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OCD and Anxiety Therapist
Helpful Information and Resources
What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
OCD is defined as experiencing Obsession or repeated unwanted thoughts and Compulsions which are behaviors aimed at neutralizing obsessions. OCD has historically been classified as incurable, but recent treatments are proving to eliminate OCD. Please visit the International OCD Foundation Website for more information about OCD and treatment.
What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?
GAD is defined as excessive worry interfering with daily activities and well-being. GAD can persist for years without treatment. GAD is effectively treated with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and/or Metacognitive Therapy (MCT). For more information please visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America(ADAA) website
What is Social Anxiety?
Social anxiety is defined as a persistent fear of negative evaluation or judgement from others. Social anxiety has a substantial impact on mood, social interaction, and quality of life. Social anxiety is treated with CBT and MCT. Please visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America for more information.
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
Most people experience a trauma in their lifetime, and a significant portion will develop PTSD. PTSD is defined as fear and avoidance of things related to a traumatic event. Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) are effective treatments for PTSD. For more information visit the National Institute of Mental Health.
What is Selective Mutism?
When a child will only speak around family they may be diagnosed with Selective Mutism; this is a manifestation of social anxiety disorder in children. Selective Mutism is treated with CBT. Please visit the Selective Mutism Association for more information.
What is Depression
Depression has many symptoms including sadness, lack of enjoyment in daily activities, too much or too little sleeping, feelings of worthless, guilt, and more. Depression may come and go in waves or stay with a person persistently. Depression is treated using CBT and often times treatment for anxiety/OCD will improve depression. For more information visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
What if my problem isn't here?
Many people experience symptoms that do not fall exactly into one diagnostic box. A therapist who can understand complex and intertwined struggle and develop a comprehensive treatment plan for long-term wellness is an important factor for success!
What if I'm afraid to change?
It is not uncommon people to attend therapy eager to change and also clinging to old ways of thinking or acting. If there is fear about change, use it in therapy to help reclaim your life!
Types of Therapy Utilized by Dr. Brandt
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is focused on understanding the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and actively working to change these relations to reduce anxiety, depression, and other concerns. CBT for OCD is called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and focuses on facing feared stimuli without rituals. For more information about CBT visit the American Psychological Association.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT focuses on understanding the relationship between thoughts and feelings and working to increase flexibility in how people respond to their thoughts and feelings with the end goal of engaging in behavior that is more in line with our values and less in line with anxiety, OCD, or depression. For more information on ACT please visit the Association of Contextual and Behavioral Sciences.
Metacognitive Therapy (MCT)
MCT is therapy focused on understanding and modifying "metacognitions" or thoughts about thoughts. Metacognitive Therapy has been effectively used to treat anxiety and mood disorders including OCD and GAD. For more information please visit the Metacognitive Therapy Institute.