Katie Fracalanza PhD
I specialize in evidence-based treatment for OCD and anxiety disorders, which make up about 70% of my practice. I have treated hundreds of individuals with OCD using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), combined with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and compassion-based approaches. My work focuses on helping people understand old learning patterns, recognize what’s helpful and what’s not, and build new learning through real-life experiences that support their goals and values—all within a warm, supportive environment where you feel understood and cared for as you grow.
In addition to specializing in OCD, I help people with social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. Treatment starts with a careful assessment to understand what’s keeping you stuck and how anxiety or avoidance shows up in your life. Together, we’ll build a step-by-step plan to face feared situations with support, both in and between sessions (i.e., through exposure). You’ll also learn skills to challenge unhelpful beliefs, connect more deeply with yourself, care for your emotions with compassion, and strengthen your relationships with others.
I am the Director of Psychotherapy in the OCD Clinic at Stanford University, where I’ve specialized in treating OCD and anxiety for over 17 years. About 70% of my practice focuses on OCD. I combine Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), ACT, CBT, and compassion-based therapies to help people understand old learning patterns, build new experiences, and move toward their values. My approach integrates self-compassion with exposure work, supporting you in facing fears while connecting with yourself in a warm, caring environment. It’s my passion to help people overcome avoidance and build fuller, more meaningful lives.
I approach therapy with a commitment to cultural humility—recognizing that I am not the expert on your lived experience, and that effective care requires ongoing listening, learning, and partnership. I welcome people of all identities and backgrounds, and strive to create an affirming, inclusive space. Throughout my training and career, I have engaged in ongoing education, supervision, and reflection on the impact of culture, power, and systemic inequities on mental health. Together, we will consider your unique values and experiences as we adapt evidence-based therapies to support you as a whole person.
Group Name: Self-Compassion for Stress and Anxiety Group
Schedule: 6-week virtual series; dates/times vary
Description: This 6-week virtual group helps participants manage stress and anxiety by learning to treat themselves with greater kindness and compassion. Through guided practices and group discussion, participants build skills to respond to life’s challenges with less self-criticism and more emotional resilience.
Fee: $100 per session (out-of-network)
Insurance: In-network with Aetna
Website: https://californiapsychologycenter.com/selfcompassion/