Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Merion Station, PA

Photo of Mary Yost, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Yost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Some people have (or suspect they have) diagnoses like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or OCD.
I specialize in evidence-based treatments including Internal Family Systems (IFS Level 1), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Regardless of modality, I generally incorporate neurobiology education into our work so you can better understand what your brain and body are doing and why.
Some people have (or suspect they have) diagnoses like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or OCD.
I specialize in evidence-based treatments including Internal Family Systems (IFS Level 1), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Regardless of modality, I generally incorporate neurobiology education into our work so you can better understand what your brain and body are doing and why.
(484) 759-9329 View (484) 759-9329
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Selman, Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Dr. Jeffrey Selman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
1 Endorsed
Merion Station, PA 19066
Most of the people I work with come to me after trying multiple approaches that haven’t worked—and they’re frustrated that nothing has led to real change. They may be dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, challenging behavior, or burnout, along with difficulties with focus, motivation, and emotional regulation. Some are parents seeking help for their child, while others are students and adults managing increasing academic, work, and life demands. With experience across clinical and school settings, I help them move forward by providing clear direction, practical strategies, and a structured path toward meaningful progress.
Most of the people I work with come to me after trying multiple approaches that haven’t worked—and they’re frustrated that nothing has led to real change. They may be dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, challenging behavior, or burnout, along with difficulties with focus, motivation, and emotional regulation. Some are parents seeking help for their child, while others are students and adults managing increasing academic, work, and life demands. With experience across clinical and school settings, I help them move forward by providing clear direction, practical strategies, and a structured path toward meaningful progress.
(484) 276-1633 View (484) 276-1633
Photo of Amanda Transue-Woolston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II, C-PD, CT
Amanda Transue-Woolston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II, C-PD, CT
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m formally trained in treatment of anxiety/ OCD, sex and relationships, emotional abuse, codependency, and attachment; certified in complex trauma, personality disorders, and grief.
You've spent so much of your life overperforming in relationships, striving to earn love and worthiness. You’ve tried being perfect, doing more, and making sure everyone else is ok even if you're the one who's hurting. You're left anxious, resentful, and hiding your own needs to keep the peace. You may feel like other people's needs or problems are louder than your worth. Starting therapy might feel both hopeful and overwhelming. What if you start prioritizing yourself or saying "no" and your whole world falls apart? You just want to exist as you are, to know that you’re enough, and to receive the same love you offer to others.
I’m formally trained in treatment of anxiety/ OCD, sex and relationships, emotional abuse, codependency, and attachment; certified in complex trauma, personality disorders, and grief.
You've spent so much of your life overperforming in relationships, striving to earn love and worthiness. You’ve tried being perfect, doing more, and making sure everyone else is ok even if you're the one who's hurting. You're left anxious, resentful, and hiding your own needs to keep the peace. You may feel like other people's needs or problems are louder than your worth. Starting therapy might feel both hopeful and overwhelming. What if you start prioritizing yourself or saying "no" and your whole world falls apart? You just want to exist as you are, to know that you’re enough, and to receive the same love you offer to others.
(484) 218-3132 View (484) 218-3132
Photo of Sara Steigman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Sara Steigman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Online Only
Do you feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, OCD, or fear you can’t break on your own?
I use a straightforward, evidence-based approach tailored to each person. My work is rooted in CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), with ACT and DBT integrated as helpful. Together, we’ll identify what’s getting in the way, build effective skills, and face what anxiety has allowed you to avoid.
Do you feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, OCD, or fear you can’t break on your own?
I use a straightforward, evidence-based approach tailored to each person. My work is rooted in CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), with ACT and DBT integrated as helpful. Together, we’ll identify what’s getting in the way, build effective skills, and face what anxiety has allowed you to avoid.
(732) 243-8368 View (732) 243-8368
Photo of Maureen Fiorelli, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Maureen Fiorelli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you been feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed and alone? Do you find that your mind and emotions control you? Are you stuck in repetitive patterns or you ruminate on the same negative thought? I work with people who suffer with these symptoms and I have over 17 years of experience treating depression, anxiety and eating disorders. I have a background in art and have a warm, engaging (rather than silent) style of interacting. My experience includes work at Eating Disorder Centers, Mental Health Assessor for UCSF, Graduate psychology professor, crisis work for Mental Health Association of NYC & supervision of interns.
Have you been feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed and alone? Do you find that your mind and emotions control you? Are you stuck in repetitive patterns or you ruminate on the same negative thought? I work with people who suffer with these symptoms and I have over 17 years of experience treating depression, anxiety and eating disorders. I have a background in art and have a warm, engaging (rather than silent) style of interacting. My experience includes work at Eating Disorder Centers, Mental Health Assessor for UCSF, Graduate psychology professor, crisis work for Mental Health Association of NYC & supervision of interns.
