Gail F. Pesses MSW, LCSW

In my practice, I see adults, adolescents and children for OCD as well as most of the OC related disorders. Approximately 60-75% of my patients at any given time have OCD. My primary treatment method is ERP. When appropriate, I may add features of mindfulness training, ACT, relaxation techniques and mood regulation. I have several excellent psychiatrists who I refer patients to should medication be needed.

I also treat Depression, Bi-Polar, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, ADHD, Autism Spectrum. Depression and GAD frequently accompany OCD and are treated concurrently. Bi-Polar has to be addressed first so that the chemical aspects of it do not interfere with the treatment for OCD. Prioritizing ADHD and Autism with OCD is determined by severity and patient’s ability to focus on OCD treatment.

The majority of people who have 1 (or more) OCD disorders also suffer from depression and/or general anxiety. I incorporate treatment for these within their OCD treatment by providing information @ the other disorder(s) as well as normalizing the presence of co-occurring diagnoses. I teach them some ACT techniques which are helpful. If needed or desired, I will refer them for medication so that the additional dz does not prohibit effective treatment for their OCD. I then follow up with that provider after obtaining permission from the patient.

I have been involved with OCD treatment for the past 18 years and completed the IOCDF’s Behavior Therapy Training Institute in 2007. I have been treating OCD patients of all ages for over 10 years. In order to keep up with the most current research and information, I have attended the IOCDF’s Annual Conference most years since 1999. I have presented workshops on OCD at LA-NASW conferences, local social service agencies as well for graduate social work students at Tulane University and Our Lady of Holy Cross College. In addition, I co-moderated an online support group for parents of children with OCD.