Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists in Potomac West, Alexandria, VA
I am trained and certified in providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), however, I have experience using a variety of treatment modalities, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention therapy ( ERP), Emotion-Focused Family Therapy, and modified Family-Based Therapy.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, and eating disorders, Katie enjoys helping her clients to identify maladaptive thought patterns, understand the origins and functions of various behaviors, and increase their confidence in coping with distress and overall self-esteem.
When treating eating disorders specifically, I employ Family Based Therapy (FBT) , Emotion- Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E) in order to help families or loved ones work together to address symptoms of Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, and Binge Eating Disorder.
I am trained and certified in providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), however, I have experience using a variety of treatment modalities, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention therapy ( ERP), Emotion-Focused Family Therapy, and modified Family-Based Therapy.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, and eating disorders, Katie enjoys helping her clients to identify maladaptive thought patterns, understand the origins and functions of various behaviors, and increase their confidence in coping with distress and overall self-esteem.
When treating eating disorders specifically, I employ Family Based Therapy (FBT) , Emotion- Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E) in order to help families or loved ones work together to address symptoms of Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, and Binge Eating Disorder.
I draw from evidence-based therapies including Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), Trauma Focused-CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic interventions, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
You may be here because your child is struggling, your teen feels overwhelmed, or perhaps you've spent years carrying the weight of experiences that still impact you today. Whatever the reason, I want you to know that healing, growth, and meaningful changes are possible.
I specialize in working with children, tweens, teens, and adults whose current challenges are often rooted in earlier life experiences. Whether you're navigating autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, or you just feel stuck, I provide a supportive, affirming space where you can feel understood, valued, and empowered.
I draw from evidence-based therapies including Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), Trauma Focused-CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic interventions, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
You may be here because your child is struggling, your teen feels overwhelmed, or perhaps you've spent years carrying the weight of experiences that still impact you today. Whatever the reason, I want you to know that healing, growth, and meaningful changes are possible.
I specialize in working with children, tweens, teens, and adults whose current challenges are often rooted in earlier life experiences. Whether you're navigating autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, or you just feel stuck, I provide a supportive, affirming space where you can feel understood, valued, and empowered.
Thank you for visiting my profile! My practice is now dedicated exclusively to EMDR Intensives for adults in Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC. EMDR Intensives are an alternative to traditional weekly therapy, offering extended, focused sessions over one or more days instead of 50-minute weekly appointments. This immersive approach reduces the stop-and-start nature of therapy, allowing for deeper processing and meaningful progress in a shorter period of time. Each intensive is personalized to your goals, history, and unique needs.
Thank you for visiting my profile! My practice is now dedicated exclusively to EMDR Intensives for adults in Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC. EMDR Intensives are an alternative to traditional weekly therapy, offering extended, focused sessions over one or more days instead of 50-minute weekly appointments. This immersive approach reduces the stop-and-start nature of therapy, allowing for deeper processing and meaningful progress in a shorter period of time. Each intensive is personalized to your goals, history, and unique needs.
If you are struggling with painful emotions, interpersonal problems, substance use challenges, or difficult life transitions, I am here to help. You will find that I work hard to understand you and to help you better understand yourself and your relationships. I believe that every person has an inner potential for healthy growth and development, and my role as a counselor is to facilitate that growth. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to share and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and challenges. I see clients by telehealth throughout Virginia.
If you are struggling with painful emotions, interpersonal problems, substance use challenges, or difficult life transitions, I am here to help. You will find that I work hard to understand you and to help you better understand yourself and your relationships. I believe that every person has an inner potential for healthy growth and development, and my role as a counselor is to facilitate that growth. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to share and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and challenges. I see clients by telehealth throughout Virginia.
Don't miss out on having the life you really want. Stop just surviving or slugging through, hoping that one day you get around to feeling good. Fast-forward to your future of having relationship happiness, career success, well-being, wealth, inner peace, etc.. We don’t just help you manage anxiety, depression, and stress, we empower you to build lasting happiness. Yes, I'm saying we can support you in getting the amazing life you deserve. We haven't met yet, but you're worth it.
