Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists in Downers Grove, IL

Allison Niebes-Davis
Psychologist, PhD
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Therapy is a unique process, one that aims to guide you through challenges and roadblocks, helping you move towards a healthier and more meaningful life. My goal is to create a space where growth is safe and cultivated. Using an evidence-based approach, I work to help you gain awareness of your emotional experience, working to understand the way you experience and interact with the world. I help you explore parts of yourself you may not be completely comfortable with, learning to tolerate the discomfort that surfaces during this process. I challenge clients to try something different, encouraging a more intentional approach.
Therapy is a unique process, one that aims to guide you through challenges and roadblocks, helping you move towards a healthier and more meaningful life. My goal is to create a space where growth is safe and cultivated. Using an evidence-based approach, I work to help you gain awareness of your emotional experience, working to understand the way you experience and interact with the world. I help you explore parts of yourself you may not be completely comfortable with, learning to tolerate the discomfort that surfaces during this process. I challenge clients to try something different, encouraging a more intentional approach.
(630) 796-6794 View (630) 796-6794
Melissa Tucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I use evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), to help clients develop effective coping skills, reconnect with what matters most, and build lives filled with hope, dignity, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.
When you begin working with me, you can expect a compassionate and structured process. We’ll start by exploring your current experiences and identifying the goals you’d like to achieve through therapy. I like to use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) because it emphasizes psychological flexibility, values, and committed action.
I use evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), to help clients develop effective coping skills, reconnect with what matters most, and build lives filled with hope, dignity, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.
When you begin working with me, you can expect a compassionate and structured process. We’ll start by exploring your current experiences and identifying the goals you’d like to achieve through therapy. I like to use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) because it emphasizes psychological flexibility, values, and committed action.
(630) 491-4365 View (630) 491-4365
Dana Donahue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The journey of motherhood can stir up many unexpected feelings and challenges for women and their partners. Starting from preconception all the way to the empty nest experience, it is not uncommon to struggle with anxious thoughts, strong emotions, a lost sense of self or disconnection in our personal relationships. If you want to enjoy your pregnancy or motherhood experience, learn different ways to cope with the heavy mental load, communicate better with your partner or process feelings of loss when this journey does not go as expected, please know that you are not alone and I can help.
The journey of motherhood can stir up many unexpected feelings and challenges for women and their partners. Starting from preconception all the way to the empty nest experience, it is not uncommon to struggle with anxious thoughts, strong emotions, a lost sense of self or disconnection in our personal relationships. If you want to enjoy your pregnancy or motherhood experience, learn different ways to cope with the heavy mental load, communicate better with your partner or process feelings of loss when this journey does not go as expected, please know that you are not alone and I can help.
(630) 445-1831 View (630) 445-1831
Janet Lovett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I have a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP).
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist passionate about helping people uncover the true causes behind their emotional struggles. My goal is to support clients in identifying and addressing the root issues of their emotional and psychological challenges. Using a client-centered, strengths-based approach, I empower individuals to develop effective coping strategies and create healthier, more intentional lives—one step at a time. I strongly believe in the importance of active listening, empathy, and collaboration for building trust and creating a supportive environment where clients feel safe to explore and grow.
I have a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP).
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist passionate about helping people uncover the true causes behind their emotional struggles. My goal is to support clients in identifying and addressing the root issues of their emotional and psychological challenges. Using a client-centered, strengths-based approach, I empower individuals to develop effective coping strategies and create healthier, more intentional lives—one step at a time. I strongly believe in the importance of active listening, empathy, and collaboration for building trust and creating a supportive environment where clients feel safe to explore and grow.
(630) 593-1695 View (630) 593-1695
Zarmeen Ahmed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I utilize evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), ensuring that therapy is tailored, relevant, and effective for you.
Are you stuck in a loop of unwanted thoughts, constant worry, or panic that feels like it comes out of nowhere? I specialize in helping people who feel consumed by fear- with extensive experience in the field providing treatment for anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), panic disorder, phobias, and depression. Together, we can unlock your potential and work through it—one step at a time.
I utilize evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), ensuring that therapy is tailored, relevant, and effective for you.
Are you stuck in a loop of unwanted thoughts, constant worry, or panic that feels like it comes out of nowhere? I specialize in helping people who feel consumed by fear- with extensive experience in the field providing treatment for anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), panic disorder, phobias, and depression. Together, we can unlock your potential and work through it—one step at a time.
