HRT in New York & Florida

Habit Reversal Training for BFRBs and Related Habits

HRT is a specialized, skills-based therapy for body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) such as hair pulling and skin picking, as well as tics and other unwanted habits.

Online HRT support for teens, adults, and parents across New York and Florida.

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Breaking Free from Unwanted Behaviors with Compassionate Support

Habit Reversal Training (HRT) is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for managing and reducing unwanted behaviors such as hair-pulling (trichotillomania), skin-picking (excoriation disorder), nail-biting, and other body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs).

What is Habit Reversal Training?

HRT is built on the understanding that many habitual behaviors are automatic responses to stress, boredom, or discomfort. The goal of HRT is not just to eliminate the behavior but to replace it with healthier and more constructive responses. The approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs.

Key Components of HRT

Awareness training: learning to notice urges, situations, and sensations that come before the behavior.
Competing response training: practicing alternative behaviors that make it harder to engage in the habit.
Stimulus control: adjusting your environment to reduce triggers and make healthier behaviors easier.
Emotion and stress management: addressing the feelings that often accompany BFRBs.

HRT is not about “just stopping.” It’s about building skills, understanding patterns, and creating an environment where change becomes more possible.

Real-Life Examples of HRT

Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling):You might practice wearing a hat or headband during high-risk times, like while watching TV or reading, to create a physical barrier and reduce the urge to pull.
Skin-Picking (Excoriation Disorder): You could practice wearing bandages or using textured objects to touch instead of picking, reducing skin damage over time.
Nail-Biting: You may be guided to bring your hands to your lap or engage in a competing activity like squeezing a stress ball when the urge arises.

Why Choose HRT with EK Mental Health Counseling?

Supportive Environment: We provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your habits and develop effective strategies for change.
Compassionate Approach: We understand how distressing and isolating these behaviors can feel. Our goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered.
Personalized Treatment Plans: HRT is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that the strategies we develop

You’re not alone in this.
If you’re ready to understand your BFRB and learn new ways to respond, we’re here to help.

Talk about HRT options