Frequently Asked Questions

  • When your mind feels stuck in loops of “what if,” therapy helps you step out of the cycle. Together, we look at the patterns that keep anxiety going, like avoiding, analyzing, or seeking certainty, and begin to shift how you relate to your thoughts.

    The goal isn’t to control every worry. It’s to change your relationship with them so that life can feel larger, calmer, and more meaningful again.

  • You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Some people start when anxiety or stress becomes overwhelming; others begin out of curiosity or a desire to grow. Therapy can support you at any stage: whether you’re processing something difficult or simply wanting to feel more grounded and connected.

  • Yes. My training and experience are centered on the treatment of OCD and anxiety-related disorders.

    I’ve trained extensively in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) through Anxiety Therapy LA and Praxis. I’ve also completed advanced training in the Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) and previously worked in UCLA’s Intensive Outpatient Program supporting dual-diagnosis clients.

    These experiences have shaped my approach into something practical, compassionate, and deeply respectful of the human experience.

  • The first session is about connection and understanding. You’ll share what’s been on your mind and what you hope to work on, and I’ll outline how I approach therapy. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and understood as we begin this work together.

  • Not at all. Therapy isn’t only for crises. It can also be a space to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most.

  • While I specialize in OCD, anxiety, and overthinking, therapy can also help with depression, relationship challenges, stress, perfectionism, identity exploration, and life transitions. At its core, therapy offers a place to pause, gain perspective, and respond to life with greater awareness and choice.

  • Yes. Everything we discuss is kept confidential, with a few exceptions related to safety or legal requirements. I’ll explain these limits clearly at the beginning so you always know what to expect.

  • You can reach out directly through the Contact page to schedule a session or ask any questions before getting started.

  • That’s completely okay. Many people begin therapy unsure of where to start. Sometimes we begin with a small thought or feeling and follow what naturally unfolds. You don’t need to have a plan. Curiosity is enough.

  • I work primarily with OCD, anxiety, and overthinking. These often show up as rumination, intrusive thoughts, or a need for certainty. The goal is to help you relate differently to your mind so you can move toward what truly matters in your life.

  • There isn’t one single approach that fits everyone. I draw from evidence-based therapies including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices, while tailoring the process to each person. The work is collaborative and deeply human. My goal is to help you live more freely and meaningfully. If for any reason we aren’t the right fit, I’ll help you find someone who is.

  • ERP is a structured, evidence-based approach that helps retrain your brain to respond differently to anxiety and uncertainty. Over time, the fears that once felt overwhelming lose their power. It’s not about forcing yourself into fear: it’s about learning to live with uncertainty in a more flexible and compassionate way.

    Read more about ERP: https://www.reedfarrer.com/blog/what-is-erp-and-how-can-it-help-with-ocd

  • Yes. Decades of research show that ERP is the most effective treatment for OCD across all age groups. Most people experience significant improvement in both symptoms and quality of life when ERP is practiced consistently with guidance and support.

  • ACT is an evidence-based approach that helps you change your relationship with thoughts, feelings, and uncertainty. Instead of trying to eliminate anxiety or control every “what if,” ACT teaches you to notice and allow your experiences while choosing actions that move you toward what matters most. Over time, this builds flexibility, presence, and a sense of freedom not dependent on your mind being quiet.

    Read more about ACT for OCD here: https://www.reedfarrer.com/blog/what-is-act-for-ocd

  • Yes. Studies show that ACT is effective for OCD, either on its own or combined with ERP. It helps reduce compulsions, lessen anxiety’s grip, and improve overall quality of life by building psychological flexibility. Many people find that ACT supports long-term growth by keeping them connected to their values and daily life.