Don't miss out on having the life you really want. Stop just surviving or slugging through, hoping that one day you get around to feeling good. Fast-forward to your future of having relationship happiness, career success, well-being, wealth, inner peace, etc.. We don’t just help you manage anxiety, depression, and stress, we empower you to build lasting happiness. Yes, I'm saying we can support you in getting the amazing life you deserve. We haven't met yet, but you're worth it.
Expand Psychology, formerly The Center for Cognitive Therapy and Assessment (CCTA), was founded in 2005 by Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Katie O’Meara, Psy.D., with the mission of providing accessible, compassionate, and evidence-based care to the Northern Virginia community. Expand Psychology is dedicated to offering warm, person-centered therapy that addresses each individual’s unique needs. Over the years, Expand Psychology has grown to serve clients of all ages, now offering comprehensive treatment options in both Falls Church and Alexandria, Virginia. We are proud to be a trusted resource for mental health care in the region.
Expand Psychology, formerly The Center for Cognitive Therapy and Assessment (CCTA), was founded in 2005 by Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Katie O’Meara, Psy.D., with the mission of providing accessible, compassionate, and evidence-based care to the Northern Virginia community. Expand Psychology is dedicated to offering warm, person-centered therapy that addresses each individual’s unique needs. Over the years, Expand Psychology has grown to serve clients of all ages, now offering comprehensive treatment options in both Falls Church and Alexandria, Virginia. We are proud to be a trusted resource for mental health care in the region.
This is a difficult time in the world. We all need support and a safe space to be heard and to discover new tools and skills to move forward in a more wholistic way. I work in collaboration with clients, honoring that we each have the resources within us to move forward with intention and self compassion.
This is a difficult time in the world. We all need support and a safe space to be heard and to discover new tools and skills to move forward in a more wholistic way. I work in collaboration with clients, honoring that we each have the resources within us to move forward with intention and self compassion.
Are you wanting someone to speak with about the struggles you’ve been facing? I believe that one of the most important components to therapy is the client-counselor relationship. I aim to foster trusting relationships with all my clients so that they feel comfortable, safe, and supported in sharing any and all aspects of life. I have experience working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship issues. In working with my clients I utilize a Health at Every Size (HAES) approach and employ All Foods Fit and Intuitive Eating philosophies.
Are you wanting someone to speak with about the struggles you’ve been facing? I believe that one of the most important components to therapy is the client-counselor relationship. I aim to foster trusting relationships with all my clients so that they feel comfortable, safe, and supported in sharing any and all aspects of life. I have experience working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship issues. In working with my clients I utilize a Health at Every Size (HAES) approach and employ All Foods Fit and Intuitive Eating philosophies.
I use principles of ACT, I-CBT, ERP, RODBT, and somatic therapies to help you reconnect to your values and create a life that is full of fulfilling experiences and relationships.
I specialize in eating disorders, OCD, and anxiety. I enjoy working with high achievers, people pleasers, eldest sisters, academic validation-seekers, and neurodivergent maskers. My clinical approach pulls from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Inference-based CBT, and Radically Open DBT. I love helping people improve their quality of life through increased flexibility, openness, playfulness, and interdependence.
I believe that the key to mental health is true connection to body, mind, spirit, and community. If you want to feel less lonely, anxious, and rigid, reach out! I may be a good fit for you.
I use principles of ACT, I-CBT, ERP, RODBT, and somatic therapies to help you reconnect to your values and create a life that is full of fulfilling experiences and relationships.
I specialize in eating disorders, OCD, and anxiety. I enjoy working with high achievers, people pleasers, eldest sisters, academic validation-seekers, and neurodivergent maskers. My clinical approach pulls from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Inference-based CBT, and Radically Open DBT. I love helping people improve their quality of life through increased flexibility, openness, playfulness, and interdependence.
I believe that the key to mental health is true connection to body, mind, spirit, and community. If you want to feel less lonely, anxious, and rigid, reach out! I may be a good fit for you.
