Kristen McDonald PhD

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 psychosocial rehabilitation through the Veterans Affairs health care system, and 9 years serving as a psychologist at UCLA. I was a primary therapist and clinical supervisor at the UCLA OCD Intensive Outpatient Program from 2020-2024. I have attended a wide range of trainings and conferences on OCD and related disorders over the years, including most recently the 2023 IOCDF conference in Denver.

OCD Group therapy for adults (18+), meeting weekly in person in Santa Monica on Wednesday evenings, 6:00-7:15pm. This is a space to learn new ERP skills and also increase your sense of connection with others. Combat the isolation of OCD by joining us and giving/receiving support.