While I'm not a dermatologist, as a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders, I've worked extensively with clients struggling with dermatillomania. This condition falls within the body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB) spectrum and shares many treatment approaches with OCD. In my practice, I've found that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) combined with habit reversal training offers significant benefits. One dancer I worked with reduced picking episodes by implementing competing responses (holding ice cubes when urges arose) and practicing mindfulness to build awareness of triggering situations. For many clients, skin picking intensifies during periods of performance anxiety. I've observed this pattern frequently in my work with Houston Ballet dancers and athletes, where perfectionism and stress can manifest physically. Addressing these underlying factors through evidence-based CBT techniques often yields better results than focusing solely on stopping the behavior. I'd be happy to contribute to your Everyday Health article through an email interview. While connecting you with a dermatologist would be ideal for the skin-related aspects, I can offer valuable insights on the psychological treatment components based on my clinical experience with this condition.