BFRB is a general term that refers to any repetitive self-grooming behavior (pulling, picking, biting or scraping of the hair, skin or nails) that results in damage to the body. This disorder is actually very common and many do not know how to stop these behaviors. I take you through what you need to know to stop these behaviors and go through a demonstration of what a BFRB is.

​Some examples are:

►Trichotillomania (hair pulling)
►Excoriation Disorder (skin picking) - Dermatillomania
►Onychophagia (nail biting)
►Rubbing Biting

One of the best treatments for this is called the comprehensive treatment model for BFRBs (ComB).

As one of the few specialists that works with OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), I thought it would be helpful to go through what I look for when diagnosing OCD. Typically, I'm looking for:

►Intrusive Thoughts/Feelings
►Perceived Threats
►Anxiety or Distress
►Compulsions
►Temporary Relief

If you believe you have OCD, you are encouraged to seek assistance from a therapist for a proper diagnosis and start working on exposure and response prevention.

I recently attended the 1 million steps for OCD walk. This is an annual walk that helps support those who struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. This walk was located in Dallas, Texas.

A man named Denis Asselin walked from his home in Cheyney, PA, to Boston, MA, in memory of his son Nathaniel. Nathaniel took his own life at just 24, after a long struggle with severe body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and OCD.

​For more information about OCD and how to help and support visit: IOCDF.org

Reassurance seeking is very common within OCD. I have created what I call the "dice of uncertainty". This is helpful for someone who is using reassurance as a compulsion. Each side represents an answer that is uncertain. When you feel the need to ask for reassurance, the goal is to roll the dice and learn to live and even use the answer as an exposure.

Watch the video to learn more!