What types of therapy do you offer?

I specialize in evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Inference-Based CBT (ICBT). These approaches are especially effective for OCD, anxiety, and related struggles. Therapy is tailored to your needs, & we’ll go at a pace that feels manageable & meaningful.

Do you work with children or teens?

Yes! I work with kids, teens, and young adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, or emotion regulation. Sessions are age-appropriate and include caregiver support as needed. If your child is stuck in worry, rituals, or avoidance, I can help you both understand what’s going on and build tools to move forward.

Do you offer in-person or virtual therapy?

Both! I offer in-person sessions at my office in Irwin, PA, and telehealth for clients anywhere in Pennsylvania. We'll choose the format that works best for your schedule, comfort, and needs.

What is ERP and how does it work?

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold-standard treatment for OCD. It involves gradually facing fears or triggers while resisting compulsions, building confidence and reducing anxiety over time. It’s done collaboratively and with care, never forced or rushed.

I’m not sure if it’s OCD or just anxiety. Can you still help?

Absolutely. Many people don’t realize they have OCD, or they feel unsure about what their symptoms mean. I’ll help you sort through what you’re experiencing and figure out what kind of support makes sense. You don’t need a perfect label to start feeling better.

What’s the Difference Between I-CBT, ERP, and ACT?

These are all evidence-based therapies that help people with OCD and anxiety, but they approach things in different (and complementary) ways. Here's a quick breakdown:

ERP stands for Exposure and Response Prevention. It's considered the gold-standard treatment for OCD. ERP helps your brain unlearn the idea that discomfort = danger.

• You gradually face the situations, thoughts, or images that trigger your anxiety (Exposure)

• You learn to resist the urge to do compulsions or avoidance behaviors (Response Prevention)

• Over time, your brain learns: “I can handle this. I’m safe. I don’t need the ritual.”

I-CBT stands for Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It’s a newer but well-researched approach that focuses on how the OCD story begins in the first place. I-CBT helps you step out of the OCD story and back into what’s real.

• ICBT teaches you to notice when you're stepping into an OCD-driven “what if” scenario

• It helps you connect back to your senses, reality, and self-trust (instead of endlessly analyzing, doubting, or ruminating)

• This can be especially helpful if you have mental compulsions or constant rumination

ACT stands for Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. It helps you build a life around what matters most to you rather than around what your anxiety says is dangerous. ACT helps you stop the war in your head and move toward the life you want.

• You learn to “unhook” from painful thoughts without having to fight them

• You practice making room for discomfort (instead of avoiding it)

• You take action guided by your values, not your fears

Which therapy is right for me?

All three therapies can be used together or adapted depending on what you’re struggling with. At OCD & Anxiety Specialist, we personalize your treatment plan based on:

• Your symptoms and patterns

• How your OCD shows up (themes, compulsions, etc.)

• What approach feels most motivating and sustainable for you