Photo of Dr. Sofia Alvarez, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Sofia Alvarez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that meaningful change begins by creating a strong and authentic connection. I work in a collaborative manner with clients to help them grow and heal. I welcome clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. I am a trained generalist, which means I see most presenting concerns. I work with adults & teens presenting with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. I teach healthy coping skills, increase insight, and help resolve difficult feelings and make peace with hardship.
I believe that meaningful change begins by creating a strong and authentic connection. I work in a collaborative manner with clients to help them grow and heal. I welcome clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. I am a trained generalist, which means I see most presenting concerns. I work with adults & teens presenting with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. I teach healthy coping skills, increase insight, and help resolve difficult feelings and make peace with hardship.
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Photo of Rachel Diaz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Rachel Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
If you are feeling lost and out of control, or if you want to learn better ways to manage your emotions and behaviors, I can provide you with the help you need! I work with those suffering from addiction, dual diagnosis, stress-related disorders, eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, life transitions, trauma, grief, and mood disorders.
I am currently accepting new clients, please contact me via EMAIL ONLY. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC). My goal is to provide you with a safe and trusting environment where you can feel fully heard and validated. I will help you learn how to create goals, process emotions, build effective coping skills, and develop the strength necessary to face and defeat your obstacles. I will support you while you create meaning out of the things you once thought you'd never overcome.
If you are feeling lost and out of control, or if you want to learn better ways to manage your emotions and behaviors, I can provide you with the help you need! I work with those suffering from addiction, dual diagnosis, stress-related disorders, eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, life transitions, trauma, grief, and mood disorders.
I am currently accepting new clients, please contact me via EMAIL ONLY. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC). My goal is to provide you with a safe and trusting environment where you can feel fully heard and validated. I will help you learn how to create goals, process emotions, build effective coping skills, and develop the strength necessary to face and defeat your obstacles. I will support you while you create meaning out of the things you once thought you'd never overcome.
(878) 444-2920 View (878) 444-2920
Photo of Natasha Novikova, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Natasha Novikova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or marital/family issues? I have a Masters in clinical social work from University of Pittsburgh and can guide you thru the rough transition to find more comfortable balance in your life. In my career I have worked in a variety of settings, such as crisis counseling, community mental health and adoption counseling. I have treated depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD etc in a many populations including LGBT and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. At this time I have a new private practice and am ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Call today to set up an appointment.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or marital/family issues? I have a Masters in clinical social work from University of Pittsburgh and can guide you thru the rough transition to find more comfortable balance in your life. In my career I have worked in a variety of settings, such as crisis counseling, community mental health and adoption counseling. I have treated depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD etc in a many populations including LGBT and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. At this time I have a new private practice and am ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Call today to set up an appointment.
(412) 453-4104 View (412) 453-4104
Photo of Jannette Travali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jannette Travali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
(724) 320-1816 View (724) 320-1816
Photo of Rebecca Pierce, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Rebecca Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201  (Online Only)
I am one of those therapists who genuinely loves their work. Getting to understand my clients and the hurdles they face is a privilege that I take seriously. If you are struggling to form and maintain healthy intimate relationships, overcome trauma, to coexist with and even manage anxiety and depression, to gain new approaches to coping with obsessive compulsive symptoms... well, these are just a few of the issues that we can work on together! We can navigate this journey as a team, collaborate on setting realistic goals, and then you can define what "progress" would look like in your eyes.
I am one of those therapists who genuinely loves their work. Getting to understand my clients and the hurdles they face is a privilege that I take seriously. If you are struggling to form and maintain healthy intimate relationships, overcome trauma, to coexist with and even manage anxiety and depression, to gain new approaches to coping with obsessive compulsive symptoms... well, these are just a few of the issues that we can work on together! We can navigate this journey as a team, collaborate on setting realistic goals, and then you can define what "progress" would look like in your eyes.
(484) 229-5139 View (484) 229-5139
Photo of Angela Anderson, Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Angela Anderson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Angela, and I have been working in a private practice setting now for 5 years, and prior was in a community mental health setting for 3 years. I have extensive experience working with all traumas across the lifespan (including veterans), as well as co-occuring / substance abuse disorders and gambling disorders. I also have helped many with anxiety and OCD over come their battles with specific techniques i've been trained in! If you're ready to start the process, please reach out! I look forward to working with you!
Hello! My name is Angela, and I have been working in a private practice setting now for 5 years, and prior was in a community mental health setting for 3 years. I have extensive experience working with all traumas across the lifespan (including veterans), as well as co-occuring / substance abuse disorders and gambling disorders. I also have helped many with anxiety and OCD over come their battles with specific techniques i've been trained in! If you're ready to start the process, please reach out! I look forward to working with you!
