Photo of Cognitive Behavior Institute, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 15235, PA
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(412) 307-9897 View (412) 307-9897
Photo of Heidi McKenzie, Psychologist in 15235, PA
Heidi McKenzie
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Penn Hills, PA 15235
I'm an experienced, licensed psychologist who helps people get "unstuck" from unhelpful behavior patterns. Whether you're facing a temporary, difficult life situation or struggling with more long-standing problems like depression or anxiety, I can help. My style is direct and active - I don't simply nod my head while you talk. I'll listen closely, we'll work together on the problem and I'll offer you supportive, non-judgmental and practical feedback that will help you to navigate through the issue as quickly and effectively as possible.
I'm an experienced, licensed psychologist who helps people get "unstuck" from unhelpful behavior patterns. Whether you're facing a temporary, difficult life situation or struggling with more long-standing problems like depression or anxiety, I can help. My style is direct and active - I don't simply nod my head while you talk. I'll listen closely, we'll work together on the problem and I'll offer you supportive, non-judgmental and practical feedback that will help you to navigate through the issue as quickly and effectively as possible.
(412) 567-8902 View (412) 567-8902
Photo of Richard States, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15235, PA
Richard States
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
People of all walks of life often go through tough times ... and I am here to help. I have worked, since 1991, with individuals, couples, and families across outpatient and inpatient settings, in homes and schools, and now through telehealth. I have assisted people with a variety of challenges--whether related to depression, anxiety, stress and trauma, behavioral control, self-esteem, substance use, life transition, and other concerns.
People of all walks of life often go through tough times ... and I am here to help. I have worked, since 1991, with individuals, couples, and families across outpatient and inpatient settings, in homes and schools, and now through telehealth. I have assisted people with a variety of challenges--whether related to depression, anxiety, stress and trauma, behavioral control, self-esteem, substance use, life transition, and other concerns.
(724) 200-8481 View (724) 200-8481
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists

Do I need exposure and response prevention therapy?

Many clients decide to seek help for obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors when these symptoms are distressing enough to disrupt everyday life. Any thoughts or behaviors that cause friction in close relationships are also worth addressing. In addition, the client’s symptoms don’t have to be severe for them to benefit from ERP therapy.

Is exposure and response prevention therapy part of cognitive behavioral therapy?

Exposure and response prevention is one specific type of CBT that focuses on behavioral change in response to triggering stimuli. It is related to exposure therapy but adds an additional component of preventing compulsive and harmful responses.

How long does exposure and response prevention therapy take?

While every patient is different, exposure and response prevention therapy typically lasts around 12 sessions, although some treatments can take longer. A therapist will determine if the treatment is complete based on how the client faces their fears, particularly the strongest ones. When a client feels less anxiety about stimuli that once evoked terror or distress, that is generally an indication that they are nearing the end of ERP therapy.

What are the limitations of exposure and response prevention therapy?

The most common pitfalls of exposure and response prevention therapy include not addressing a client’s core fears, allowing the client to avoid their most distressing stimuli, and using imaginary exposure when the client requires real-life exposure (and vice versa). ERP therapy is most effective when the client commits to the full course of treatment; if the client stops early or doesn’t practice what they have learned outside of therapy sessions, they are less likely to have successful outcomes.