My approach to Trichotillomania
My approach is grounded in high-structure behavioral therapy, specifically Habit Reversal Training (HRT) and ComB. Instead of treating hair pulling as a simple habit or a lack of willpower, we look at it as a complex behavioral loop with specific triggers, sensory needs, and environmental cues. We start by building self-awareness around the pull cycle, identifying whether the pulling is automatic (happening without conscious thought) or focused (in response to an urge, stress, or sensory sensation). From there, we implement practical competing responses, environmental modifications, and sensory replacement strategies to interrupt the loop effectively. My relevant experience comes from both clinical practice and personal, everyday life. As a counselor specializing in neurodivergent care and BFRBs (body-focused repetitive behaviors), I have extensive experience helping children, teens, and adults build actionable toolkits for trichotillomania, excoriation, ADHD, OCD, and tic disorders. Beyond my clinical training, this work is deeply personal. Living with Tourette syndrome and parenting a child who deals with tics and skin picking means I utilize habit reversal strategies in my own life on a daily basis. I know firsthand how frustrating and exhausting these loops can be, so my approach is entirely non-judgmental, highly practical, and focused on tools that actually fit into your daily life.
About me
My name is Aaron Edmiston, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, including those navigating ADHD, OCD, Tourette syndrome, and trichotillomania. My practice focuses on using behavioral approaches to help clients address complex behavioral loops. This work is deeply personal to me. As someone living with Tourette syndrome, I utilize these exact Habit Reversal Therapy strategies in my own life on a daily basis. Beyond that, as a parent of a child who deals with tics and skin picking (excoriation), I experience these challenges firsthand from both sides. Because of this, I don't just understand these loops as a clinician, I understand them as someone who lives with them and works through them alongside my own family every day.
Qualifications
- Comprehensive Behavioral (ComB) Model for BFRBs
- Habit Reversal Training (HRT)
- ADHD-CCSP - ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider
- CBT Model for ADHD
- Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)