Treatment approach

Treatment begins an assessment of the presenting problems. I want to understand what you are experiencing and what is getting in the way of you living your life to the fullest. After that, we build a plan of treatment together and begin the journey together!

The most effective treatments for OCD and Phobias are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and/or medication.  More specifically, the most effective treatments for OCD and phobias are a type of CBT called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) which has the strongest evidence supporting its use in the treatment of OCD, and/or a class of medications called serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. For trauma, I prefer prolonged exposure or Written Exposure Therapy (WET).

Exposure and Response Prevention is typically done by a licensed mental health professional (such as a psychologist, social worker, or mental health counselor) in an outpatient setting. This means you visit your therapist’s office at a set appointment time once or a few times a week. I also offer off site appointments which can be very effective during exposure therapy. When appropriate, I offer a more intensive treatment approach over several hours up to three times each week. Email and texting support is a part of this services. Prices for this varies.

Medications can only be prescribed by a licensed medical professionals (such as your physician or a psychiatrist), who would ideally work together with your therapist to develop a treatment plan.

Taken together, ERP and medication are considered the “first-line” treatments for OCD. In other words, START HERE! About 70% of people will benefit from ERP and/or medication for their OCD. As with all psychotherapy, the treatment plan must fit your needs. You are the expert in you!