Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Krystal Buchanan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Krystal Buchanan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Online Only
I am trauma informed and knowledgeable in both CBT and DBT, including specific evidence based interventions for OCD, anxiety, trauma as well as self-harm and suicidality.
I take a person-centered, strengths-based approach to meet clients where they are and address what they feel is impacting their lives the most. I believe building a strong relationship is the foundation of therapy, this is done by maintaining a non-judgmental stance and unconditional positive regard. The thing I love most about being a therapist is watching my clients grow and having the opportunity to be part of their journey. I pride myself on the passion I have for what I do, and how that translates into my ability to advocate for my clients.
I am trauma informed and knowledgeable in both CBT and DBT, including specific evidence based interventions for OCD, anxiety, trauma as well as self-harm and suicidality.
I take a person-centered, strengths-based approach to meet clients where they are and address what they feel is impacting their lives the most. I believe building a strong relationship is the foundation of therapy, this is done by maintaining a non-judgmental stance and unconditional positive regard. The thing I love most about being a therapist is watching my clients grow and having the opportunity to be part of their journey. I pride myself on the passion I have for what I do, and how that translates into my ability to advocate for my clients.
(414) 240-8720 View (414) 240-8720
Photo of Madeline Bush, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Madeline Bush
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I also specialize in cognitive behavior approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Exposure & Response Prevention to address struggles with depression, anxiety & emotional dysregulation, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
In my practice, prioritizing empowerment through knowledge is a top priority. I believe that knowledge is not only comforting but also transformative, so I dedicate time to explaining psychological concepts and therapeutic approaches in accessible terms. I also strongly believe in the art of humor in the therapy room. Laughter joins & heals.
I also specialize in cognitive behavior approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Exposure & Response Prevention to address struggles with depression, anxiety & emotional dysregulation, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
In my practice, prioritizing empowerment through knowledge is a top priority. I believe that knowledge is not only comforting but also transformative, so I dedicate time to explaining psychological concepts and therapeutic approaches in accessible terms. I also strongly believe in the art of humor in the therapy room. Laughter joins & heals.
(414) 261-4833 View (414) 261-4833
Photo of Julie Abdullah, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Julie Abdullah
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I have experience working with anxiety, OCD, depression, personality disorders, trauma, and PTSD.
Are you starting to wonder if what you feel is "normal"? Maybe anxiety is getting to the point where it is an exhausting, everyday occurrence, and you'd like to get back in control of your life. Everyone struggles with overwhelming situations and emotions from time to time, and I am a firm believer that no obstacle you are facing right now is too big to tackle. As your therapist, I will use practical strategies that will guide you in your journey of empowerment and assist with creating a strengthened sense of self. I will help you make sense of difficult experiences and guide you to the life you most want to live.
I have experience working with anxiety, OCD, depression, personality disorders, trauma, and PTSD.
Are you starting to wonder if what you feel is "normal"? Maybe anxiety is getting to the point where it is an exhausting, everyday occurrence, and you'd like to get back in control of your life. Everyone struggles with overwhelming situations and emotions from time to time, and I am a firm believer that no obstacle you are facing right now is too big to tackle. As your therapist, I will use practical strategies that will guide you in your journey of empowerment and assist with creating a strengthened sense of self. I will help you make sense of difficult experiences and guide you to the life you most want to live.
(414) 404-3243 View (414) 404-3243
Photo of Carrie Torres, Counselor, MS, LPC
Carrie Torres
Counselor, MS, LPC
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I help adults and adolescents living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and anxiety to regain control of their lives using a collaborative and goal-based approach.
If anxiety and fear are constant companions, life probably feels like an uphill battle. Living with relentless-intrusive thoughts, terrifying images, paralyzing anxiety, and mental and health-related fears is exhausting. Being pregnant or a new parent adds additional factors like hormonal changes, stress, and responsibility, which can make symptoms worse. Working with me, you will gain a better understanding of what is happening, reduce anxiety, fear, and shame, and learn helpful tools and coping skills to manage and regain self-trust.
I help adults and adolescents living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and anxiety to regain control of their lives using a collaborative and goal-based approach.
If anxiety and fear are constant companions, life probably feels like an uphill battle. Living with relentless-intrusive thoughts, terrifying images, paralyzing anxiety, and mental and health-related fears is exhausting. Being pregnant or a new parent adds additional factors like hormonal changes, stress, and responsibility, which can make symptoms worse. Working with me, you will gain a better understanding of what is happening, reduce anxiety, fear, and shame, and learn helpful tools and coping skills to manage and regain self-trust.
(414) 867-2248 View (414) 867-2248
Photo of Brittni Bowie, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LPC, CEDS-C, NCC, LMHC
Brittni Bowie
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LPC, CEDS-C, NCC, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Specializing in binge eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), anorexia, bulimia, and other disordered eating patterns, I also extend my hand to those battling OCD.
