Dermatillomania Therapy in Tennessee

Skin picking is part of a group of conditions known as body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs). These behaviors are more common than many people realize and are treatable with evidence-based approaches. 

Dermatillomania involves repetitive picking at the skin, which may lead to irritation, wounds, or scarring.

Common areas include:

• Face
   
• Hands
   
• Arms
   
• Legs
   
• Scalp
   

Many individuals experience a strong urge to remove perceived imperfections or relieve uncomfortable sensations in the skin.

 I use an evidence-based approach that combines Habit Reversal Training, and mindfulness-based strategies.

In therapy we work together to increase awareness of picking patterns, identify triggers such as stress, boredom, anxiety, or sensory sensations, and develop alternative responses when urges arise.

Treatment may include:

• Increasing awareness of urges and behavior patterns
   
• Identifying emotional, environmental, or sensory triggers
   
• Learning “competing responses” that replace picking behaviors
   
• Developing coping strategies for anxiety, stress, or difficult emotions
   
• Practicing mindfulness skills that help you observe urges without immediately acting on them
   
• Building self-compassion and reducing shame around the behavior
   

This integrated approach helps interrupt the automatic cycle of urge → behavior → temporary relief and replace it with skills that support long-term change.