Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Sherri A Wandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sherri A Wandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
I trained extensively with premier institutions like the Beck Institute and U-Penn in CBT and ERP for anxiety and OCD.
My clients are looking for effective therapy to resolve or manage symptoms related to procrastination, AD/HD, trauma, anxiety, depression and OCD. They want to work with a therapist who has a high level of expertise and experience working with their particular struggles. They are motivated and ready to tackle the issues that interfere with feeling they are performing at their best at home and work. They want therapy in which they’re met with warmth and compassion and feel understood, respected and validated. My clients are university students, professionals in high performance careers, and professionals staying home to parent.
I trained extensively with premier institutions like the Beck Institute and U-Penn in CBT and ERP for anxiety and OCD.
My clients are looking for effective therapy to resolve or manage symptoms related to procrastination, AD/HD, trauma, anxiety, depression and OCD. They want to work with a therapist who has a high level of expertise and experience working with their particular struggles. They are motivated and ready to tackle the issues that interfere with feeling they are performing at their best at home and work. They want therapy in which they’re met with warmth and compassion and feel understood, respected and validated. My clients are university students, professionals in high performance careers, and professionals staying home to parent.
(872) 240-5105 View (872) 240-5105
Photo of Jessica Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jessica Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Jess utilizes evidence-based interventions including Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and operates from a Health At Every Size HAES perspective.
Jess Murphy, MEd, LPC, NCC, C-DBT graduated from the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at DePaul University and has recently joined SpringSource. She has immediate availability for new referrals. Jess specializes in the treatment of individuals struggling with eating disorders, body-image, life-transitions, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues for adolescents and adults. Her clinical foundation is rooted in psychodynamic theory while integrating a trauma informed care perspective. Through humor, empathy, and compassion Jess fosters a therapeutic space to help you achieve a higher sense of self.
Jess utilizes evidence-based interventions including Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and operates from a Health At Every Size HAES perspective.
Jess Murphy, MEd, LPC, NCC, C-DBT graduated from the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at DePaul University and has recently joined SpringSource. She has immediate availability for new referrals. Jess specializes in the treatment of individuals struggling with eating disorders, body-image, life-transitions, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues for adolescents and adults. Her clinical foundation is rooted in psychodynamic theory while integrating a trauma informed care perspective. Through humor, empathy, and compassion Jess fosters a therapeutic space to help you achieve a higher sense of self.
(630) 793-1148 View (630) 793-1148
Photo of Elle Skelton, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Elle Skelton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LPCMHSP, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I use CBT, ACT, ERP, BA, and DBT Skills to treat a variety of disorders including OCD, skin picking, hair pulling, hoarding, phobias, BDD, GAD, social anxiety, panic, depression, eating disorders, and others.
There are so many things outside of our control that are inevitably difficult to cope with. Even with the unforeseen situations and stressors that life throws our way, the one thing we do have control over is the way we respond to them. However, it is difficult to know how to respond when we are experiencing fear, anxiety, and other heightened emotions. I want to help people strengthen their coping capabilities in an environment that is open, non-judgmental, and collaborative. My goal is to provide support to individuals, couples, and families tackling every day and life stressors with more confidence, hope, self-empowerment.
I use CBT, ACT, ERP, BA, and DBT Skills to treat a variety of disorders including OCD, skin picking, hair pulling, hoarding, phobias, BDD, GAD, social anxiety, panic, depression, eating disorders, and others.
There are so many things outside of our control that are inevitably difficult to cope with. Even with the unforeseen situations and stressors that life throws our way, the one thing we do have control over is the way we respond to them. However, it is difficult to know how to respond when we are experiencing fear, anxiety, and other heightened emotions. I want to help people strengthen their coping capabilities in an environment that is open, non-judgmental, and collaborative. My goal is to provide support to individuals, couples, and families tackling every day and life stressors with more confidence, hope, self-empowerment.
(872) 204-1472 View (872) 204-1472
Photo of Jenna Schloss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jenna Schloss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel fatigued by anxiety and intrusive thoughts? Are you struggling to engage in your life in the way that you desire? I am here to help you navigate the waters and live a life of meaning without allowing anxiety to dictate what you do. I am passionate about working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety disorders. My area of specialization is treating individuals with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and BFRBs. I have received extensive training in ERP, ACT, CBT, and DBT and have ten years of experience in the mental health field.