At the core of our humanity lies the profound need for connection, and it is within this bond that transformation thrives. My mission is to dismantle the shackles of diet culture, foster a healthy relationship with food, cultivate a positive body image, and empower you to embrace the life you envision. Utilizing evidence-based techniques such as CBT, DBT, and RO DBT, I strive to empower you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace life's challenges with resilience. In our sessions, you are free to be authentically yourself, whether that means showing up in pajamas or accompanied by a furry friend.
Specializing in binge eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), anorexia, bulimia, and other disordered eating patterns, I also extend my hand to those battling OCD.
At the core of our humanity lies the profound need for connection, and it is within this bond that transformation thrives. My mission is to dismantle the shackles of diet culture, foster a healthy relationship with food, cultivate a positive body image, and empower you to embrace the life you envision. Utilizing evidence-based techniques such as CBT, DBT, and RO DBT, I strive to empower you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace life's challenges with resilience. In our sessions, you are free to be authentically yourself, whether that means showing up in pajamas or accompanied by a furry friend.
(262) 300-5035 View (262) 300-5035
Photo of Michael Bortin, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Michael Bortin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Milwaukee, WI 53220
In addition, I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive symptoms, Adjustment issues, Post Traumatic Stress, Mood concerns, interpersonal struggles, and LGBTQ+ issues.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I focuse on the importance of the Mind-Body connection. I use a wide range of therapeutic techniques to help individuals gain insight, work towards desired goals, and reach their true potential. I specialize in treating Anxiety, including Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic symptoms, and Phobias.
In addition, I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive symptoms, Adjustment issues, Post Traumatic Stress, Mood concerns, interpersonal struggles, and LGBTQ+ issues.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I focuse on the importance of the Mind-Body connection. I use a wide range of therapeutic techniques to help individuals gain insight, work towards desired goals, and reach their true potential. I specialize in treating Anxiety, including Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic symptoms, and Phobias.
(414) 420-9315 View (414) 420-9315
Photo of Garrett Wilk, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SAC
Garrett Wilk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SAC
4 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211
I work with clients who struggle with their emotions, purpose, and overall life satisfaction as well as couples, OCD, Trauma, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
I am interested in the challenges and advantages of what it means to be highly sensitive or an empath. As a therapist, I am drawn to those who tend to struggle with issues like depression, life transitions/change, worry, anxiety, perfectionism, rumination, social anxiety, self-doubt, shame, and feelings of meaninglessness. I am here to help you through your challenges and provide support. My approach is to non-judgmentally understand what drives the behaviors that seem so difficult to change. I am dedicated to establishing an authentic, intentional, and trusting relationship.
I work with clients who struggle with their emotions, purpose, and overall life satisfaction as well as couples, OCD, Trauma, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
I am interested in the challenges and advantages of what it means to be highly sensitive or an empath. As a therapist, I am drawn to those who tend to struggle with issues like depression, life transitions/change, worry, anxiety, perfectionism, rumination, social anxiety, self-doubt, shame, and feelings of meaninglessness. I am here to help you through your challenges and provide support. My approach is to non-judgmentally understand what drives the behaviors that seem so difficult to change. I am dedicated to establishing an authentic, intentional, and trusting relationship.
(262) 649-7576 View (262) 649-7576
Photo of Jerilyn Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jerilyn Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I teach skills and mindset shifts to manage relationship issues, anxiety & overwhelm, OCD, and general life dissatisfaction.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and irritable all of the time? Do you find it hard to prioritize yourself over others? Maybe you're always looking toward the next goal to help you feel more fulfilled, but it never does. You've worked hard to get to where you are, only to feel confused because your success hasn't made you feel content. Instead, you're struggling with anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, and feeling dissatisfied with your life. This is a tough place to be, but it can get better.
I teach skills and mindset shifts to manage relationship issues, anxiety & overwhelm, OCD, and general life dissatisfaction.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and irritable all of the time? Do you find it hard to prioritize yourself over others? Maybe you're always looking toward the next goal to help you feel more fulfilled, but it never does. You've worked hard to get to where you are, only to feel confused because your success hasn't made you feel content. Instead, you're struggling with anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, and feeling dissatisfied with your life. This is a tough place to be, but it can get better.
(262) 393-3169 View (262) 393-3169
Photo of Kathryn Kuehn, Pre-Licensed Professional, APSW
Kathryn Kuehn
Pre-Licensed Professional, APSW
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53233
I specialize in providing affirming therapy for diverse groups of adolescents (14+) through college students & adults, including individuals w/ADHD, chronic anxiety, OCD, autism, social anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic health concerns and disabilities.