(708) 847-0238 View (708) 847-0238
Rebecca E Bacon Ehlers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My practice is always rooted in the belief that we are each meant to thrive in our own way, and the purpose of therapy is to liberate you from the obstacles that are getting in the way of that. We could be a great fit if you're looking to improve the quality of your relationships, including relationships with difficult loved ones, interested in finding more helpful ways of coping with stress, and/or want to free yourself of the burden of painful past experiences.
My practice is always rooted in the belief that we are each meant to thrive in our own way, and the purpose of therapy is to liberate you from the obstacles that are getting in the way of that. We could be a great fit if you're looking to improve the quality of your relationships, including relationships with difficult loved ones, interested in finding more helpful ways of coping with stress, and/or want to free yourself of the burden of painful past experiences.
(630) 349-4963 View (630) 349-4963
Emily Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can cause you to feel alone in your journey. Life can be stressful, overwhelming and difficult at time and it takes a lot of courage and strength to take the initial steps to seek help. As a licensed social worker, I would like to welcome the opportunity to work with you in making the changes. I will provide insight,guidance, a safe environment where you can feel empowered to find clarity and self-awareness to make the needed and wanted changes.
Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can cause you to feel alone in your journey. Life can be stressful, overwhelming and difficult at time and it takes a lot of courage and strength to take the initial steps to seek help. As a licensed social worker, I would like to welcome the opportunity to work with you in making the changes. I will provide insight,guidance, a safe environment where you can feel empowered to find clarity and self-awareness to make the needed and wanted changes.
(630) 765-5648 View (630) 765-5648
Courtney Billman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-C
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Waitlist for new clients
You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself in ways that are hard to explain. Maybe your mind rarely slows down, your body feels tense or on edge, or you’re stuck in patterns of perfectionism or disordered eating that once helped you cope but now feel exhausting. You don’t have to carry this alone. Therapy can be a steady, supportive space where we slow down together, gently process trauma and stress, and make sense of what you’ve been carrying. Little by little, you may begin to feel more settled in your body, and more connected to who you are underneath it all.
You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself in ways that are hard to explain. Maybe your mind rarely slows down, your body feels tense or on edge, or you’re stuck in patterns of perfectionism or disordered eating that once helped you cope but now feel exhausting. You don’t have to carry this alone. Therapy can be a steady, supportive space where we slow down together, gently process trauma and stress, and make sense of what you’ve been carrying. Little by little, you may begin to feel more settled in your body, and more connected to who you are underneath it all.
(630) 457-1309 View (630) 457-1309
Dr. Rebecca Patkunas (Hans)
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I use evidence-based treatments including CBT, CPT, Prolonged Exposure, and ERP.
Many people who find their way to my practice are carrying experiences that still feel unresolved. They may notice feeling on edge, disconnected, or caught in patterns that no longer feel helpful. If that resonates, you’re not alone. I offer a supportive, compassionate space to begin making sense of what happened, build practical tools, and feel more grounded in your daily life. Therapy with me is both safe and forward-moving. We go at a thoughtful pace while also creating clear direction. Together, we gently untangle the past, strengthen coping skills, and build a deeper sense of confidence and stability
I use evidence-based treatments including CBT, CPT, Prolonged Exposure, and ERP.
Many people who find their way to my practice are carrying experiences that still feel unresolved. They may notice feeling on edge, disconnected, or caught in patterns that no longer feel helpful. If that resonates, you’re not alone. I offer a supportive, compassionate space to begin making sense of what happened, build practical tools, and feel more grounded in your daily life. Therapy with me is both safe and forward-moving. We go at a thoughtful pace while also creating clear direction. Together, we gently untangle the past, strengthen coping skills, and build a deeper sense of confidence and stability
(630) 647-8095 View (630) 647-8095
Kathryn Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
My therapeutic approach integrates DBT, ERP, and IFS with a Person-Centered, Strength-Based, and Trauma-Focused framework.
Kathryn Berry, MSW, LCSW, is an Illinois-based clinical social worker with multiple years of experience in her field. Kathryn completed both her undergraduate and graduate studies at Loyola University Chicago, receiving her master’s degree in social work (MSW) in 2014. Kathryn specializes in the use of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a treatment that can help improve the lives of anyone experiencing overwhelming emotions. She also has expertise in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and the care of LGBTQ+ folks.
My therapeutic approach integrates DBT, ERP, and IFS with a Person-Centered, Strength-Based, and Trauma-Focused framework.
