Hoarding Therapists in V6A
Galina Freed
Counsellor, MC , RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6A (Online Only)
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the amount of possessions in your home? Do you struggle with letting go of things that you own? Do you sometimes experience conflict with people in your life about keeping too many things? Are you at times fearful or mistrustful of helpers, as you worry that they may force you to discard things that are important to you? I work extensively with what is clinically known as “hoarding disorder”. Some people find the label helpful, while others believe it to be harmful and stigmatizing – understandably so.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the amount of possessions in your home? Do you struggle with letting go of things that you own? Do you sometimes experience conflict with people in your life about keeping too many things? Are you at times fearful or mistrustful of helpers, as you worry that they may force you to discard things that are important to you? I work extensively with what is clinically known as “hoarding disorder”. Some people find the label helpful, while others believe it to be harmful and stigmatizing – understandably so.
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Hoarding Counsellors
What is the most effective treatment for hoarding?
Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) has been well-studied in the treatment of hoarding. This type of therapy includes changing beliefs surrounding possessions, as well as learning how to discard items and reduce acquisitions. The hoarder may also gain much-needed organizational skills. Another useful therapy may be compassion-focused therapy, which can address emotion regulation and negative self-perception.
How long does therapy for hoarding take?
Although treatment can vary, most people demonstrate improvement after 23 sessions, with some showing improvement after just a few sessions. Researchers have developed a 26-session cognitive behavioral program. People who hoard may need “maintenance” sessions over the years if the problem arises repeatedly.
Are there medications for hoarding?
The more commonly-prescribed medications for hoarding are including antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). This can include drugs such as venlafaxine and paroxetine. And because hoarding disorder is related to obsessive-compulsive disorder, medications for OCD, such as clomipramine, may be effective for hoarding as well.
Can hoarding come back after treatment?
Hoarding is a chronic disorder and it can last throughout an individual’s lifetime. Regularly checking in with a psychotherapist can help manage symptoms long-term. A good therapist will help the person learn needed skills including decision-making, organization, and stress reduction. The patient will gain a better perspective and the need to cling to useless items will lessen.