An introduction to the use of Exposure and Response Prevention for the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
In this introductory talk, Scott will offer a grounded, accessible overview of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and the evidence-based treatment approach known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
He’ll walk through the primary OCD presentations—including contamination, checking, symmetry, and common Pure-O themes—and highlight how OCD differs in structure and function from other anxiety disorders.
Scott will also explore the central role of uncertainty, anxiety, and habituation in treatment, and demonstrate how ERP, paired with psychoeducation, mindfulness, and acceptance-based strategies, can help clients build tolerance, flexibility, and freedom from compulsive cycles.
Light snacks and refreshments will be served.
Presenter bio: Post-graduation from Saint Mary’s College of California’s MFT program in 2017, I had no idea what “type” of therapist I wanted to be, how I wanted to practice, and who I wanted to serve. Part of me wondered if perhaps I had chosen the wrong career path, but figured I would complete my 3,000 hours and see where life took me.
Through a series of events and an observation of the lack of evidenced based treatments for OCD within the Contra Costa County Behavioral Health system, I began to work with clients within the county health system seeking support for symptoms of OCD. Through reading treatment manuals, online research, and attending the international OCD conference, I learned what I could and began implementing Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to the best of my ability. After seeing the power and efficacy of ERP and mindfulness techniques in the context of OCD treatment, I was sold!
After three years working for the county, I left for a position as a case manager in an adjacent part of behavioral health, which allowed me to fulfill a dream of mine since I was 19 years old- to live in Hawaii. After two and a half years away from California and from the OCD community, I returned to California and soon thereafter opened/ steadily built a private practice focussed primarily on the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Working with folks who suffer with OCD is an honor and, by far, been the most fulfilling part of my career. To be part of a process in which clients can regain parts of their lives they thought lost forever, to see them no longer live in constant fear of their brain and the thoughts it presents - has been a gift.