Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors therapists in Tennessee

BFRBs: Beyond the "Habit" Compassionate Care for Hair Pulling, Skin Picking, & More Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), such as Trichotillomania (hair pulling) and Dermatillomania (skin picking), are frequently misunderstood as simple nervous habits or "grooming gone wrong." In reality, they are complex, self-regulatory responses to a nervous system seeking balance. I provide a shame-free, clinically sophisticated space to help you understand your urges and reclaim your relationship with your body. Understanding the Cycle BFRBs often thrive in the shadows of secrecy. In our work, we pull back the curtain on the cycle of: The Sensory Urge: Identifying the "itch" or "tension" that precedes the behavior—often a response to overwhelm or a need for stimulation. The Trance State: Addressing the "zoning out" that occurs during picking or pulling, where the behavior becomes a way to numb out or manage intense emotions. The Shame Spiral: Breaking the cycle of regret and physical "fixing" that often follows, which only increases the anxiety that fuels the next urge. An Integrated Path to Healing Using my training in EMDR, Systems Theory, and Attachment, we move beyond basic "willpower" to address the deeper neurological and emotional drivers: Somatic Regulation: We use grounding techniques to increase your Window of Tolerance, helping you stay present when the urge to pick or pull feels overwhelming. EMDR for Body Shame: Many people with BFRBs carry deep-seated trauma or negative self-beliefs regarding their appearance. We use EMDR to process these "stuck" emotions, reducing the internal pressure that fuels the behavior. Environmental & Sensory Styling: We look at your "system"—your home, your workspace, and your routine—to create sensory-safe environments that reduce triggers and provide healthier outlets for nervous energy. You Are More Than Your Behavior Whether you have struggled since childhood or have recently experienced a flare-up due to burnout or life transitions, I am here to help. We don’t just aim for "stoppage"; we aim for body neutrality, self-compassion, and a regulated nervous system.  

We provide targeted treatment for BFRBs such as skin picking and hair pulling (trichotillomania) using habit reversal training and evidence-based behavioral strategies to reduce urges and increase control.