
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.
Compulsive hair pulling affecting scalp, eyebrows, or other body areas.
Recurrent picking at skin, causing tissue damage and emotional distress.
Chronic biting of fingernails or surrounding skin, often causing injury.
Including cheek biting, lip biting, and other repetitive self-grooming behaviors.
In addition to working with people with BFRBs, Jose has also worked with many different populations including:

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.
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.
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.
Statewide virtual appointments. We offer comprehensive behavioral therapy, CBT, and ERP.
Convenient online therapy sessions. We provide personalized treatment plans for all BFRBs.
Statewide virtual BFRB treatment. We offer both individual and group therapy options.
Convenient virtual appointments specializing in Habit Reversal Training and ComB.
We understand that mental health care can be costly. We offer a range of payment options to make treatment accessible for everyone.
We work with many insurance providers, simplifying the process of accessing benefits.
We offer a sliding scale fee structure, based on individual income and financial situation, to ensure affordable care for everyone.
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.
A holistic approach addressing multiple aspects of BFRBs.
Focusing on changing thought patterns and behaviors.
Gradually facing triggers without engaging in BFRB behaviors.
Learning to recognize and redirect BFRB urges.
Schedule your FREE 15-minute consultation and take the first step toward healing.
Personalized one-on-one sessions tailored to your specific BFRB and needs.
Supportive group sessions fostering shared experiences and coping strategies.
Convenient online therapy sessions accessible from the comfort of your home.
Continuous care and resources to help maintain progress and prevent relapse.
Comprehensive consulting services tailored to your company's needs, specializing in AI, mental health, podcasting and social work. Individual or group supervision is available.
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.
Providing key workshops and seminars on topics like, an Introduction to BFRBs, using AI technology and more, both virtually and in-person.
Stay informed about the latest advancements in BFRB news, research and patient resources. Learn more about BFRB Institute's professional treatment options.