Trichotillomania and Excoriation Disorder

Treatment of Trichotillomania and Excoriation Disorder at the CTSA

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for trichotillomania and excoriation disorder at the CTSA focuses on education about these disorders, awareness training and introduction of self-monitoring, implementation of stimulus control (making the environment less pulling- or picking-friendly) procedures and habit reversal (practicing competing responses that deter pulling or picking), and maintenance of gains.

Eligibility

Before entering a treatment program at the Center, patients first complete a phone screening interview with one of our intake coordinators. If appropriate, patients then schedule and complete an extensive psychological evaluation with a clinician. Patients are interviewed at length and complete a number of specialized assessment forms to ensure an accurate diagnosis. The information gathered during this evaluation is used to determine if the person has an anxiety or stress problem and which treatment best matches the patient's needs. The results of the evaluation are discussed with the patient and treatment recommendations are offered. If the evaluation indicates that the treatment programs at the Center are appropriate for the person, then arrangements for treatment will be made following the evaluation.