(484) 263-8245 View (484) 263-8245
Photo of Matthew M Sniscak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Matthew M Sniscak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt as though it was hard to ask for help, whether it was with something small that happens in life, or perhaps when more complicated situations arise? What about when those distressing thoughts just “pop” into your mind, and the uncomfortable feelings occur? It can be very uncomfortable, and even exhausting, to try to cope with those thoughts and feelings. Maybe you’ve fallen into some habits that you would like to talk about and understand better, or even change but are unsure about how to start. Or maybe you’re going through a significant loss or a change. Do you feel like you just aren’t yourself these days?
Have you ever felt as though it was hard to ask for help, whether it was with something small that happens in life, or perhaps when more complicated situations arise? What about when those distressing thoughts just “pop” into your mind, and the uncomfortable feelings occur? It can be very uncomfortable, and even exhausting, to try to cope with those thoughts and feelings. Maybe you’ve fallen into some habits that you would like to talk about and understand better, or even change but are unsure about how to start. Or maybe you’re going through a significant loss or a change. Do you feel like you just aren’t yourself these days?
(908) 824-5452 View (908) 824-5452
Photo of Olivia Murrin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Olivia Murrin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15215  (Online Only)
As I feel called to compassionately serve others through therapy, I am eager to hear their story and spend time processing what that means to them. Everyone has their own unique situation and journey they have been on, and with that we can collaboratively find coping skills, practical goals, and help make sense of what they have been going through. Although being vulnerable in therapy may not always be easy, we can work at a comfortable pace in hopes of healing. Anyone who has the willingness and desire can benefit from therapy. It is my hope they may learn to increase self-awareness to live a better version of themselves.
As I feel called to compassionately serve others through therapy, I am eager to hear their story and spend time processing what that means to them. Everyone has their own unique situation and journey they have been on, and with that we can collaboratively find coping skills, practical goals, and help make sense of what they have been going through. Although being vulnerable in therapy may not always be easy, we can work at a comfortable pace in hopes of healing. Anyone who has the willingness and desire can benefit from therapy. It is my hope they may learn to increase self-awareness to live a better version of themselves.
(717) 931-6606 View (717) 931-6606
Photo of Caitlin Senk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Caitlin Senk
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is an integrative one that focuses on a person-centered approach. I view the therapeutic relationship as a significant element of change and will collaborate with you in a respectful, nonjudgmental, empathetic, and supportive manner. I believe that our past and current experiences effect our lives in impactful ways and influence our relationship with ourselves and those around us. I aim to empower you by uncovering your strengths and resilience on which we will build a more confident and vivid individual. I am here to help you find your place, feel connected, and reclaim control of your mind and body.
My approach to therapy is an integrative one that focuses on a person-centered approach. I view the therapeutic relationship as a significant element of change and will collaborate with you in a respectful, nonjudgmental, empathetic, and supportive manner. I believe that our past and current experiences effect our lives in impactful ways and influence our relationship with ourselves and those around us. I aim to empower you by uncovering your strengths and resilience on which we will build a more confident and vivid individual. I am here to help you find your place, feel connected, and reclaim control of your mind and body.
(412) 981-2059 View (412) 981-2059
Photo of Cedar Avenue Psychotherapy, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Cedar Avenue Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
We believe that psychological well-being and healing come from our ability to foster awareness, understanding, and acceptance of our experience of life as a whole. Talking with a therapist can help facilitate this kind of personal growth.
We believe that psychological well-being and healing come from our ability to foster awareness, understanding, and acceptance of our experience of life as a whole. Talking with a therapist can help facilitate this kind of personal growth.
(412) 515-3728 View (412) 515-3728
Photo of Ashley Mudrinich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Ashley Mudrinich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
(412) 534-5661 View (412) 534-5661
Photo of Stephanie Becker Wudarski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Stephanie Becker Wudarski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
Has finding a therapist been on your to-do list for days, weeks, months or years? Do you feel exhausted or overwhelmed by the idea of making an appointment? If so, I imagine you are sick and tired of the narrative that you are just not motivated enough to change. The one thing you are sure of is your desire to feel better, even if what that looks like is still unclear. Maybe you want to test drive different coping strategies and need a co-pilot to feel safe enough to jump in the drivers seat - or maybe you want someone to listen while you sit in park and express what it's like to feel stuck and misunderstood.
Has finding a therapist been on your to-do list for days, weeks, months or years? Do you feel exhausted or overwhelmed by the idea of making an appointment? If so, I imagine you are sick and tired of the narrative that you are just not motivated enough to change. The one thing you are sure of is your desire to feel better, even if what that looks like is still unclear. Maybe you want to test drive different coping strategies and need a co-pilot to feel safe enough to jump in the drivers seat - or maybe you want someone to listen while you sit in park and express what it's like to feel stuck and misunderstood.
