Lauren Spencer

I incorporate CBT most frequently with my clients who have OCD. This does not include generic CBT, but rather Exposure-Response Prevention which is an offshoot of CBT. This treatment gives clients practice at resisting their compulsions. I am also training in ICBT, another branch as well, that targets the doubt that accompanies OCD.

Therapy is scary. It’s unknown and uncertain. And yet, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Yes, it requires bravery, but I promise, there is relief that comes from effective counseling. I speak from personal experience when I say, it gets better and it’s worth it. You can get back to living a full life. 

I believe the most successful therapy is tailored to meet the individual needs of clients. No matter the presenting concern of my client, the therapeutic relationship will always be a top priority, and the personal goals of my clients are considered when developing treatment strategies and goals. You will always have a voice in this process. Whether you are seeking treatment for anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, OCD, or couples counseling, I hope to be a part of your journey as you reengage fully with life. I speak from personal experience when I say it gets better. When I'm not being a therapist, I enjoy playing with my giant dog, binge watching The Crown, and restoring vintage furniture.

In using Acceptance-Commitment Therapy, I focus on getting my clients back to living values-based lives. We often stop living into our values when things like anxiety, panic, depression, and even relational stress show up in our lives. Getting back to living into values increases the quality of life and reduces symptoms. I also use this modality to encourage living in the present moment and making space for unpleasant emotions in order to heal those emotional experiences.

I do not work with children and adolescents as individual clients. However, I do hold a teens with OCD support group.