Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania, sometimes called Trich, is a disorder characterized by recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out one’s own hair, possibly leading to noticeable hair loss and significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning. The hair pulling can occur from any part of the body where hair grows, such as the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, pubic area, beard, chest, or legs. The hair may be pulled and examined, chewed, bitten, or swallowed.
Trichotillomania affects individuals of all ages, although onset is most common in childhood or adolescence. The severity of trichotillomania can vary widely from person to person, ranging from occasional hair pulling to frequent, intense, and damaging episodes. Some individuals with trichotillomania may be able to control their hair pulling or hide the hair loss, while others may experience significant functional impairment, shame, and social isolation. Trichotillomania can also cause physical complications, such as skin injuries, infections, or alopecia (permanent hair loss).
CBT Denver offers expertise in the most effective forms of psychotherapy for treating trichotillomania - cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), habit reversal training (HRT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). We work with clients to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors that might help maintain the hair pulling while we concurrently teach individuals alternative behaviors. These alternatives may include relaxation techniques, self-distraction, or non-injurious ways of touching the hair. During treatment we focus on better understanding when individuals are vulnerable to engaging in pulling behavior and to utilize skills for emotion regulation and distress tolerance.
Dermatillomania
Dermatillomania, also known as skin picking disorder or excoriation disorder, is characterized by repetitive picking, scratching, or digging at one's own skin, often to the point of causing injury or scarring.
Dermatillomania can lead to significant emotional distress and impairment in daily functioning, such as difficulties at school or work, social isolation, and decreased self-esteem. It can also result in physical complications such as infections, scarring, and disfigurement.
Stress, anxiety, boredom, and certain physical sensations may trigger skin picking behaviors in individuals with dermatillomania.
At CBT Denver, we offer a combination of evidenced based interventions that have been successful in reducing the frequency of skin picking. Habit reversal training (HRT) offers clients new coping strategies to manage their urges to pick their skin. We utilize principles of HRT in combination with other treatments such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness training, to help individuals increase awareness of skin picking behaviors and learn new skills to replace them with healthier alternatives.