(412) 435-1832 View (412) 435-1832
Photo of Diane L Winter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Diane L Winter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, BC-TMH, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
**CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** **Now an out of state licensed registered telehealth professional in the state of Florida.** Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or pandemic related stress? Have you been meaning to make an appointment with a therapist for a while, but just haven't done it yet? I understand.... let's talk about it.
**CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** **Now an out of state licensed registered telehealth professional in the state of Florida.** Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or pandemic related stress? Have you been meaning to make an appointment with a therapist for a while, but just haven't done it yet? I understand.... let's talk about it.
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Photo of Grace Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Grace Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
(724) 906-4319 View (724) 906-4319
Photo of Christina Calkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Christina Calkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
A patient presents with concerns regarding impulsive decision-making and wanting to change relationship patterns. She was recently diagnosed with postpartum after giving birth 30 days prior. She is currently in a relationship with the child's father and reports being unhappy with his parenting skills. She wants to go out on her own but is afraid he will separate her from the child. In therapy, she has clarified that she does not want to share with him at the child's young age.
A patient presents with concerns regarding impulsive decision-making and wanting to change relationship patterns. She was recently diagnosed with postpartum after giving birth 30 days prior. She is currently in a relationship with the child's father and reports being unhappy with his parenting skills. She wants to go out on her own but is afraid he will separate her from the child. In therapy, she has clarified that she does not want to share with him at the child's young age.
(412) 866-1444 View (412) 866-1444
Photo of Amanda E Zeiders in Pittsburgh, PA
Amanda E Zeiders
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
I see one of the most important roles as a therapist to be putting in the work to earn someone’s trust and walking beside them as an accomplice on their path towards growth. I don’t believe that people are “broken” or “need to be fixed”, but rather that somewhere within every person lies the capacity to generate change. I believe this change begins by finding someone trustworthy to support them through this process. And—that being kinder and gentler towards ourselves goes a long way to building the foundation for this change to occur.
I see one of the most important roles as a therapist to be putting in the work to earn someone’s trust and walking beside them as an accomplice on their path towards growth. I don’t believe that people are “broken” or “need to be fixed”, but rather that somewhere within every person lies the capacity to generate change. I believe this change begins by finding someone trustworthy to support them through this process. And—that being kinder and gentler towards ourselves goes a long way to building the foundation for this change to occur.
(412) 754-7239 View (412) 754-7239
Photo of Jen Jasiekiewicz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jen Jasiekiewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I work with a great variety of individuals from all walks of life. I hope to help you build the confidence and skills you need to manage the stressors in your world. Together we can work on reinforcing your strengths, and I can help you to learn new skills to be able to manage your troubles. Areas of clinical focus include (but are not limited to) Trauma, Anxiety, Panic, Adjustment to College or Work, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, LGBTQIA+ concerns, Codependency, and Phase of Life issues. I work primarily with adults and also have specific training in trauma treatment (CCTP certification).
I work with a great variety of individuals from all walks of life. I hope to help you build the confidence and skills you need to manage the stressors in your world. Together we can work on reinforcing your strengths, and I can help you to learn new skills to be able to manage your troubles. Areas of clinical focus include (but are not limited to) Trauma, Anxiety, Panic, Adjustment to College or Work, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, LGBTQIA+ concerns, Codependency, and Phase of Life issues. I work primarily with adults and also have specific training in trauma treatment (CCTP certification).
(412) 308-5505 View (412) 308-5505
Photo of Todd Schachter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Todd Schachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
(878) 645-3173 View (878) 645-3173
Photo of Kindbridge Behavioral Health, Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Kindbridge Behavioral Health
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
Experience working in multiple settings, including private practice and community healthcare. I look to help clients struggling with gambling addiction, drug and alcohol addiction, and other mental health disorders.
Experience working in multiple settings, including private practice and community healthcare. I look to help clients struggling with gambling addiction, drug and alcohol addiction, and other mental health disorders.
(702) 766-9125 View (702) 766-9125
Photo of Jodi Lynn Buzzell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jodi Lynn Buzzell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Life has its challenges can be overwhelming and stressful. Individuals, families and couples can be effected by these issues . If you are feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from emotional or substance uses issues, experiencing family or relationship conflicts, let my 12 years of experience working with children, adults, families and couples, assist. My approach for families and couples, is exploring patterns in relationship dynamics, providing insight and improving communication . I have worked with adults and children to develop coping skills to manage emotional issues. Therapy is client centered, strength based and the goal is to empower and reach full potential.
Life has its challenges can be overwhelming and stressful. Individuals, families and couples can be effected by these issues . If you are feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from emotional or substance uses issues, experiencing family or relationship conflicts, let my 12 years of experience working with children, adults, families and couples, assist. My approach for families and couples, is exploring patterns in relationship dynamics, providing insight and improving communication . I have worked with adults and children to develop coping skills to manage emotional issues. Therapy is client centered, strength based and the goal is to empower and reach full potential.
(724) 216-6773 View (724) 216-6773
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.