conjunction with understanding triggers to hair pulling or skin picking are important. However, I find the most essential components are understanding why the repetitive behavior initially began, and learning to view this behavior from a place of compassion for oneself rather than shame and hatred.
Please refer to the resource page of this website to find much more information and links to helpful websites.
Feel free to contact me if you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation appointment.
415.644.8924
, MFT
