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Welcome to the BFRB Institute, where we offer specialized, evidence-based treatment for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. Our mission is to provide compassionate care and effective solutions for people with trichotillomania, skin picking, nail biting, and other BFRBs.
Treatment for Every BFRB
Trichotillomania
Compulsive hair pulling affecting scalp, eyebrows, or other body areas.
Skin Picking Disorder
Recurrent picking at skin, causing tissue damage and emotional distress.
Nail Biting
Chronic biting of fingernails or surrounding skin, often causing injury.
Other BFRBs
Including cheek biting, lip biting, and other repetitive self-grooming behaviors.
Areas of Expertise
In addition to working with people with BFRBs, Jose has also worked with many different populations including:
Depression
Anxiety Disorders
OCD
PTSD
Bipolar Disorder
Self-Harm
Chronic Illnesses
Phobias
Meet Our Expert: Jose Alvear, LCSW
From Patient to Advocate
Jose Alvear's journey from skin picking patient to BFRB advocate to clinician gives him a unique perspective in treating BFRBs. His personal experience fuels his passion for raising awareness and providing effective treatment.
Expertise and Licensing
As a licensed clinical social worker, Jose specializes in treating all types of body-focused repetitive behaviors. He is currently licensed to practice in New York, Minnesota, Tennessee and Massachusetts, offering virtual appointments to clients in these states.
Host of The BFRB Podcast
The BFRB Podcast is hosted by licensed therapist Jose Alvear, LCSW, and advocate Ashley Robles. Through intimate conversations with mental health professionals and powerful personal stories of recovery, they provide expert insights, practical coping strategies, and vital resources for those affected by BFRBs.
Accepting New Clients Across Multiple States
New York
Statewide virtual appointments. We offer comprehensive behavioral therapy, CBT, and ERP.
Massachusetts
Convenient online therapy sessions. We provide personalized treatment plans for all BFRBs.
Minnesota
Statewide virtual BFRB treatment. We offer both individual and group therapy options.
Tennessee
Convenient virtual appointments specializing in Habit Reversal Training and ComB.
Clients outside the U.S.
Flexible Payment Options
Affordable Care
We understand that mental health care can be costly. We offer a range of payment options to make treatment accessible for everyone.
Insurance Coverage
We work with many insurance providers, simplifying the process of accessing benefits.
Sliding Scale Fees
We offer a sliding scale fee structure, based on individual income and financial situation, to ensure affordable care for everyone.
Out of Network
We offer out of network services for people who do not want to use insurance or want to be reimbursed. We assist with OON payment options.
Evidence-Based Treatment Modalities
Comprehensive Behavioral Treatment (ComB)
A holistic approach addressing multiple aspects of BFRBs.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Focusing on changing thought patterns and behaviors.
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP)
Gradually facing triggers without engaging in BFRB behaviors.
Habit Reversal Training (HRT)
Learning to recognize and redirect BFRB urges.
Start Healing Today
Begin Your Journey
Schedule your FREE 15-minute consultation and take the first step toward healing.
Our Comprehensive Treatment Approach
Individual Therapy
Personalized one-on-one sessions tailored to your specific BFRB and needs.
Group Therapy
Supportive group sessions fostering shared experiences and coping strategies.
Virtual Appointments
Convenient online therapy sessions accessible from the comfort of your home.
Ongoing Support
Continuous care and resources to help maintain progress and prevent relapse.
Additional Services
Consulting
Comprehensive consulting services tailored to your company's needs, specializing in AI, mental health, podcasting and social work. Individual or group supervision is available.
Supervision
Provide ongoing mentorship and guidance for early career therapists to enhance their skills and practice. Offer guidance and support to therapists working with clients with BFRBs.
Training
Providing key workshops and seminars on topics like, an Introduction to BFRBs, using AI technology and more, both virtually and in-person.
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