Do you feel fatigued by anxiety and intrusive thoughts? Are you struggling to engage in your life in the way that you desire? I am here to help you navigate the waters and live a life of meaning without allowing anxiety to dictate what you do. I am passionate about working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety disorders. My area of specialization is treating individuals with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and BFRBs. I have received extensive training in ERP, ACT, CBT, and DBT and have ten years of experience in the mental health field.
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Photo of NOCD - Therapists for OCD, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
NOCD - Therapists for OCD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
(872) 231-0546 View (872) 231-0546
Photo of Julie Gruca, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Julie Gruca
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
We will use ERP and CBT in our work.
Let's be real, life is tough sometimes. You keep your head down and try to get through the day, only to be up at night fighting worries that won’t let go. You are stressed out, overwhelmed, and have little energy. Everything you do to try and be in control of your anxiety isn’t working, the intrusive and unwanted thoughts just keep coming. You can’t remember the last time you felt good. It’s difficult to know where to start, or how to sort it out on your own. Even though you’re feeling stuck, you sense the possibility that things could be different. Reconnecting to what makes life meaningful is not as far away as it might seem.
We will use ERP and CBT in our work.
Let's be real, life is tough sometimes. You keep your head down and try to get through the day, only to be up at night fighting worries that won’t let go. You are stressed out, overwhelmed, and have little energy. Everything you do to try and be in control of your anxiety isn’t working, the intrusive and unwanted thoughts just keep coming. You can’t remember the last time you felt good. It’s difficult to know where to start, or how to sort it out on your own. Even though you’re feeling stuck, you sense the possibility that things could be different. Reconnecting to what makes life meaningful is not as far away as it might seem.
(773) 917-8225 View (773) 917-8225
Photo of Ginny Nikiforos LCSW, ADHD Certified Provider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Ginny Nikiforos LCSW, ADHD Certified Provider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Waitlist for new clients
I also utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT) and Exposure-Response Prevention (ERP) for deeper understanding and emotional support, in addition to creating a motivating space for behavioral change.
There is a powerful connection between emotional wellbeing and behavioral change; I strive to create a balance where both can be nurtured and understood. I believe in establishing a safe space where you can better understand your values, your own unique set of strengths and challenges, and recognition of your thought and behavioral patterns that align to your values. I strive for a collaborative relationship where you can both set and attain goals and work towards creating increased fulfillment in your life. I am responsive, timely, and look forward to supporting your journey towards understanding, growth, and healing!
I also utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT) and Exposure-Response Prevention (ERP) for deeper understanding and emotional support, in addition to creating a motivating space for behavioral change.
There is a powerful connection between emotional wellbeing and behavioral change; I strive to create a balance where both can be nurtured and understood. I believe in establishing a safe space where you can better understand your values, your own unique set of strengths and challenges, and recognition of your thought and behavioral patterns that align to your values. I strive for a collaborative relationship where you can both set and attain goals and work towards creating increased fulfillment in your life. I am responsive, timely, and look forward to supporting your journey towards understanding, growth, and healing!
(773) 832-5782 View (773) 832-5782
Photo of NOCD - Therapists for OCD, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
NOCD - Therapists for OCD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
(872) 231-0752 View (872) 231-0752
Photo of Ana N Hedenstrom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ana N Hedenstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
When treating OCD and anxiety, I use ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
I believe that all healing happens within connection. All personal healing, in turn heals the collective. You are the creator of your own life. We will move down a path of self-actualization and change, utilizing your personal strengths to guide us. I am passionate about facilitating creative, client-centered and culturally-centered therapy. You are the expert on your life, and I will support you in transformative self-reflection and embodiment. When it comes to PTSD and trauma, I use somatic practices, EMDR Flash Technique, art therapy and attachment theory.
When treating OCD and anxiety, I use ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
I believe that all healing happens within connection. All personal healing, in turn heals the collective. You are the creator of your own life. We will move down a path of self-actualization and change, utilizing your personal strengths to guide us. I am passionate about facilitating creative, client-centered and culturally-centered therapy. You are the expert on your life, and I will support you in transformative self-reflection and embodiment. When it comes to PTSD and trauma, I use somatic practices, EMDR Flash Technique, art therapy and attachment theory.
(872) 204-0432 View (872) 204-0432
Photo of NOCD - Therapists for OCD, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
NOCD - Therapists for OCD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
(872) 231-0836 View (872) 231-0836
Photo of Michelle Elijah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michelle Elijah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
I am experienced in CBT, ACT, ERP, and often incorporate aspects of mindfulness into treatment.
