Kristen McDonald Ph.D.

individual psychotherapy, ERP, and referrals to other OCD specialists including group therapists. Approximately 70% of my practice is for OCD. I am also broadly trained and can effectively address many other diagnoses and concerns.

I routinely conduct ERP with clients who are experiencing depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, or other conditions. Typically we would prioritize treatment based on what is most bothersome or most important to address first, and then adjust our focus as we go forward. For example, if the depression is making it difficult to engage in ERP, I would treat the depression first through behavioral activation, CBT, and/or medication changes (via a psychiatrist) before proceeding with ERP.

I have been practicing as a psychologist for over 15 years, including post-doctoral training in severe mental illness through the Veterans Affairs health care system, and 8 years serving as a psychologist at UCLA. I have attended many workshops and trainings on OCD, including the recent IOCDF conference in Denver. In August of 2020, I began my current role as a behavioral therapist and clinical supervisor at the UCLA OCD IOP program. Currently I divide my time between the UCLA IOP program and my private practice.