(267) 356-5944 View (267) 356-5944
Photo of Beth Rosenwasser, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BCBA-D
Beth Rosenwasser
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BCBA-D
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Love the life you lead! Reaching out is the 1st step toward achieving personal, professional or relationship goals. Therapy offers private time with support to take a fresh look at your situation, clarify goals and evaluate options. You bring YOU - your strengths and knowledge of your circumstances; I bring a fresh perspective and new skills. With over 20 years of experience in clinical practice and training, program design, and publishing, people I work with tell me I am easy to talk to, warm and non-judgmental. They appreciate my ability to 'keep it real,' helping develop practical solutions in brief or longer-term therapy.
Love the life you lead! Reaching out is the 1st step toward achieving personal, professional or relationship goals. Therapy offers private time with support to take a fresh look at your situation, clarify goals and evaluate options. You bring YOU - your strengths and knowledge of your circumstances; I bring a fresh perspective and new skills. With over 20 years of experience in clinical practice and training, program design, and publishing, people I work with tell me I am easy to talk to, warm and non-judgmental. They appreciate my ability to 'keep it real,' helping develop practical solutions in brief or longer-term therapy.
(484) 334-2963 View (484) 334-2963

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leigh Anne Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leigh Anne Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in OCD as well as anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorder.
Welcome to Oakview Therapy. My goal is to help you achieve goals and find happiness in life. Sometimes, we go through a life changing experience that can make us feel out of control. Other times the stress of life builds slowly and before you know it, it's just too much to bear. By listening and working together, we can find a clearer path to feeling calmer and more in control. If you are trying to cope with stress in various stages of life, whether it is at work or at home, and find that you cannot do it alone, please reach out and set up a free 15 minute consultation. I am only available to see adult individual clients.
I specialize in OCD as well as anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorder.
Welcome to Oakview Therapy. My goal is to help you achieve goals and find happiness in life. Sometimes, we go through a life changing experience that can make us feel out of control. Other times the stress of life builds slowly and before you know it, it's just too much to bear. By listening and working together, we can find a clearer path to feeling calmer and more in control. If you are trying to cope with stress in various stages of life, whether it is at work or at home, and find that you cannot do it alone, please reach out and set up a free 15 minute consultation. I am only available to see adult individual clients.
(609) 566-8236 View (609) 566-8236
Photo of Kevin Caridad - Cognitive Behavior Institute, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philadelphia, PA 19111
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(267) 867-5785 View (267) 867-5785
Photo of Kelly Fallon, Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Kelly Fallon
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include OCD, anxiety disorders, phobias (emetophobia, agoraphobia), anxiety sensitivity and panic, self-esteem, perfectionism, life transitions, relationship dynamics, and stress management.
Quality OCD treatment is crucial. I offer values-driven Exposure and Response Prevention or Inference-Based CBT as options. If you’re stuck in cycles of worry and rumination in your head, or trying to escape your thoughts and emotions, I can help you make sense of this, embrace the joy and pain inherent to life, and spend more time fully in the present.
My specialties include OCD, anxiety disorders, phobias (emetophobia, agoraphobia), anxiety sensitivity and panic, self-esteem, perfectionism, life transitions, relationship dynamics, and stress management.
Quality OCD treatment is crucial. I offer values-driven Exposure and Response Prevention or Inference-Based CBT as options. If you’re stuck in cycles of worry and rumination in your head, or trying to escape your thoughts and emotions, I can help you make sense of this, embrace the joy and pain inherent to life, and spend more time fully in the present.
(401) 375-9541 View (401) 375-9541
Photo of Lindsay McGovern - Lindsay McGovern LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Lindsay McGovern LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Compulsions - mental or physical - start stacking up before the day even begins.
My approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment (ERP, I-CBT, ACT) and a deep understanding of how OCD actually shows up in real life. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and supported. I’m a warm and deeply empathetic therapist, and I prioritize building a strong connection where you feel free to be yourself without judgment.
Compulsions - mental or physical - start stacking up before the day even begins.
My approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment (ERP, I-CBT, ACT) and a deep understanding of how OCD actually shows up in real life. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and supported. I’m a warm and deeply empathetic therapist, and I prioritize building a strong connection where you feel free to be yourself without judgment.
(609) 546-3925 View (609) 546-3925
Photo of Rebekah Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rebekah Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
If you're looking for a partner in your treatment who will meet you where you are and make space for the messy parts, I may be a good fit for you! I lead with understanding and compassion but am not afraid to challenge you when necessary. In our sessions, we release the pressures of "saving face" and can show up with the burdens or wins of that particular day.