I am a licensed psychotherapist who works predominately with teens and adults on issues like anxiety, overwhelm/stress, grief and emotional regulation. I also work with couples and am Gottman Level 1 certified. In sessions with me, you can expect a warm, supportive, and calming space for us to connect so that you feel seen and heard. I use a holistic and relational approach that encourages you to be an active participant in your own growth and healing. My goal is to help empower you to investigate and enhance your relationship with yourself in order to live a life that feels full and authentic.
I am experienced in CBT, ACT, ERP, and often incorporate aspects of mindfulness into treatment.
I am a licensed psychotherapist who works predominately with teens and adults on issues like anxiety, overwhelm/stress, grief and emotional regulation. I also work with couples and am Gottman Level 1 certified. In sessions with me, you can expect a warm, supportive, and calming space for us to connect so that you feel seen and heard. I use a holistic and relational approach that encourages you to be an active participant in your own growth and healing. My goal is to help empower you to investigate and enhance your relationship with yourself in order to live a life that feels full and authentic.
(312) 940-3369 View (312) 940-3369
Photo of Spencer R. Potesta Psychotherapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Spencer R. Potesta Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
In addition to his work utilizing CBT and ERP, Spencer aims to help each client truly understand their symptoms and how to progress.
Spencer is a double board certified psychotherapist, trained in organizational psychology, and author of Principles of Performance and control. He is experienced in treating individuals experiencing complex anxiety. He specializes in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Phobia/Agoraphobia, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. He utilizes treatment approaches such as (I)CBT and ERP. He includes a focus on ERP and offers in-person exposure work for clients experiencing strong levels of anxiety responses. He is co-founder of Midsommer Psychotherapy. Website: MidsommerPsychotherapy.com.
In addition to his work utilizing CBT and ERP, Spencer aims to help each client truly understand their symptoms and how to progress.
Spencer is a double board certified psychotherapist, trained in organizational psychology, and author of Principles of Performance and control. He is experienced in treating individuals experiencing complex anxiety. He specializes in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Phobia/Agoraphobia, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. He utilizes treatment approaches such as (I)CBT and ERP. He includes a focus on ERP and offers in-person exposure work for clients experiencing strong levels of anxiety responses. He is co-founder of Midsommer Psychotherapy. Website: MidsommerPsychotherapy.com.
(312) 634-6684 View (312) 634-6684
Photo of Rachel Spizzirri, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Rachel Spizzirri
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Waitlist for new clients
Together, we will collaborate to create a treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs using a variety of therapeutic techniques (CBT, ACT, ERP).
I am passionate about helping people find balance and peace through therapy. It is my belief that everyone deserves an empathetic therapist that can help them feel empowered to overcome whatever obstacles they may be facing. I am confident that therapy can be an opportunity to strengthen problem-solving skills and take steps towards making meaningful change. I am dedicated to creating a non-judgmental and compassionate therapeutic environment to best help my clients overcome whatever challenge or goal they seek to achieve.
Together, we will collaborate to create a treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs using a variety of therapeutic techniques (CBT, ACT, ERP).
I am passionate about helping people find balance and peace through therapy. It is my belief that everyone deserves an empathetic therapist that can help them feel empowered to overcome whatever obstacles they may be facing. I am confident that therapy can be an opportunity to strengthen problem-solving skills and take steps towards making meaningful change. I am dedicated to creating a non-judgmental and compassionate therapeutic environment to best help my clients overcome whatever challenge or goal they seek to achieve.
(708) 367-6992 View (708) 367-6992
Photo of Rachel Nicholson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Rachel Nicholson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
We do this by: believing in a holistic way of healing, honoring the brain-body connection, and specializing in evidence based, short term therapies such as CBT, ACT, DBT, ERP and Mindfulness.
Hey! I’m Rachel Nicholson a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Psychotherapist, and I could not be more excited to work with you! I know what it feels like to be scared to take the first step; to go through the hard work in order to grow. Because of that, it makes me the therapist I am today. Empathetic, understanding, and compassionate. These qualities are what I bring into our sessions in order to support you in becoming the best version of yourself. I want you to feel comfortable enough to share anything that comes to mind without any fear or judgement–knowing that we are in this together.
We do this by: believing in a holistic way of healing, honoring the brain-body connection, and specializing in evidence based, short term therapies such as CBT, ACT, DBT, ERP and Mindfulness.