Kathryn Berry, MSW, LCSW, is an Illinois-based clinical social worker with multiple years of experience in her field. Kathryn completed both her undergraduate and graduate studies at Loyola University Chicago, receiving her master’s degree in social work (MSW) in 2014. Kathryn specializes in the use of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a treatment that can help improve the lives of anyone experiencing overwhelming emotions. She also has expertise in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and the care of LGBTQ+ folks.
(630) 716-9311 View (630) 716-9311
Mahin Khader
Counselor, MS, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I work from a person-centered framework while including principles from other treatment modalities including DBT, ACT, ERP, the Gottman Method & CBT.
Taking the first step towards therapy can be difficult but also necessary. I am here to make that process a little bit easier & more comfortable. I recognize that each individual is unique and it's important to meet each client where they are on their journey of healing, by recognizing & understanding their reasons for coming to therapy. Whether it be difficulties with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, body image concerns, eating disorders, trauma, grief, life transitions, etc. I’m here to help support you as you navigate these concerns. My hope is that you leave therapy with the growth and tools that you are looking for.
I work from a person-centered framework while including principles from other treatment modalities including DBT, ACT, ERP, the Gottman Method & CBT.
Taking the first step towards therapy can be difficult but also necessary. I am here to make that process a little bit easier & more comfortable. I recognize that each individual is unique and it's important to meet each client where they are on their journey of healing, by recognizing & understanding their reasons for coming to therapy. Whether it be difficulties with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, body image concerns, eating disorders, trauma, grief, life transitions, etc. I’m here to help support you as you navigate these concerns. My hope is that you leave therapy with the growth and tools that you are looking for.
(630) 791-5471 View (630) 791-5471
Ana Warkocki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Hi, I'm Ana, and I understand that it’s important to make the right choice in who you choose to start your healing journey with. My hope is that this gives you an idea of what working with me might be like. I work primarily with anxiety, panic, depression, relationship issues, burnout, impostor syndrome, transition into parenthood, and other big life transitions. I have a special interest in working on setting boundaries in all types of relationships, identifying and breaking dysfunctional generational patterns, navigating parent-child relationships of all ages, and dismantling perfectionist tendencies.
Hi, I'm Ana, and I understand that it’s important to make the right choice in who you choose to start your healing journey with. My hope is that this gives you an idea of what working with me might be like. I work primarily with anxiety, panic, depression, relationship issues, burnout, impostor syndrome, transition into parenthood, and other big life transitions. I have a special interest in working on setting boundaries in all types of relationships, identifying and breaking dysfunctional generational patterns, navigating parent-child relationships of all ages, and dismantling perfectionist tendencies.
(331) 259-8459 View (331) 259-8459
Abigail Lynch
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, MS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
100%Virtual appointments available for residents of IL and WI. I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and more. The treatment approaches I utilize are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Activation, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Exposure Response Prevention. While all of the approaches I use are empirically validated for the treatment of Anxiety disorders, I also adapt treatment to meet all clients where they are at. Your goals are my goals and it is possible to experience relief from the symptoms that are keeping you from what you value most in life.
100%Virtual appointments available for residents of IL and WI. I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and more. The treatment approaches I utilize are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Activation, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Exposure Response Prevention. While all of the approaches I use are empirically validated for the treatment of Anxiety disorders, I also adapt treatment to meet all clients where they are at. Your goals are my goals and it is possible to experience relief from the symptoms that are keeping you from what you value most in life.
(872) 201-3249 View (872) 201-3249
Lora Dudek
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Online Only
I specialize in treating adolescents (16+) and adults with OCD and anxiety using ERP, CBT, and ACT, while integrating mindfulness and self-compassion because recovery isn't just about facing fear.
OCD and anxiety have a way of making your world feel smaller than it really is. Maybe you've spent hours replaying conversations, checking "just one more time," avoiding situations that feel overwhelming, searching for reassurance online, or wondering why your brain won't let go of thoughts that don't reflect who you are. Whether it's OCD, panic, emetophobia, social anxiety, or another anxiety disorder, fear has a way of convincing you that relief is just one more answer or one more avoided situation away. Unfortunately, that relief never lasts. The good news is that recovery is possible with the right approach.
I specialize in treating adolescents (16+) and adults with OCD and anxiety using ERP, CBT, and ACT, while integrating mindfulness and self-compassion because recovery isn't just about facing fear.
