Comprehensive Model for Behavioral Treatment for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (COMB)

What is COMB?

The Comprehensive Model for Behavioral Treatment (COMB) is a framework for addressing Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), such as hair-pulling (trichotillomania), skin-picking (excoriation disorder), or nail-biting (onychophagia disorder). COMB combines multiple therapeutic strategies tailored to help individuals understand their behaviors and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

How COMB Works

COMB is a flexible, personalized approach that includes:

Self-Monitoring: Clients may track their BFRBs to become more aware of the triggers and patterns associated with their behaviors.

Awareness Training: Building awareness of the emotional, cognitive, and environmental factors that contribute to the BFRB.

Stimulus Control: Modifying the environment to reduce the likelihood of engaging in BFRBs, such as removing tweezers or mirrors in the case of skin-picking.

Competing Response Training: Teaching alternative behaviors that are incompatible with the BFRB, such as squeezing a stress ball instead of pulling hair.

Cognitive Restructuring: Addressing unhelpful thoughts or beliefs that may perpetuate the behavior, such as feelings of shame or guilt.

Who Can Benefit from COMB?

COMB is highly effective for individuals with BFRBs, including trichotillomania, skin-picking disorder, and other repetitive behaviors. It is particularly useful for those who have struggled with these behaviors for years and are looking for a structured, multi-component approach to treatment.

COMB at the Mindfulness & Change Group

Our therapists are trained in the COMB model and work with clients to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the behavioral and emotional aspects of BFRBs. We focus on creating practical strategies that help clients reduce their repetitive behaviors and regain control over their lives.