Photo of Tamara Brown Payne, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30331, GA
Tamara Brown Payne
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CRC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331  (Online Only)
As a holistic therapist and life strategist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential through growth in all aspects of your life. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in life. By applying eclectic therapy approaches and techniques, we will discover long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Philosophy: "It is what it is, but it doesn't have to be. Experience is a lesson and the lesson is a new experience."
As a holistic therapist and life strategist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential through growth in all aspects of your life. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in life. By applying eclectic therapy approaches and techniques, we will discover long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Philosophy: "It is what it is, but it doesn't have to be. Experience is a lesson and the lesson is a new experience."
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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.