Photo of Celina Larson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98004, WA
Celina Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACADC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I work with people to find a path to less stress, more enjoyment & pleasure in life. Working together we can develop & enhance the experiences of your life to feel more whole and fulfilling. Create a life more satisfying; transmute stress causing difficulty into energy for working towards your goals. Sometimes we are stuck in life situations that block creativity and success. Goals often include happiness, pain relief (physical, mental, spiritual, emotional), finding passion, achievement, self-awareness, productivity, insight, more socialization, healthy relationships (a new one), freedom, joy, meaning, and contentment with life.
I work with people to find a path to less stress, more enjoyment & pleasure in life. Working together we can develop & enhance the experiences of your life to feel more whole and fulfilling. Create a life more satisfying; transmute stress causing difficulty into energy for working towards your goals. Sometimes we are stuck in life situations that block creativity and success. Goals often include happiness, pain relief (physical, mental, spiritual, emotional), finding passion, achievement, self-awareness, productivity, insight, more socialization, healthy relationships (a new one), freedom, joy, meaning, and contentment with life.
(208) 295-0914 View (208) 295-0914
Hoarding Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for hoarding?

Cognitive behavior 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.