I could throw a lot of buzzwords at you about holistic care, mindfulness, and wellness but you've likely read enough of that by the time you've gotten here. So I'd rather be honest: In a world that feels so unauthentic right now, I strive to provide a space where you can speak freely and process what is going on with you and around you. I am a firm believer everyone is the master of their own experience, and therapy can be used as a tool to focus on changes you want to make and help you cope with it all. My goal is for you to show up each session willing to dive deep and make those shifts.
I could throw a lot of buzzwords at you about holistic care, mindfulness, and wellness but you've likely read enough of that by the time you've gotten here. So I'd rather be honest: In a world that feels so unauthentic right now, I strive to provide a space where you can speak freely and process what is going on with you and around you. I am a firm believer everyone is the master of their own experience, and therapy can be used as a tool to focus on changes you want to make and help you cope with it all. My goal is for you to show up each session willing to dive deep and make those shifts.
While at one point your energy, thoughtfulness and persistence served you and helped you to accomplish things, perhaps you've noticed these patterns and behaviors take on a life of their own. Now you might be more fearful, doubtful, and engaging in avoidance. What used to bring you joy is now being perceived as a chore or a threat. You want peace of mind and freedom to enjoy what's right in front of you without being consumed by all the what ifs and other worst case scenarios. You recognize that the anxiety that used to serve you is now being used against you and you're tired of it.
While at one point your energy, thoughtfulness and persistence served you and helped you to accomplish things, perhaps you've noticed these patterns and behaviors take on a life of their own. Now you might be more fearful, doubtful, and engaging in avoidance. What used to bring you joy is now being perceived as a chore or a threat. You want peace of mind and freedom to enjoy what's right in front of you without being consumed by all the what ifs and other worst case scenarios. You recognize that the anxiety that used to serve you is now being used against you and you're tired of it.
I have specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP) for OCD.
I enjoy working with people of all ages, and work with children as young as age 6. I am passionate about helping people see their strengths, gain self-awareness and self-compassion, and heal from past harmful experiences to live a fuller life in alignment with their values.
I have specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP) for OCD.
I enjoy working with people of all ages, and work with children as young as age 6. I am passionate about helping people see their strengths, gain self-awareness and self-compassion, and heal from past harmful experiences to live a fuller life in alignment with their values.
I specialize in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP).
Managing stress (school, work, relationships, transitions), anxiety, phobias, OCD, or a traumatic event? You or your child/teen may be looking to better navigate life and work towards relief from these challenges. I am here to help build important skills to manage difficult feelings and experiences and be a partner in having hard but important conversations. I see therapy as a way of having a better understanding of oneself, learning strategies for new ways of thinking and acting, and developing and working toward meaningful goals. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults.
I specialize in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP).
Managing stress (school, work, relationships, transitions), anxiety, phobias, OCD, or a traumatic event? You or your child/teen may be looking to better navigate life and work towards relief from these challenges. I am here to help build important skills to manage difficult feelings and experiences and be a partner in having hard but important conversations. I see therapy as a way of having a better understanding of oneself, learning strategies for new ways of thinking and acting, and developing and working toward meaningful goals. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults.
Using EMDR, ERP, and IFS therapy, I offer a calm, supportive space to understand your patterns, heal old wounds, soothe your nervous system, and create lasting emotional freedom.
You get things done. You push through. You handle what others can’t. But lately the pressure, anxiety, and old patterns are catching up. You want more than “holding it together.” You want clarity, calm, and the freedom to stop performing and actually feel good again. You’re ready to understand what’s happening inside, break the cycles that drain you, and step into a steadier, more grounded version of yourself.
Using EMDR, ERP, and IFS therapy, I offer a calm, supportive space to understand your patterns, heal old wounds, soothe your nervous system, and create lasting emotional freedom.
You get things done. You push through. You handle what others can’t. But lately the pressure, anxiety, and old patterns are catching up. You want more than “holding it together.” You want clarity, calm, and the freedom to stop performing and actually feel good again. You’re ready to understand what’s happening inside, break the cycles that drain you, and step into a steadier, more grounded version of yourself.