I am an advanced practice social worker with a Master's from Columbia University, and I provide remote counseling throughout Wisconsin. I work with adolescents, college students, and adults. After growing up internationally & living in multiple US states, I found my passion of working with individuals of diverse backgrounds on their mental health needs.
I specialize in providing affirming therapy for diverse groups of adolescents (14+) through college students & adults, including individuals w/ADHD, chronic anxiety, OCD, autism, social anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic health concerns and disabilities.
I am an advanced practice social worker with a Master's from Columbia University, and I provide remote counseling throughout Wisconsin. I work with adolescents, college students, and adults. After growing up internationally & living in multiple US states, I found my passion of working with individuals of diverse backgrounds on their mental health needs.
(608) 765-8521 View (608) 765-8521
Photo of Christina Hauritz - Christina Hauritz - NOCD, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Christina Hauritz - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Online Only
My decision to specialize in OCD was deeply influenced by personal experience, familial connections, and professional exposure to individuals grappling with this challenging condition.
When you start with NOCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues based on your preferences. We’ll take the time to get to know you and create a treatment plan to help you achieve your goals. Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
My decision to specialize in OCD was deeply influenced by personal experience, familial connections, and professional exposure to individuals grappling with this challenging condition.
When you start with NOCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues based on your preferences. We’ll take the time to get to know you and create a treatment plan to help you achieve your goals. Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
(385) 354-7810 View (385) 354-7810
Photo of Frankie Day, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Frankie Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety.
When treating OCD, I use elements of ERP and psychodynamic treatment together. This integrated approach targets the symptoms of OCD, while also revealing its underlying causes. I find that this approach can help my clients understand how their symptoms relate to their past experiences, ultimately leading to a more sustainable recovery from OCD.
I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety.
When treating OCD, I use elements of ERP and psychodynamic treatment together. This integrated approach targets the symptoms of OCD, while also revealing its underlying causes. I find that this approach can help my clients understand how their symptoms relate to their past experiences, ultimately leading to a more sustainable recovery from OCD.
(608) 453-8308 View (608) 453-8308
Photo of Samantha Lueloff, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Samantha Lueloff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
She specializes in working with individuals struggling to overcome Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, and Eating Disorders.
Sam pulls from a strong behavioral background that folds in emotion-focused and trauma-informed techniques, allowing her to fully meet and treat her clients as a whole person. She has over a decade of working with adults and adolescents of varying ethnicities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
She specializes in working with individuals struggling to overcome Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, and Eating Disorders.
Sam pulls from a strong behavioral background that folds in emotion-focused and trauma-informed techniques, allowing her to fully meet and treat her clients as a whole person. She has over a decade of working with adults and adolescents of varying ethnicities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
(262) 235-5960 View (262) 235-5960
Photo of Abigail Lynch, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, MS
Abigail Lynch
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, MS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and more.
I have extensive training working with anxiety disorders as well as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and I offer structured sessions that help address your specific symptoms and problematic responses to the anxiety you experience. I provide a space for processing, skill practice and goal setting so you can work through triggers in and outside of sessions.
I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and more.
I have extensive training working with anxiety disorders as well as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and I offer structured sessions that help address your specific symptoms and problematic responses to the anxiety you experience. I provide a space for processing, skill practice and goal setting so you can work through triggers in and outside of sessions.
(872) 201-3249 View (872) 201-3249
Photo of Alicia Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Alicia Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Areas of expertise: anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, dysfunctional family systems, EMDR, codependency and chronic neglect of the self
Change begins with nonjudgemental curiosity. I am a good fit for people who feel lost or un-compassed in their life due to codependency (a chronic neglect of the Self) and/or trauma. I work with individuals, couples and families but I have a particular strength in helping women to find their Voice.
Areas of expertise: anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, dysfunctional family systems, EMDR, codependency and chronic neglect of the self
Change begins with nonjudgemental curiosity. I am a good fit for people who feel lost or un-compassed in their life due to codependency (a chronic neglect of the Self) and/or trauma. I work with individuals, couples and families but I have a particular strength in helping women to find their Voice.
(414) 626-0467 View (414) 626-0467
Photo of Lucia DiVieste-Severtson - The Brave Women’s Transformation Project LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDMT, CCATP, KAP
The Brave Women’s Transformation Project LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDMT, CCATP, KAP
Serves Area
As a seasoned psychotherapist licensed in Colorado, Ohio, Vermont, and Wisconsin, I bring a specialized approach to mental health care, centering on assisting women grappling with Anxiety, Complex PTSD, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
I entered this field driven by my own journey as an OCD survivor, enriching my practice with genuine empathy and a profound understanding of mental health struggles. This personal experience fuels my commitment to helping you explore new perspectives and rediscover your inner strengths.