If you're looking for a partner in your treatment who will meet you where you are and make space for the messy parts, I may be a good fit for you! I lead with understanding and compassion but am not afraid to challenge you when necessary. In our sessions, we release the pressures of "saving face" and can show up with the burdens or wins of that particular day.
(717) 537-9186 View (717) 537-9186
Photo of Lauren M. Ondrejack, Associate Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LAPC
Lauren M. Ondrejack
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LAPC
4 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
She works with a variety of issues, some of which include anxiety, OCD (EXRP trained), ADHD, relationship issues, teen problems, eating disorders, body image issues, ARFID, & life transitions.
Lauren Ondrejack, MS, NCC, LAPC, is a Masters Level Counselor at Bucks Support Services. Lauren graduated from Villanova University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Lauren completed her Practicum at Banyan Philadelphia’s Eating Disorder Unit at the Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization levels of care. Her internship was completed in a private practice setting in Yardley, PA. Lauren practices under the supervision of Deb Lake, LPC. She’s in pursuit of licensure.
She works with a variety of issues, some of which include anxiety, OCD (EXRP trained), ADHD, relationship issues, teen problems, eating disorders, body image issues, ARFID, & life transitions.
Lauren Ondrejack, MS, NCC, LAPC, is a Masters Level Counselor at Bucks Support Services. Lauren graduated from Villanova University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Lauren completed her Practicum at Banyan Philadelphia’s Eating Disorder Unit at the Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization levels of care. Her internship was completed in a private practice setting in Yardley, PA. Lauren practices under the supervision of Deb Lake, LPC. She’s in pursuit of licensure.
(267) 204-2704 View (267) 204-2704
Sandra L. Duemmler
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
In addition, I work extensively with people with mood and anxiety disorders, such as OCD, social anxiety, PTSD, and generalized anxiety/worry using a combination of techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy.
When you decide to start therapy, one of the most important keys to success is the relationship you form with the therapist. A therapeutic relationship should feel safe and supportive, and you should feel your therapist has empathy and respect. I believe my strengths as a therapist are my ability to quickly form strong, empathic, collaborative relationships and develop an understanding of your unique situation as well as how you view and interact with the world. Most clients find me down-to-earth and very easy to talk with and relate to.
In addition, I work extensively with people with mood and anxiety disorders, such as OCD, social anxiety, PTSD, and generalized anxiety/worry using a combination of techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy.
When you decide to start therapy, one of the most important keys to success is the relationship you form with the therapist. A therapeutic relationship should feel safe and supportive, and you should feel your therapist has empathy and respect. I believe my strengths as a therapist are my ability to quickly form strong, empathic, collaborative relationships and develop an understanding of your unique situation as well as how you view and interact with the world. Most clients find me down-to-earth and very easy to talk with and relate to.
(484) 864-6314 View (484) 864-6314
Photo of Emma Muscari, Psychologist, PhD
Emma Muscari
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My areas of expertise include obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), anxiety disorders, insomnia, sexual health, ADHD, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
In our work together, I take a collaborative approach in tailoring treatment to your individual values and goals. I use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
My areas of expertise include obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), anxiety disorders, insomnia, sexual health, ADHD, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
In our work together, I take a collaborative approach in tailoring treatment to your individual values and goals. I use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
(215) 709-0278 View (215) 709-0278
Photo of Nicole Wheeler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nicole Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I specialize in OCD particularly skin picking/ hair pulling through Habit Reversal, ACT, DBT, COMB and ERP.
Hi! I'm Nikki, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Greater Pittsburgh Area that's been recognized as Marquis Who's Who Honoree Listee. I've been working in human services for 25 years starting with an Alzheimer's unit in a nursing home and intellectual disabilities in group homes to wraparound services with children that have Autism. I gained my education in psychology and counseling and began working with at risk youth in juvenile delinquency settings and now working with transition aged youth. I really enjoy helping young adults find themselves and their path in life with their personal life and professional endeavors.
I specialize in OCD particularly skin picking/ hair pulling through Habit Reversal, ACT, DBT, COMB and ERP.
Hi! I'm Nikki, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Greater Pittsburgh Area that's been recognized as Marquis Who's Who Honoree Listee. I've been working in human services for 25 years starting with an Alzheimer's unit in a nursing home and intellectual disabilities in group homes to wraparound services with children that have Autism. I gained my education in psychology and counseling and began working with at risk youth in juvenile delinquency settings and now working with transition aged youth. I really enjoy helping young adults find themselves and their path in life with their personal life and professional endeavors.
