Michelle Lyons, PhD

I offer specialized individual evidence-based therapy for OCD, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia virtually to adults in California or in-person in San Diego. I primarily deliver Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) with integrated ACT skills. My style is collaborative, validating, and results-oriented. We will work together to establish and meet treatment goals that reduce your experience of distress while promoting deeper meaning and value in your life. My goal is to help you take your life back from OCD and anxiety! And the success I see in my clients is what keeps me passionate about this work.

I take a paced, trauma-informed approach that integrates ERP for OCD with ACT and evidence-based strategies for PTSD (such as Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR). We begin by gaining clarity about how trauma and OCD interact. I help you distinguish trauma memories from intrusive obsessions so exposures are targeted, ethical, and effective. Treatment focuses on reducing avoidance, strengthening emotional flexibility, and reconnecting with your values. Instead of eliminating fear or uncertainty, you learn to face them with confidence and compassion. The goal is meaningful, lasting change-freeing you to reclaim parts of your life that OCD and trauma have limited.

I received my PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Nevada. I completed my predoctoral internship at VA Boston and my postdoctoral fellowship at UC San Diego/VA San Diego. VA training programs have a reputation for excellent training in evidence-based treatments and much of my training focused on exposure-based methods which is the foundation for treatment of OCD. I also attended a four-day intensive workshop in Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy for OCD delivered by Cognitive Behavior Institute Center for Education. My training and experiences provide me with the background necessary to offer the most effective therapy for OCD.

Diversity and inclusion was emphasized throughout my training and I continue to dedicate time to continued education. Providing a safe, informed, and validating environment to those who have been underserved and oppressed in their communities is an important aspect of my therapeutic approach. I have also served on Diversity Committees at various institutions where I have trained including the University of Nevada, VA Boston, and VA San Diego/UCSD. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and also have specific competencies in working with military service members.