As a Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist, I work with children, young people, and adults who are ready to overcome habits that are holding them back. Using a proven, evidence-based approach that blends Habit Reversal Training (HRT), the Comprehensive Behavioural (ComB) Model, and Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy, we help you regain control and build healthier coping mechanisms.

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Understanding BFRBs

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Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviours (BFRBs) are compulsive behaviours directed at one's hair, skin, or nails. They often serve as coping mechanisms to soothe tension, stress, or sensory needs — but they can also cause emotional distress, physical harm, and frustration.

Common BFRBs include:

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• Hair pulling (Trichotillomania)

• Skin picking (Dermatillomania)

• Nail biting

• Cheek biting

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These behaviours aren't about "lack of willpower" or "bad habits." They are complex disorders, now categorised under "Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders" in the DSM-5.

While BFRBs share some compulsive traits with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), their triggers and emotional drivers are distinct. OCD is usually driven by intrusive thoughts, while BFRBs often occur to alleviate tension, stress, or sensory discomfort.

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No matter the cause, the impact is real — and recovery is absolutely possible with the right support.

 

Our Therapy Approach: A Three-Part Strategy

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We use a holistic, client-centred approach that addresses both the behaviour itself and the deeper emotional patterns underneath.

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1. Habit Reversal Training (HRT)

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Habit Reversal Training is the gold-standard treatment for BFRBs and related behaviours. It involves:

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• Awareness Training: Noticing when, where, and how the behaviour happens, and identifying early warning signs.

• Competing Response Training: Replacing the behaviour with a healthier alternative (like clenching your fists or using a fidget toy).

• Motivation and Support: Strengthening your motivation by understanding the costs of the behaviour and involving supportive friends or family where helpful.

• Relaxation Techniques: Learning tools like deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation to manage stress and reduce urges.

• Generalization Training: Practicing new skills across different situations so the healthier habits become automatic.

 

Habit Reversal Therapy is effective for:

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• Hair pulling (Trichotillomania)

• Skin picking (Dermatillomania)

• Nail biting​

• Thumb sucking

• Lip biting

• Knuckle cracking

• Snacking,

• Nose picking, and more

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2. The Comprehensive Behavioural (ComB) Model

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While HRT builds practical skills, the ComB Model helps us dig deeper into why behaviours occur.

We assess five key areas (SCAMP)

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• Sensory triggers (the feel of hair or skin)

• Cognitive patterns (thoughts like "just one more time")

• Affective (emotional) triggers (stress, boredom, anxiety)

• Motor habits (unconscious movements)

• Place triggers (specific environments)

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By identifying your unique pattern, we can tailor a treatment plan that addresses all angles of your habit, ensuring more lasting change.

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3. Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy

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Adding Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy helps reinforce your new habits at a subconscious level.

During clinical hypnosis, you remain fully aware and in control. Hypnotherapy simply deepens your focus, allowing your mind to "practice success" and:

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• Strengthen new healthy behaviours

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Boost motivation and confidence

• Rewire unconscious patterns that have kept the BFRB in place

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Many clients describe hypnotherapy as the "secret weapon" that supercharges their progress.

 

What You Can Expect

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1. Initial Consultation: A friendly, no-pressure conversation to understand your goals and explain how therapy can help.

2. Comprehensive Assessment: Mapping your unique triggers and behaviour patterns using ComB and habit tracking.

3. Skills Building: Teaching practical strategies to manage urges, reduce stress, and create new coping habits.

4. Hypnotherapy Sessions: Using clinical hypnosis to lock in positive change.

5. Support and Progress Tracking: Celebrating victories, troubleshooting setbacks, and building lifelong tools for success.

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Every step of the way, your therapy is tailored to your needs, your pace, and your strengths.

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You Deserve Freedom

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Whether you're struggling with hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting, tics, or other repetitive behaviours, healing is possible.

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You don't have to fight this alone — and you don’t have to rely solely on willpower.

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With evidence-based therapies and compassionate support, you can break free from unwanted behaviours and reclaim your confidence, wellbeing, and joy.

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Ready to take the first step?​

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