(724) 819-4452 View (724) 819-4452
Photo of Amanda Koniewicz - Premier Wellness Center-Anxiety, OCD, Adhd Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, CAADC
Premier Wellness Center-Anxiety, OCD, Adhd Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, CAADC
1 Endorsed
Media, PA 19063
We specialize in helping clients overcome symptoms of anxiety, OCD, ADHD, perinatal depression, autism spectrum disorder, and trauma.
Do you feel stuck in patterns you can’t seem to break, like overthinking, avoiding, or needing things to feel “just right”? Does your mind feel like it never shuts off and that you're always worried about "what if's"? No matter what you do, you can't stop thinking about all the things that might go wrong. Maybe you're exhausted from trying to control your thoughts, only to feel more out of control, and are ready to make some real changes!
We specialize in helping clients overcome symptoms of anxiety, OCD, ADHD, perinatal depression, autism spectrum disorder, and trauma.
Do you feel stuck in patterns you can’t seem to break, like overthinking, avoiding, or needing things to feel “just right”? Does your mind feel like it never shuts off and that you're always worried about "what if's"? No matter what you do, you can't stop thinking about all the things that might go wrong. Maybe you're exhausted from trying to control your thoughts, only to feel more out of control, and are ready to make some real changes!
(484) 412-6169 View (484) 412-6169
Photo of Tyler Burt, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
Tyler Burt
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
Media, PA 19063
I am a compassionate and goal-oriented Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with 2 years of experience in mental health counseling. I specialize in individual counseling for sport and performance, addiction recovery, and disability counseling. With a background in individual, family, and group counseling, I help children and young adults manage anxiety, daily adversity, and life transitions. I especially connect with clients navigating identity, disability, or resilience-related challenges.
I am a compassionate and goal-oriented Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with 2 years of experience in mental health counseling. I specialize in individual counseling for sport and performance, addiction recovery, and disability counseling. With a background in individual, family, and group counseling, I help children and young adults manage anxiety, daily adversity, and life transitions. I especially connect with clients navigating identity, disability, or resilience-related challenges.
(484) 592-4589 View (484) 592-4589
Photo of Nichelle Wiggins, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nichelle Wiggins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Family/Relationship Conflicts, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Low Self-Esteem.
Are you struggling to live the life you desire? Perhaps you are feeling anxious, depressed, unmotivated, struggling with intrusive thoughts/urges that you are afraid to talk about, experiencing conflict in your relationships, facing a difficult situation or simply want to feel better. Congratulations on taking the first step. Whether you are new or returning to therapy, the process is one of self-reflection and self-discovery that can lead you to not only feeling better but being a better you. Sometimes the path is unclear. I am committed to guiding you along the path of empowerment and enlightenment to find your way.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Family/Relationship Conflicts, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Low Self-Esteem.
Are you struggling to live the life you desire? Perhaps you are feeling anxious, depressed, unmotivated, struggling with intrusive thoughts/urges that you are afraid to talk about, experiencing conflict in your relationships, facing a difficult situation or simply want to feel better. Congratulations on taking the first step. Whether you are new or returning to therapy, the process is one of self-reflection and self-discovery that can lead you to not only feeling better but being a better you. Sometimes the path is unclear. I am committed to guiding you along the path of empowerment and enlightenment to find your way.
(267) 223-0947 View (267) 223-0947
Photo of Marie Papalia, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marie Papalia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
My areas of expertise include Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Eating Disorders.
I have received advanced training in Exposure and Response Prevention Treatment (ERP) for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for Anxiety and Depression. I also believe that learning to cultivate self-compassion in the face of life's difficulties is a vital addition to any of the evidence based approaches I use.
My areas of expertise include Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Eating Disorders.
I have received advanced training in Exposure and Response Prevention Treatment (ERP) for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for Anxiety and Depression. I also believe that learning to cultivate self-compassion in the face of life's difficulties is a vital addition to any of the evidence based approaches I use.
(267) 361-0304 View (267) 361-0304
Photo of Tristan Guarini, Psychologist, PhD
Tristan Guarini
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I am a therapist with advanced training in OCD and anxiety disorders, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and related evidence-based treatments.
I also provide an affirming space for clients exploring gender identity, sexuality, and relationship patterns. My approach is warm, collaborative, and active — we focus on practical skills while honoring the emotional and relational context of your life. Therapy with me is structured but human, grounded in research and delivered with empathy.
I am a therapist with advanced training in OCD and anxiety disorders, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and related evidence-based treatments.
I also provide an affirming space for clients exploring gender identity, sexuality, and relationship patterns. My approach is warm, collaborative, and active — we focus on practical skills while honoring the emotional and relational context of your life. Therapy with me is structured but human, grounded in research and delivered with empathy.
(215) 234-7827 View (215) 234-7827

See more therapy options for Merion Station

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.