For what ages do you treat hair pulling (Trichotillomania) at the Center for CBT? 

Ages 5 - 22

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What is Trichotillomania? 

Hair pulling, also called Trichotillomania, is when someone feels a strong urge to pull out their hair (most often from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or pubic area). It’s not just a “bad habit” or a phase. For many people, pulling provides a brief sense of relief or comfort, but it can lead to hair loss, distress, embarrassment, and shame. Trichotillomania is part of a group of conditions called Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). By working with our Trichotillomania specialist, our patients learn healthier ways to cope with these urges and regain control.

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Does everyone who does hair pulling have trichotillomania?

Not always. Some people occasionally play with or pull at their hair when they’re bored or stressed, and this doesn’t necessarily mean they have Trichotillomania. A diagnosis is made when the pulling is frequent, hard to control, leads to hair loss, or causes distress and interference in daily life. Our specialists can help determine whether the hair pulling is a normal behavior, a sign of Trichotillomania, and/or part of a bigger pattern.

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What makes hair pulling better or worse?

Hair pulling often gets worse when people are tired, anxious, stressed, or bored. Many pull automatically (without even noticing), while others pull in response to strong emotions or physical sensations, like an itch or “tingle” in the scalp. Pulling can decrease when people are engaged in activities they enjoy, when stress levels are lower, or when they have strategies to keep their hands busy. Learning what triggers pulling is one of the first steps in treatment.

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When should I be concerned about hair pulling?

It's time to seek out help when there is noticeable hair loss, significant time spent pulling, or when someone is feeling embarrassed, anxious, or secretive about the behavior. You should also reach out if pulling is interfering with school, friendships, or daily life, or if the person with Trichotillomania wants to stop but can’t seem to do it on their own. An evaluation can provide clarity, reassurance, and a roadmap for effective treatment.

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Is hair pulling treatable?
Absolutely. Trichotillomania is treatable when you’re working with a specialist who understands BFRBs. At The Center for CBT, we use a proven approach called Habit Reversal Training (HRT), which is the gold standard treatment. Our therapists teach kids, teens, and young adults practical tools to notice urges, respond in healthier ways, and reduce or eliminate hair pulling.