Habit Disorders

Counselling for Habit Disorders in Bridgend, Cardiff, Carmarthen, Newport, and Porthcawl

Habit disorders involve repetitive behaviours that may feel difficult or impossible to control. These habits can be physical, emotional, or behavioural and may develop as coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, boredom, or emotional discomfort. Common habit disorders include nail biting, hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking, compulsive checking, or repeated rituals. Habit disorders can cause distress, frustration, and shame, but counselling provides a supportive space to understand the underlying causes and develop healthier ways to cope.

Common Types of Habit Disorders

• Nail biting (onychophagia)
• Hair pulling (trichotillomania)
• Skin picking (dermatillomania)
• Compulsive checking or repetitive behaviours
• Compulsive cleaning or organising
• Habitual worrying or rumination
• Repeated rituals used to reduce anxiety or discomfort

Common Symptoms of Habit Disorders

• Repetitive behaviours that feel difficult to stop
• Temporary relief followed by shame, guilt, or frustration
• Physical signs such as skin damage, hair loss, or nail issues
• Using habits to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional discomfort
• Feeling out of control or trapped by the behaviour
• Impact on daily functioning, confidence, or relationships

Causes of Habit Disorders

• Stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm
• Trauma or unresolved emotional experiences
• Perfectionism or high internal pressure
• Genetic or neurological factors (in some cases)
• Learned behaviour or coping strategies from childhood
• Difficulty managing emotions or boredom

Treatments for Habit Disorders

Counselling can be highly effective in reducing or stopping unwanted habits. Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT), emotional regulation, and mindfulness-based strategies help individuals understand triggers, develop alternative behaviours, and reduce the urge to engage in the habit. At iTT, our counsellors provide a compassionate, structured approach to help clients regain control and create long-term, positive change.

A typical counselling treatment plan for habit disorders includes:

• An initial assessment to understand the behaviour, history, and triggers
• Identifying emotional or situational triggers for the habit
• Developing alternative responses and healthier coping mechanisms
• Challenging thoughts that maintain or justify the behaviour
• Building long-term strategies to manage stress and maintain progress