At the Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center of Silicon Valley in Saratoga/San Jose, we offer cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for teenagers with trichotillomania or chronic hair pulling. Our approach with teenagers is practical, goal-oriented, compassionate, and scientifically-based while focusing on your teen’s individual needs. With our central location in Saratoga just a 1/2 mile (2 minute drive) from Hwy 85, we serve the Silicon Valley communities of San Jose, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Cupertino, Campbell, Mountain View, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Los Altos. If you think your teenager may be experiencing trichotillomania, you can learn more about the disorder and our treatment approach below.
What is Trichotillomania in Teens?
Trichotillomania is repetitive pulling out of one’s hair to the point where there is significant hair loss. Teens with trichotillomania will be distressed by the behavior or notice that the behavior impacts their functioning (e.g. conflict with family, embarrassment with friends). Teens may pull out the hair on their head, their eyebrows, eyelashes, pubic areas, or other parts of the body.
Symptoms of Trichotillomania in Teenagers
- Repetitive pulling out of one’s hair resulting in noticeable hair loss
- Problems in functioning related to the pulling
- Tension and difficulty resisting the urge to pull hair
- Feeling relief or satisfaction after pulling hair
Cognitive Behavioral Model of Trichotillomania for Adolescents
While some research suggests that some people may have an inherited predisposition to hair pulling, the causes of the behavior are less important than what is maintaining them now. According to the CBT model, hair pulling is maintained by a combination of environmental, emotional, and/or cognitive factors that either trigger or reinforce pulling episodes. Pulling can be triggered by specific settings (e.g. bedroom, bathroom) or activities such as driving or watching television. Certain emotions, such as anxiety, tension, and boredom can also trigger pulling episodes, as well as irrational beliefs about physical appearance. Pulling can then be reinforced by the feeling of the hair once it is pulled, a sense of relief or satisfaction, or the belief that physical appearance is improved. Pulling also may distract your teen from negative and uncomfortable emotions that they wish to avoid.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Teens with Trichotillomania
The goal of CBT for trichotillomania is to educate your teen about the disorder and teach them to become more aware of pulling and the environmental, emotional, and cognitive factors that trigger pulling. During the assessment phase, your teen will keep track of their pulling episodes, along with the associated triggers, consequences, emotions and thoughts. Your teen will learn self-management strategies to prevent pulling episodes and to stop the episodes once they begin, as well as learn to tolerate the uncomfortable emotions that lead to pulling.
Common Goals of Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Teenagers with Trichotillomania
- Decrease pulling episodes
- Resume daily routine and other levels of functioning
- Build coping skills for tolerating uncomfortable emotions and preventing pulling
Getting Help for Your Teen’s Trichotillomania/Hair Pulling in Saratoga/San Jose
Many teens are very embarrassed and ashamed of their pulling behavior so it is important to be patient and very sensitive. If your teen is willing to talk about his or her pulling, it is important to listen and be open-minded. Share the information you have found about trichotillomania and treatment options so your teen feels empowered to make a change. Be supportive, encouraging, and remind your teen of what he or she does well. After talking with your teen, it may be time to get some professional help.
The Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center of Silicon Valley specializes in therapy and counseling for teenagers with trichotillomania/hair pulling. With our central location in Saratoga just a 1/2 mile (2 minute drive) from Hwy 85, we serve the Silicon Valley communities of San Jose, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Cupertino, Campbell, Mountain View, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Los Altos. Contact us at (408) 384-8404 for more information on how we can help your teen manage their Trichotillomania/Hair Pulling.