Therapy Issues

Skin Picking (Excoriation Disorder)

Are you struggling with the effects of skin picking (excoriation disorder)?

Right now, as a result of skin picking (excoriation disorder), you may be experiencing:

 

  • Recurrent picking at your skin that results in lesions, scabs, or scarring despite attempts to stop
  • Intense urges or compulsions to pick that feel impossible to resist in the moment
  • Significant time spent picking, thinking about picking, or covering up the damage from picking
  • Shame and embarrassment about the visible effects of picking that lead to social avoidance
  • Elaborate routines around picking, including specific tools, lighting, or mirrors used during episodes
  • Distress when unable to pick or when trying to resist the urge to pick
  • A cycle of temporary relief or satisfaction during picking followed by guilt and regret afterward

Your skin picking (excoriation disorder) may be getting in the way of your life in these ways:

  • Your social interactions are limited by embarrassment about visible picking damage or fear of being caught picking
  • Your professional image may be affected by visible skin damage that’s difficult to conceal
  • Your self-esteem suffers from feelings of shame, lack of control, and frustration with continued picking
  • Your physical health is compromised by infections, scarring, or other complications from picking
  • Your daily functioning is interrupted by time-consuming picking episodes and their aftermath

You’re wondering…

  • Why can’t I just stop picking when I know it’s harmful and I want to stop?
  • Is this a sign of weakness or lack of willpower, or is there something else going on?
  • How can I manage the intense urges to pick that seem to overtake my rational thinking?
  • Will the damage to my skin ever heal, or will I always have visible reminders of this struggle?
  • What treatments actually work for skin picking when nothing I’ve tried has helped long-term?

You’re longing for…

  • Freedom from the compulsive cycle of skin picking that feels beyond your control
  • Healthy skin that you don’t feel compelled to scan for imperfections or “fixable” spots.
  • Effective strategies to manage stress and uncomfortable emotions without resorting to picking.
  • Confidence to engage socially without worrying about visible skin damage or being caught picking.
  • Self-compassion that allows you to view this as a legitimate medical condition rather than a character flaw.

How we can help you.

At Evergreen Counseling, we understand that skin picking (excoriation disorder) is a complex body-focused repetitive behavior with neurobiological underpinnings, not a simple habit or lack of willpower. Our therapists create a shame-free environment where you can explore the patterns and triggers of your picking behavior while developing effective strategies for change.

What you’re longing for is possible.

By pursuing trauma therapy for skin picking (excoriation disorder), you can imagine the following:

Before Therapy After Therapy

You feel trapped in a cycle of picking despite your best intentions to stop and repeated promises to yourself.

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You recognize early warning signs of picking urges and implement effective strategies before picking occurs.

Your skin shows visible damage that causes embarrassment and limits your social or professional engagement.

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You understand your specific picking patterns and triggers, allowing you to create personalized prevention plans.

You experience intense urges to pick that seem impossible to resist once they begin.

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You have developed healthier ways to manage stress, boredom, or other emotional states that trigger picking.

You feel deep shame about your picking, viewing it as a personal failure rather than a recognized condition.

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You approach setbacks with self-compassion rather than shame, allowing for continued progress rather than giving up.

Your attempts to stop have been short-lived, leading to discouragement about the possibility of recovery.

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You experience longer periods without picking and less severe episodes when picking does occur.

What if I’m Not Ready?

Not Quite Ready to Book a Complimentary Concierge Matching Call? That’s Okay.

We understand that taking the first step towards therapy can feel overwhelming. We’re here to make this decision easier for you.

Starting therapy can bring up mixed feelings—part of you might be eager, while another part hesitates to confront deeply buried emotions. You might doubt whether therapy can help, especially if you’ve struggled for a long time or had disappointing experiences with untrained therapists or life coaches. At Evergreen Counseling, our trauma-trained therapists are deeply committed to providing expert care.

Here’s How We Can Help You Move Forward

  • Complimentary Concierge Matching Call: Our concierge matching call is an opportunity for you to ask questions, share your concerns, and see if our approach feels right for you—without any obligation.
  • Reimbursement Options: Concerned about the cost? We can guide you on how to get reimbursed for therapy using your out-of-network insurance benefits, making high-quality care more accessible to you.
  • Informed Decision: Whether you’re ready to start or still exploring your options, we want you to feel fully informed and confident in your choice.

Schedule Your Complimentary Concierge Matching Call

Schedule Now

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