Photo of Gray Matters Counseling & Consulting Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30331, GA
Gray Matters Counseling & Consulting Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331
"Getting to the heart of the matter..." We exist to encourage and promote the overall health, well-being and life success of individuals and families - spirit, soul, and body.
"Getting to the heart of the matter..." We exist to encourage and promote the overall health, well-being and life success of individuals and families - spirit, soul, and body.
(770) 574-4826 View (770) 574-4826
Photo of Venus S Thomas, Pre-Licensed Professional in 30331, GA
Venus S Thomas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
Not accepting new clients
"Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives." (Unknown) I have had the privilege of working with individuals across the spectrum in terms of age, gender, ethnicity and presenting challenges. I am particularly passionate about working with teens and adults. Offering a holistic approach by helping you live a more impactful and purpose-driven life. Working with you along the journey is two-fold. I am here to empower my clients to promote and uplift their own well being, and while doing so, to perpetuate healing both individually and across generations.
"Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives." (Unknown) I have had the privilege of working with individuals across the spectrum in terms of age, gender, ethnicity and presenting challenges. I am particularly passionate about working with teens and adults. Offering a holistic approach by helping you live a more impactful and purpose-driven life. Working with you along the journey is two-fold. I am here to empower my clients to promote and uplift their own well being, and while doing so, to perpetuate healing both individually and across generations.
(678) 919-3913 View (678) 919-3913
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.