If you are ready to change the way you respond to anxiety and stress, you're in the right place. I work with clients seeking long-term lifestyle changes in the way they approach uncertainty in life, being stuck in thought loops, and obsessive thinking and compulsions. In our work together, we address anxiety and depression, OCD, and/or other mental health concerns through introspection & outward action. We work together in developing insight & creative exploration of self while taking actionable steps to rebuild trust in yourself. You can learn to meet your needs & live through your values, not your anxiety.
If you are ready to change the way you respond to anxiety and stress, you're in the right place. I work with clients seeking long-term lifestyle changes in the way they approach uncertainty in life, being stuck in thought loops, and obsessive thinking and compulsions. In our work together, we address anxiety and depression, OCD, and/or other mental health concerns through introspection & outward action. We work together in developing insight & creative exploration of self while taking actionable steps to rebuild trust in yourself. You can learn to meet your needs & live through your values, not your anxiety.
I provide ERP for individuals with OCD.
With kindness, empathy, and a sense of humor, I help patients identify their goals to move towards achieving individual objectives. I specialize in treating obsessive-compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, body-focused repetitive behaviors, women's issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I work across the lifespan, helping adolescents, adults, and seniors navigate mood, relationship, and emotional challenges. I have experience working with veterans and military families.
I provide ERP for individuals with OCD.
With kindness, empathy, and a sense of humor, I help patients identify their goals to move towards achieving individual objectives. I specialize in treating obsessive-compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, body-focused repetitive behaviors, women's issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I work across the lifespan, helping adolescents, adults, and seniors navigate mood, relationship, and emotional challenges. I have experience working with veterans and military families.
I also integrate CBT and ERP when helpful.
My clients are thoughtful, high-functioning individuals struggling with OCD—intrusive thoughts, doubt, and relentless overthinking. They often feel stuck trying to “figure things out” or get certainty. Using I-CBT, I help them understand how OCD works, step out of mental loops, and regain trust in themselves so they can move forward with clarity and confidence.
I also integrate CBT and ERP when helpful.
My clients are thoughtful, high-functioning individuals struggling with OCD—intrusive thoughts, doubt, and relentless overthinking. They often feel stuck trying to “figure things out” or get certainty. Using I-CBT, I help them understand how OCD works, step out of mental loops, and regain trust in themselves so they can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Our sessions are a place where you can freely explore your innermost thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. My approach is to marry validation with practical tools and strategies to navigate your personal struggles, whether related to specific mental health concerns, your relationships, or significant life transitions. Together, we work towards your goals of finding self-compassion, direction, emotional resilience, and greater self-confidence. My role as your therapist is to provide support, guidance, and empathy, aiming to empower you on your path toward a more fulfilling life.
Our sessions are a place where you can freely explore your innermost thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. My approach is to marry validation with practical tools and strategies to navigate your personal struggles, whether related to specific mental health concerns, your relationships, or significant life transitions. Together, we work towards your goals of finding self-compassion, direction, emotional resilience, and greater self-confidence. My role as your therapist is to provide support, guidance, and empathy, aiming to empower you on your path toward a more fulfilling life.
I use evidenced-based approaches such as Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) to guide you through the process of taming anxiety and OCD.
In sessions, we’ll work together to design values-based exposures, develop tools to quiet the noise of anxiety and OCD, cultivate self-compassion, and celebrate wins by acknowledging every small step towards recovery as moments of joy and empowerment.
We can do hard things!
I use evidenced-based approaches such as Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) to guide you through the process of taming anxiety and OCD.
In sessions, we’ll work together to design values-based exposures, develop tools to quiet the noise of anxiety and OCD, cultivate self-compassion, and celebrate wins by acknowledging every small step towards recovery as moments of joy and empowerment.
We can do hard things!
Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, loss, oppression, life transitions, capitalism, difficult relationships, or existential thoughts. I can help you explore your inner world, navigate the challenges in your life, and learn skills and tools to help you move through your life with more grounded ease and joy. Let’s make positive changes together that enable you to feel more nourished and alive each day.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, loss, oppression, life transitions, capitalism, difficult relationships, or existential thoughts. I can help you explore your inner world, navigate the challenges in your life, and learn skills and tools to help you move through your life with more grounded ease and joy. Let’s make positive changes together that enable you to feel more nourished and alive each day.
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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.