DBT-enhanced habit reversal treatment for trichotillomania: 3-and 6-month follow-up results

Abstract

Background: Maintenance of gains with cognitive‐behavioral treatment for trichotillomania (TTM) has historically been problematic. Methods: We conducted follow‐up assessments 3 and 6 months after completion of a 3‐month maintenance phase on 10 individuals with DSM‐IV‐TR TTM who participated in an open trial of a dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)‐enhanced habit reversal treatment (HRT). Results: Significant improvement from baseline was reported at 3‐and 6‐month follow‐up on all measures of hair pulling severity and emotion regulation, although some worsening was reported on some measures from earlier study time points. At 6‐month follow‐up, five and four participants were full and partial responders, respectively. Significant correlations were reported at both follow‐up time points between changes in hair pulling severity and emotion regulation capacity. Conclusions: DBT‐enhanced HRT offers promise for improved long‐term treatment results in TTM. Changes in TTM severity from baseline to 3‐and 6‐month follow‐up is correlated with changes in emotion regulation capacity. Depression and Anxiety, 2011.