OTHER BODY-FOCUSED REPETITIVE BEHAVIORS
In addition to Hair-Pulling and Skin-Picking, there are other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors that people seek therapy for. For instance:
- Nail biting (Onychophagia)
- Nose-picking (Rhinotillexomania)
- Hair cutting (Trichotemnomania)
Meanwhile, the list above is not exclusive. Therefore, if you have difficulty controlling a grooming behavior, and it causes distress as well as impairment, then you could have a BFRB. Please keep in mind that you don’t have to have a name for it. If you are struggling, you deserve support regardless.
TREATMENT
There are two primary treatments for BFRBs: the Comprehensive Behavioral Model (COMB) & Habit Reversal Training (HRT). These treatments support an individual’s unique reasons for performing their BFRB. At the same time, ComB and HRT follow a specific structure. Most people engage in their BFRB for numerous reasons and thus benefit from learning a variety of approaches in order to support themselves. One common skill taught in treatment is “urge surfing,” that is, learning to tolerate an urge. Many people also benefit from considering thinking patterns that inform their behavior. Also, given that some people do the behavior to manage emotions, treatment can focus on dealing with feelings in a healthy way. In sum, everyone’s BFRB is unique. Therefore, developing an understanding of your behavior is central to effective treatment.
Even though treatment is individualized, logging is a universal part of this therapy for BFRBs. Not only does logging support clarity about why you do the behavior, it also supports awareness. This awareness is crucial because it is the cornerstone of behavior change.
INTERESTED IN THERAPY FOR BODY-FOCUSED REPETITIVE BEHAVIORS?
Are you or a loved one looking for help addressing BFRBs? Therapists at the Center for the Obsessive Mind use ComB and HRT to support Individuals with BFRBs. You can learn more about the treatments and services we provide here.
LOCATIONS
The Center for the Obsessive Mind offers
therapy in several states and internationally.
Learn more about where the staff practices, below.

CALIFORNIA
The Center for the Obsessive Mind’s staff therapists offer online therapy for BFRBs throughout California. Our Clients span from San Francisco down to Southern Orange County and San Diego. Whether you’re in Silicon Valley, Santa Barbara, Beverly Hills or Dana Point, the Center’s staff can support you in your recovery.

UTAH
Staff members at the Center for the Obsessive Mind offer treatment for BFRBs in the state of Utah. Since we provide teletherapy, we work with people who live in different areas of the Beehive State – from Salt Lake City and its suburbs, like West Jordan, Syracuse, Highland and Riverton, to Park City and St. George.

FLORIDA
Therapists at the Center for the Obsessive Mind also offer treatment for BFRBs online in Florida. We see people from all corners of the Sunshine state. Whether you’re from Naples, Orlando, Miami, or Boca Raton, we can provide specialized counseling remotely in your area.

NEVADA
Therapists at the Center for the Obsessive Mind also practice teletherapy in Nevada. So if you’re seeking help in Glenbrook, Incline Village, Reno or Las Vegas, we offer specialized therapy for BFRBs online across the Grand Canyon State.

INTERNATIONAL
In addition to all of the locations previously listed, the staff at the Center for the Obsessive Mind offer teletherapy for BFRBs to a number of countries internationally.

ONLINE
Online therapy isn’t right for everyone. An assessment can determine if online therapy is appropriate for your needs. Reach out here to learn more. Check out this article from the American Psychological Association or read this article that our Director, Lauren Rosen, LMFT, contributed to.
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Disclaimer: The information contained on this website is intended for informational and education purposes only and is not meant to be a replacement for therapy. If you are interested in treatment, you can email us and we will happily provide you with more information.