Edie Gardner, LCSW

ERP is the gold standard treatment for OCD, and HRT is also effective for related OCD disorders. I supplement ERP with CBT tools to uncover the roots of obsessions and fears. I consider myself an OCD archeologist because I delve into how you first started using compulsions to feel safe. I prefer to offer structured OCD treatment programs. One such program is 13 weeks of intensive ERP work. After ERP tools are learned, I offer a 13 week program of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) that changes the limited core beliefs from OCD.

ERP is the gold standard treatment, and Habit Reversal Training (HRT) is an excellent addition to treatment for hair pulling, skin picking, and body focused repetitive behaviors. I also use CBT tools to address limited core beliefs that hold one back from living their best lives.

I was trained extensively with NOCD and worked as an independent contractor for NOCD for three years. In addition to having many “graduates” of ERP treatment, I have additionally treated co-occurring disorders, especially Illness Anxiety, Social Anxiety, ADHD, and phobias. I have specialized training in offering Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD and trauma. Many with OCD benefit from trauma treatment as well. Responsibility is my practice’s common theme and focus. I train others to be their own therapist and to have peace of mind.

As someone who has had OCD myself since early childhood, I understand how painful it can feel to carry an overwhelming sense of responsibility and to live with intrusive thoughts for preventing harm that others cannot see. I also know that the capable person others see on the outside may not reflect the intense internal struggle happening in their mind.

I have worked with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including those from collectivist communities where the well-being of the group, family expectations, and caregiving roles may be central to someone with OCD’s identity. These values can sometimes intensify responsibility, guilt, or fear of letting others down. These experiences can intersect with OCD. I aim to understand each client’s personal cultural context and history and am sensitive to a client’s values, family dynamics, and lived experience.