Arolyn Burns LMFT, LPCC

    COMPASSIONATE. SCIENCE-BACKED. REAL HEALING.

    Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)

    Hair Pulling, Skin Picking & Related Conditions

    You may have promised yourself countless times that today would be different. Yet before you realize it, you're pulling, picking, biting, or engaging in another repetitive behavior again. If you're feeling frustrated, ashamed, or exhausted by the cycle, you're not alone.

    Book Free 15-Minute ConsultationSee How Treatment Works

    Virtual sessions available throughout California

    Arolyn Burns, licensed therapist
    Specialized BFRB Treatment
    Evidence-based & proven approaches
    Virtual Sessions Across California
    Convenient, private & secure
    Licensed & Certified Clinical Expert
    LMFT, LPCC with advanced training
    Compassionate, Judgment-Free Care
    You are seen, heard and supported

    Understanding Your BFRB Brain

    Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) aren't about willpower or self-control. They are neurological patterns that develop as coping mechanisms.

    These behaviors include:

    • Trichotillomania: hair pulling from scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or body
    • Dermatillomania: skin picking, especially knuckles and perceived blemishes
    • Other behaviors: nail biting, cheek biting, nose picking
    Understanding BFRB behaviors

    Comprehensive Treatment Approach

    Habit Reversal Training (HRT)
    Build awareness and replace behaviors
    Mindfulness & Stress Regulation
    Reduce anxiety and build calm
    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
    Shift thoughts and break patterns
    Trigger Identification
    Understand your unique triggers
    Alternative Coping Strategies
    Healthy tools for long-term relief
    Clinical Hypnotherapy
    Rewire subconscious patterns

    Why Traditional Approaches Fall Short

    "Just stop" doesn't work because BFRBs operate below conscious awareness. You need interventions that work with both your conscious mind (awareness, strategies) and your subconscious patterns (triggers, rewards, automatic responses).

    Arolyn combines multiple evidence-based approaches like hypnotherapy, CBT, and habit reversal training to create lasting change—not just temporary fixes.

    Why Choose Arolyn Burns for BFRB Treatment?

    • Specialized BFRB Training
    • Dual Licensure: LMFT & LPCC
    • Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist
    • Evidence-Based, Compassionate Approach

    BFRBs are often rooted in the subconscious mind. Traditional talk therapy alone isn't enough—we work with the deeper patterns that drive these behaviors.

    Arolyn Burns

    Real Results, Real Hope

    "Arolyn is Beyond Amazing! Absolutely at the Top of Her Game! When it comes to Trauma, Fears and Phobias—or if you just want to live a better quality of life—It's Arolyn that you want to see! She offers an incredible variety of tools which she customizes especially for you."

    TO
    Taaffe O'Connell
    GoogleVerified Google Review

    "Arolyn is blessed with a healing gift. She calms me down when I am anxious and has helped me work through emotional challenges as well as trauma. I'm blown away by how quickly my trauma is resolved."

    AC
    Aremar Ch.
    GoogleVerified Google Review

    "I had an excellent experience with Arolyn. She has helped me learn how to manage my mental health. Arolyn was super professional, kind and very patient with me. Now I am a new person. Thank you Arolyn for your excellent work!"

    ME
    Maryna Epperson
    GoogleVerified Google Review
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    Featured Podcast Appearances

    Listen to Arolyn share insights on mental health, healing, and personal transformation.

    Ep16. Squashing Fear & Reclaiming Life for Neurodivergent
    Mental Health Spotlight
    Hypnotherapy and Modern Healing with Arolyn Burns
    Wellness Redefined Podcast
    The Art of Healing: A Conversation with Arolyn Burns
    The Therapist's Journey
    Trauma Recovery and Post-Traumatic Life for Neurodivergent
    Healing Stories
    View More Interviews

    Frequently Asked Questions

    You Have Tried to Stop on Your Own. Now Let Me Help.

    Behind every BFRB is a person worthy of love, healing, and peace. Your journey to freedom starts with compassionate, expert care.

    Begin Your Healing Journey

    Confidential, virtual care for clients in Newport Beach, CA and throughout California.