Houston Anxiety and Wellness Center

Houston Anxiety and Wellness Center (HAWC) is a private-pay group psychology practice located in the Montrose area of Houston, Texas. Founded by Dr. Ivy Ruths, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist and clinical director, the practice was created to provide warm, evidence-based care for children, adolescents, adults, parents, and families struggling with anxiety and related disorders.

HAWC specializes in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), eating disorders including ARFID, perfectionism, and parenting-related challenges. The clinic is particularly known for its expertise in treating OCD using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), delivered in a collaborative, developmentally informed, and values-based manner. Treatment emphasizes facing fears, reducing avoidance and safety behaviors, and building confidence through real-world practice.

Clinicians at HAWC are trained in evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ERP, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), and mindfulness-based interventions. The team collaborates with parents, schools, and medical providers when appropriate to support coordinated care.

The practice offers outpatient therapy as well as individualized intensive outpatient treatment options, allowing care to be tailored to symptom severity, developmental needs, and family circumstances. Services include individual therapy, parent coaching, family sessions, and structured programs such as CBT-based children’s camps and parent groups. Treatment is provided in person at the Montrose office and virtually for clients across Texas and all PsyPact states.

HAWC prioritizes continuity of care through relapse prevention planning, booster sessions, and follow-up consultations as clients transition out of active treatment.

Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders:

We treat OCD alongside common co-occurring conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders, and tic/Tourette disorders. Care is individualized and anchored in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), with co-occurring symptoms addressed through integrated CBT, ACT, and parent coaching. When appropriate, we coordinate care with schools, physicians, and other providers.

Diversity Statement:

Houston Anxiety and Wellness Center is committed to providing inclusive, culturally responsive care that honors the diverse identities, backgrounds, and lived experiences of our clients and families. We strive to create a welcoming, affirming environment where individuals feel respected and understood. Clinicians engage in ongoing training, consultation, and self-reflection to reduce bias and improve cultural humility. Treatment is individualized and collaborative, with attention to cultural, contextual, and systemic factors that may influence mental health and access to care.

OCD Specialists at this Clinic:

• Ivy Ruths, PhD
• Alyssa Hertz, PsyD