Erica Callicoatte Villanueva

Early on, I knew I wanted to help people. I enjoy helping others overcome their difficulties, struggles, and trauma. I have seen anxiety disorders and depression among my friends and family. I've seen people struggle internally and alone because they're not ready for help or they're feeling ashamed. I've also seen other people say, 'OK, I know there's treatment. I know I need help, and I'm going to ask for it.' I have anxiety myself. Although I've not been diagnosed with OCD, I know what it's like to struggle with fear and worry that you can't work through it. But I know it's possible, if you're willing to seek help and to do the work.

Working with OCD is a cool challenge. You don't really learn about it in grad school. I had just heard about it as a disorder that not many people knew how to treat. But when I started to research ERP—the opposite of some forms of coping skills, actually helping people expose themselves to their fears—I thought that it was an interesting and different challenge from what I was used to. Since then, I have seen that ERP is very effective, if you consistently put in the work and practice doing exposures on your own.

I have treated anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I've not only worked with adults, but also with children who, unfortunately, have experienced trauma. I've also helped people who struggle with substance abuse issues work toward sobriety.

You probably know about OCD and ERP already. When we begin, I want to hear what your experiences are first. You know yourself better than I do, so you can really tell me what you need and help guide me in helping you. When it comes to ERP, there is going to be work involved. It's not just a passive talking session. You will need to be motivated. But once you start, you're in good hands. You'll feel safe. You can trust that what you share is private and confidential. You will have help in beating the OCD bully.

You should know that a lot of people have felt the same way. We can explore what's holding you back from opening up. Maybe you had a negative experience in the past. I'd like you to tell me, what is your fear about? What are you worried will happen if you share?