As a seasoned psychotherapist licensed in Colorado, Ohio, Vermont, and Wisconsin, I bring a specialized approach to mental health care, centering on assisting women grappling with Anxiety, Complex PTSD, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
I entered this field driven by my own journey as an OCD survivor, enriching my practice with genuine empathy and a profound understanding of mental health struggles. This personal experience fuels my commitment to helping you explore new perspectives and rediscover your inner strengths.
(720) 438-4481 View (720) 438-4481
Photo of Sara Beth Austin, Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, DARTT, RYT
Sara Beth Austin
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, DARTT, RYT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Overcontrol can lead to anxiety, depression, disordered eating, obsessive-compulsive behavior, and intimacy avoidance.
We’ll integrate science-based treatments like Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with embodied healing tools like meditation and yoga. Using practical (and fun!) research-validated strategies, you’ll learn to harness your self-control as a strength and break free from patterns that burn you out.
Overcontrol can lead to anxiety, depression, disordered eating, obsessive-compulsive behavior, and intimacy avoidance.
We’ll integrate science-based treatments like Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with embodied healing tools like meditation and yoga. Using practical (and fun!) research-validated strategies, you’ll learn to harness your self-control as a strength and break free from patterns that burn you out.
(971) 252-5441 View (971) 252-5441
Photo of Sarah Farris, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Sarah Farris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help individuals overcome rumination & obsessive worry and return to valued living.
I offer evidence based interventions including exposure & response prevention (ERP), cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, executive functioning and skill development. Together we will explore the challenges you are facing, identify goals for making meaningful changes, and develop a plan to reduce how anxiety and self-doubt interferes with daily life.
I help individuals overcome rumination & obsessive worry and return to valued living.
I offer evidence based interventions including exposure & response prevention (ERP), cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, executive functioning and skill development. Together we will explore the challenges you are facing, identify goals for making meaningful changes, and develop a plan to reduce how anxiety and self-doubt interferes with daily life.
(773) 492-8532 View (773) 492-8532
Photo of Dan Buehler, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Dan Buehler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) in the treatment of PTSD, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Behavioral Activation (BA) for depression, and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD.
Over the past twelve years I have worked in the mental health field in a variety of capacities, including inpatient units, residential facilities, and day treatment settings. My experience and training with adolescents, adults, and families in these settings has given me a practical knowledge and understanding when working alongside my clients to facilitate change. A significant part of my experience has been working with adults and adolescents coping with past trauma to adjust and move past stuck points, decrease depression, and move forward on the life they want to live.
I utilize Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) in the treatment of PTSD, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Behavioral Activation (BA) for depression, and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD.
Over the past twelve years I have worked in the mental health field in a variety of capacities, including inpatient units, residential facilities, and day treatment settings. My experience and training with adolescents, adults, and families in these settings has given me a practical knowledge and understanding when working alongside my clients to facilitate change. A significant part of my experience has been working with adults and adolescents coping with past trauma to adjust and move past stuck points, decrease depression, and move forward on the life they want to live.
(414) 509-0567 View (414) 509-0567
Photo of Dr. Rae Anne Ho Fung - Balanced Collective, Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC, LCSW
Balanced Collective
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC, LCSW
Serves Area
Each of our therapists has spent years honing their expertise in specific areas of mental health to deliver effective, research backed care for maternal mental health, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, burnout, and related challenges.
You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself. Maybe you’re navigating stress, anxiety, trauma, or grief—and it’s starting to affect your relationships, your work, or your sense of purpose. You might look like you’re holding it all together, but inside, you’re struggling with the tension between who you are and who you want to be. If you’re ready to explore those feelings and find a more balanced, grounded version of yourself, you’re in the right place. We support clients ready for meaningful change, even if they don’t know where to start, with collaborative and personalized care.
Each of our therapists has spent years honing their expertise in specific areas of mental health to deliver effective, research backed care for maternal mental health, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, burnout, and related challenges.
You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself. Maybe you’re navigating stress, anxiety, trauma, or grief—and it’s starting to affect your relationships, your work, or your sense of purpose. You might look like you’re holding it all together, but inside, you’re struggling with the tension between who you are and who you want to be. If you’re ready to explore those feelings and find a more balanced, grounded version of yourself, you’re in the right place. We support clients ready for meaningful change, even if they don’t know where to start, with collaborative and personalized care.
(262) 592-8227 View (262) 592-8227
Photo of Mitch Vogel, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT, SAC-IT
Mitch Vogel
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT, SAC-IT
Serves Area
Are you feeling trapped by OCD, disordered eating, or addictive behaviors?
Drawing from evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs and goals.
Are you feeling trapped by OCD, disordered eating, or addictive behaviors?
Drawing from evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs and goals.
(262) 400-2368 View (262) 400-2368

See more therapy options for Milwaukee

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.