Hey! I’m Rachel Nicholson a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Psychotherapist, and I could not be more excited to work with you! I know what it feels like to be scared to take the first step; to go through the hard work in order to grow. Because of that, it makes me the therapist I am today. Empathetic, understanding, and compassionate. These qualities are what I bring into our sessions in order to support you in becoming the best version of yourself. I want you to feel comfortable enough to share anything that comes to mind without any fear or judgement–knowing that we are in this together.
(872) 266-2421 View (872) 266-2421
Photo of Ashley Fargnoli, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashley Fargnoli
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing OCD, we'll use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), tackling your fears together at a pace that feels right for you.
Have you suffered a recent loss or are impacted by painful experiences from your past? Do relentless "what if" thoughts plague your mind, leaving you wondering if OCD is the culprit? Perhaps you've grappled with both, feeling overwhelmed by shame or fear. As a specialist in trauma and OCD, I'm here to provide the support you need. My approach is rooted in collaboration, honoring your strengths and nurturing the connections already within you.
If you are experiencing OCD, we'll use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), tackling your fears together at a pace that feels right for you.
Have you suffered a recent loss or are impacted by painful experiences from your past? Do relentless "what if" thoughts plague your mind, leaving you wondering if OCD is the culprit? Perhaps you've grappled with both, feeling overwhelmed by shame or fear. As a specialist in trauma and OCD, I'm here to provide the support you need. My approach is rooted in collaboration, honoring your strengths and nurturing the connections already within you.
(773) 754-4904 View (773) 754-4904
Photo of Alison Bronson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Alison Bronson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Alison specializes in treating adolescents and adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Habit Reversal Training (HRT), mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
Alison Bronson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about using evidence-based treatments in her therapeutic work with adolescents and adults. Alison has past experience working in private practice, college counseling, and community mental health settings treating a wide range of presentations including anxiety, mood, obsessive compulsive, trauma and other stressor-related disorders.
Alison specializes in treating adolescents and adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Habit Reversal Training (HRT), mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
Alison Bronson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about using evidence-based treatments in her therapeutic work with adolescents and adults. Alison has past experience working in private practice, college counseling, and community mental health settings treating a wide range of presentations including anxiety, mood, obsessive compulsive, trauma and other stressor-related disorders.
(872) 274-2775 View (872) 274-2775
Photo of NOCD- Therapists for OCD, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
NOCD- Therapists for OCD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
(773) 657-2505 View (773) 657-2505
Photo of Head First Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Head First Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Life can be busy, stressful, and overwhelming. Knowing where to get support can be a challenge. At Head First Health we make it easy for you to begin therapy by offering convenient virtual sessions with therapists who truly understand YOU. We support millennial women experiencing anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, eating disorders, trauma, and depression. We specialize in using evidence based therapies such as CBT, ACT, ERP, and Mindfulness, to really target your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to create impactful and lasting change.
Life can be busy, stressful, and overwhelming. Knowing where to get support can be a challenge. At Head First Health we make it easy for you to begin therapy by offering convenient virtual sessions with therapists who truly understand YOU. We support millennial women experiencing anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, eating disorders, trauma, and depression. We specialize in using evidence based therapies such as CBT, ACT, ERP, and Mindfulness, to really target your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to create impactful and lasting change.
(312) 766-5884 View (312) 766-5884
Photo of Xinzhu Yu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Xinzhu Yu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I employ strength-based, systemic, and relational approaches in therapy and utilize an integrative model of psychodynamic, narrative, CBT, ACT, ERP, DBT, IFS, ADHD management, Gottman Method, and trauma-informed care.
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
I employ strength-based, systemic, and relational approaches in therapy and utilize an integrative model of psychodynamic, narrative, CBT, ACT, ERP, DBT, IFS, ADHD management, Gottman Method, and trauma-informed care.
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
(312) 257-3851 View (312) 257-3851
Photo of Samantha Huston, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Samantha Huston
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
For over 14 years I have specialized in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD. I also specialize in Women’s Health and supportive parenting. I focus on supporting and empowering my clients while using evidence-based practices, such as CBT, ERP, and DBT. I use a client-centered approach to provide a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can safely explore and work through feelings, thoughts, and beliefs - conscious or unconscious - which may prevent them from reaching their full potential.
For over 14 years I have specialized in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD. I also specialize in Women’s Health and supportive parenting. I focus on supporting and empowering my clients while using evidence-based practices, such as CBT, ERP, and DBT. I use a client-centered approach to provide a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can safely explore and work through feelings, thoughts, and beliefs - conscious or unconscious - which may prevent them from reaching their full potential.
(773) 299-1801 View (773) 299-1801
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.