cognitive behavior therapy
Exposure with Response Prevention
near San Jose, California
Exposure with Response Prevention (ERP) is widely recognized as the gold standard in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
In ERP, we will change the way you respond to your intrusive thoughts. You will learn not to take intrusive thoughts literally and stop feeling like you have to do what OCD wants you to do. We will test your fears by going towards situations that you have been avoiding and reducing the behaviors that reinforce the cycle.
How ERP WORKS
1.
UNDERSTAND THE CYCLE
Obsessive thoughts are overwhelming. The more you try to make the anxiety go away through rituals or avoidance, the more trapped you feel. We start ERP by learning to observe this cycle so you can stop feeling like anxiety is running the show.
2.
CHANGE YOUR RESPONSES
In ERP, you’ll learn to respond to intrusive thoughts in new ways, without falling back on overdoing, checking or reassurance. It’s not about ignoring your anxiety, but about teaching your brain that you don’t need to react to every fear it throws at you.
3.
FACE YOUR FEARS
With support, you’ll face what you’ve been avoiding. We’ll work together to create a plan for exposures that help you gradually confront your fears at a pace that feels challenging but doable. Each step builds your tolerance for uncertainty.
4.
BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE
ERP isn’t about being fearless—it’s about learning you can handle discomfort and uncertainty. Over time, you'll gain trust in yourself and feel more free to live life without constant checking, avoiding, or seeking reassurance.
Personalized TREATMENTÂ
​ERP works best when it’s built around your unique fears, values, and what matters most in your life. There’s no generic plan here. We’ll spend time understanding how OCD shows up for you and create a step-by-step approach that feels doable and supportive.
Whether your anxiety centers around contamination, intrusive thoughts, health fears, or something else, we’ll tailor your exposures so they’re challenging, but not overwhelming. Beyond reducing anxiety, the goal of ERP is to help you feel more in control, more confident, and more free to live your life.
You deserve support that works. In my San Jose practice, I combine warmth with practical tools to help you feel more in control. My goal is to help you feel equipped, empowered, and supported throughout the process.
ERP in San Jose: What to Expect
When you begin ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) therapy with me—either in person in San Jose or online anywhere in California—our sessions will be structured, supportive, and tailored to your unique OCD symptoms. We’ll start by identifying the specific obsessions and compulsions you’re struggling with, then work together to create a personalized exposure hierarchy.
In each session, we’ll practice facing feared thoughts, images, or situations (exposures), while helping you resist the urge to engage in compulsions or safety behaviors (response prevention). You’ll never be forced into anything before you’re ready—we’ll take it step by step, with plenty of preparation and collaboration. Over time, you’ll build confidence, reduce anxiety, and gain freedom from the OCD cycle.
Why is it important to work with an OCD specialist?
Specialized Expertise: An OCD specialist has specific training in evidence-based treatments for OCD, such as Exposure and Response Prevention. Many therapies that help with other disorders like anxiety and depression can actually make OCD worse.This includes traditional CBT!
Personalized Treatment: OCD specialists develop personalized treatment plans that address your unique symptoms, triggers, and goals. This individualized approach is crucial in OCD treatment, as everyone's fears and cycles are unique.
In-Depth Understanding: OCD specialists have a deep understanding of the complexities of OCD, including its various subtypes and how it can show up differently in individuals. For ERP to work, it is important that we individually conceptualize the ways that OCD is impacting you.
Proven Track Record: Choosing an OCD specialist means opting for a professional who has successfully helped many others overcome OCD symptoms.
Getting Started in Exposure with Response Prevention
About CAITLYN
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. I have been working as a therapist since 2009, specializing in Cognitive Behavior Therapy for anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorders. Before starting my own practice in 2021 I worked at a specialty anxiety/OCD group practice for many years, as well as community mental health, and school settings.
​
My practice is located in Campbell, CA in the South SF Bay Area, near San Jose, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Los Altos, Mountain View, Sunnyvale and Cupertino.
​
I have been working primarily with clients struggling with anxiety since 2012. ​Read more about my speciality training here.
​​
My approach to anxiety and OCD treatment is compassionate and personalized. This work is challenging but we will go at your pace and focus on the symptoms that are getting in the way of your life.
​
Ready to get started or have more questions?
Located in CAMPBELL near SAN JOSE
Address
51 E Campbell Ave
Campbell, CA 98005
What to EXPECT
My office is located near San Jose in Campbell in the historic Heritage Village Offices. Conveniently located near restaurants and shops, my office is quiet with a peaceful courtyard view. There is plenty of parking. When you arrive at the Campbell Ave entrance, you will be greeted by our front desk staff and I show to to my private office.