OCD and anxiety have a way of making your world feel smaller than it really is. Maybe you've spent hours replaying conversations, checking "just one more time," avoiding situations that feel overwhelming, searching for reassurance online, or wondering why your brain won't let go of thoughts that don't reflect who you are. Whether it's OCD, panic, emetophobia, social anxiety, or another anxiety disorder, fear has a way of convincing you that relief is just one more answer or one more avoided situation away. Unfortunately, that relief never lasts. The good news is that recovery is possible with the right approach.
(331) 209-6507 View (331) 209-6507
Dina Scolan-Malone
Counselor, MS, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Using evidence-based treatments including CBT, ERP, ACT, and I-CBT, we’ll work together to identify the thoughts and behaviors keeping anxiety going and gradually face the things you’ve been avoiding.
With 25+ years of experience across all levels of care and advanced training through the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF), I offer specialty treatment for OCD and anxiety using evidence-based approaches like ERP. Treatment is tailored to your individual needs and goals, with flexible or intensive sessions available to help you make progress more quickly.
Using evidence-based treatments including CBT, ERP, ACT, and I-CBT, we’ll work together to identify the thoughts and behaviors keeping anxiety going and gradually face the things you’ve been avoiding.
With 25+ years of experience across all levels of care and advanced training through the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF), I offer specialty treatment for OCD and anxiety using evidence-based approaches like ERP. Treatment is tailored to your individual needs and goals, with flexible or intensive sessions available to help you make progress more quickly.
(630) 740-7937 View (630) 740-7937
Liz Vohasek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
4 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Reaching out to a therapist for help can be scary. As someone who has been on both sides of the couch, I understand firsthand how overwhelming the process can be. I want you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported through your mental health journey! I incorporate compassion, empathy, humor, and understanding into every session. I also have a therapy bunny, named Benny, who loves to jump into the laps of clients and beg for attention. I want you to look forward to your sessions, and I am ready to create a therapeutic bond with you.
Reaching out to a therapist for help can be scary. As someone who has been on both sides of the couch, I understand firsthand how overwhelming the process can be. I want you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported through your mental health journey! I incorporate compassion, empathy, humor, and understanding into every session. I also have a therapy bunny, named Benny, who loves to jump into the laps of clients and beg for attention. I want you to look forward to your sessions, and I am ready to create a therapeutic bond with you.
(312) 847-3810 View (312) 847-3810
Kristen Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I work with individuals and couples that are ready to prioritize the work of therapy so they can be more self-aware, move through their days with more ease, and have more functional relationships. Maybe you’ve seen therapists in the past, and now find yourself seeking more from therapy than someone who listens and validates. I strive to offer concrete takeaways from our sessions.
I work with individuals and couples that are ready to prioritize the work of therapy so they can be more self-aware, move through their days with more ease, and have more functional relationships. Maybe you’ve seen therapists in the past, and now find yourself seeking more from therapy than someone who listens and validates. I strive to offer concrete takeaways from our sessions.
(708) 773-5681 View (708) 773-5681
Jordan Lorenz
Counselor, LCPC, MA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You deserve to experience joy, laughter, and freedom from fear. At times, people encounter overwhelming, distressing thoughts that bring anxiety and panic. These feelings can be paralyzing, making you feel as though you're losing control over your mind. Whether you're dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder, specific phobias, or intense anxiety and panic, I am here to guide you through the journey of facing these fears and reclaiming your life.
You deserve to experience joy, laughter, and freedom from fear. At times, people encounter overwhelming, distressing thoughts that bring anxiety and panic. These feelings can be paralyzing, making you feel as though you're losing control over your mind. Whether you're dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder, specific phobias, or intense anxiety and panic, I am here to guide you through the journey of facing these fears and reclaiming your life.
(708) 726-8721 View (708) 726-8721
LifeStance Health
Counselor, LCPC
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(331) 267-5445 View (331) 267-5445
Kristen Hall
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I focus on building a therapeutic relationship while using CBT, ACT, DBT, and ERP to maximize the benefits of therapy.
I provide therapy for children, adolescents, and adults including those struggling with depression or other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, maintaining healthy relationships, and behavioral concerns.
I focus on building a therapeutic relationship while using CBT, ACT, DBT, and ERP to maximize the benefits of therapy.
I provide therapy for children, adolescents, and adults including those struggling with depression or other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, maintaining healthy relationships, and behavioral concerns.
(708) 394-7490 View (708) 394-7490

See more therapy options for Downers Grove

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.