Dedicated to mental health & technology, social justice, and social work, with a focus on helping vulnerable populations and people with Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs).
Mission: Helping Clients Treat and Manage their BFRBs
Compassionate Approach
We believe in a non-judgmental and supportive environment, tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
Evidence-Based Care
Our treatment plans are based on the latest research and proven effective in addressing BFRBs.
Empowering Clients
We empower clients to understand their behaviors and develop strategies for long-term success.
Treating Every Kind of BFRB
Hair Pulling (Trichotillomania)
Hair pulling from scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes leading to hair loss.
Skin Picking (Dermatillomania)
Skin picking resulting in skin damage, bleeding, and shame/isolation.
Nail Biting
Common BFRB often linked to anxiety.
Lip or Cheek Biting
These behaviors often are based on behaviors like chewing the inside of cheeks or picking at chapped lips.
Skin Biting/Hair Swallowing
Some people chew on their skin or cuticles or swallow their hair after pulling them out.
Compulsive Nose Picking
People may suffer from a compulsion to pick their nose.
Licensed in 4 States
New York
Massachussetts
Minnesota
Tennessee
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-Harming
Chronic Illnesses
Phobias
Additional Services
Comprehensive consulting services tailored to your company's needs, specializing in AI, mental health, podcasting and social work.
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.
Current Projects
Recently launched podcast focused on Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, providing support and resources for the BFRB community.
Private practice established in 2022, specializing in BFRB treatment and support services.
Helping bring social workers and clinicians together through community, resources and training.
About Me
Jose Alvear, LCSW, is a bilingual therapist with a private practice focusing on helping people with body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) such as hair pulling or skin picking. He is also a mental health podcaster, co-hosting The BFRB Podcast with advocate Ashley Robles. Jose's passion lies in serving vulnerable populations, including the homeless, impoverished, elderly, at-risk youth, immigrants, and those with chronic health conditions.
His personal journey living with dermatillomania (chronic skin picking) fueled Jose's dedication to mental health. His experience with BFRBs, including the shame, stigma and lack of awareness, led him to create the blog "Diary of a Skin Picker" ​to share his recovery and support others.
The inclusion of skin picking in the DSM-5 in 2013 solidified his commitment to advocacy and mental health provision. He pursued his MSW from NYU Silver School of Social Work, graduating in 2016, and continues to raise awareness about BFRBs and promote diversity in social work.
Prior to his social work career, Jose worked 20 years as a writer and research analyst in the tech industry. He now combines his personal and professional experiences to advocate for those affected by BFRBs and reduce mental health stigma.
From Tech to Social Work: A Career Transition
My journey from BFRB patient to therapist has shaped my unique approach to treatment. As someone who has personally experienced the challenges of living with a body-focused repetitive behavior, I bring a deep understanding and empathy to my work with clients. Through my own healing process, I've developed effective strategies and techniques that I'm passionate about sharing with others. My unique background combines personal experience, technical expertise, and a passion for helping others, making me a valuable advocate in the mental health field.
Teenage Years
Struggled with undiagnosed skin picking disorder, experiencing the isolation and shame that many of my clients describe today.
Career in Technology as Research Analyst
Spent 20 years in tech, developing analytical skills while privately managing my BFRB - an experience that now informs my therapeutic approach.
2007: Discovery & Beginning of Change
Learned about dermatillomania and started anonymous "Diary of a Skin Picker" blog, creating a supportive community for others with BFRBs.
2014: Beginning of Education
Transitioned careers by enrolling in NYU's Social Work program while maintaining BFRB community involvement.
2016: Professional Transition
Graduated from NYU and began specialized training in BFRB treatments, including ComB therapy and HRT.
2017-2021: Building Expertise
Worked in clinical settings while pursuing BFRB specialization and developing treatment approaches that combine therapy with technology.
2022: Professional Achievement
Opened BFRB Institute private practice, offering specialized treatment options for people living with BFRBs.
Present Day
Focused on expanding BFRB treatment accessibility through innovative approaches and building a network of specialized therapists nationwide. Started The BFRB Podcast in 2024.
Jose Alvear, LCSW: BFRB Therapist and Podcaster