Understanding Trichotillomania:  Compulsive hair pulling

Author: Mary Travis Ph.D.

5 Credit Hours (CE Credits)

PDF Document - Includes CLE or CE certification test.

Abstract

The word trichotillomania comes from Greek words:  Hair (trich), pull (tillo), and abnormal love (mania).  The essential feature of trichotillomania (trich) is the urge to pull out one’s own hair resulting in noticeable hair loss.  Hair can be pulled from anywhere on the body.  The most common areas are the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.  However, some people pull leg hair, pubic hair, and perirectal hair.  People may pull these latter hairs in an attempt to hide their hair pulling from others.

This online course enables therapists to broaden their knowledge of trichotillomania.  The course gives a historical and theoretical frame to the disorder.  Diagnosis and useful treatment models are discussed.  Complicating factors within the family system and within the client are addressed.  Trichotillomania is a niche area for interested therapists.  Parents report that it is difficult – if not impossible – to find therapists who are familiar with trich except on the most superficial level.  A more complete understanding of trich will help you deliver informed and knowledgeable service to this client base.

   5 CE Hours Available for

   Mental Health Professionals

Cost: $49.95

Bio

Mary Travis holds a PhD in Human and Organizational Development and an Ed. S. in School Psychology.  Her clients benefit from individualized approaches as well as her extensive experience working in and with school systems (public and private).

Travis Psycho-Educational Services in Winter Park offers a full range of evaluation services (Gifted, Specific Learning Disability, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder– AD/HD), individual and group counseling/coaching, parent programs and staff development.  Trichotillomania (compulsive hair-pulling), Nonverbal Learning Disability, and work with victims of bullying are counseling specialties.  Mary works in these areas beginning at pre-adolescence (age 10) and continuing through adulthood..