Michaela McCloud
Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker
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Like many people, I was diagnosed with OCD many years after my symptoms appeared. That's why I'm passionate about supporting members through their personal journeys. As a therapist, I'm direct and compassionate, adding a touch of humor when appropriate. I approach ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) with curiosity, and I'll empower you to tell your story authentically. ERP can be challenging, but we will work on it together. You are brave and worthy of happiness! My other areas of focus include anxiety, depressive disorders, and the LGBTQ+ community at large.
Like many people, I was diagnosed with OCD many years after my symptoms appeared. That's why I'm passionate about supporting members through their personal journeys. As a therapist, I'm direct and compassionate, adding a touch of humor when appropriate. I approach ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) with curiosity, and I'll empower you to tell your story authentically. ERP can be challenging, but we will work on it together. You are brave and worthy of happiness! My other areas of focus include anxiety, depressive disorders, and the LGBTQ+ community at large.
Location
Licensed in California
About
Clinical Expertise
OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Skin picking, Hair pulling, Nail biting, Tics, Children and Adolescents
Cultural competencies
Judaism, Christianity
Education
San Diego State University
Insurance
Plans accepted by Michaela
Aetna, Ascension SmartHealth, Blue Shield, Blue Shield of California, Cigna, Forest County Potawatomi, Oscar Health, Partners Direct Health, Positive Healthcare, United Healthcare, Western Health Advantage,
Want to work with Michaela?
Talk with our team to learn more.
Get to know Michaela
My personal connection to OCD and mental health
I started having symptoms of OCD when I was about eight, and wasn't diagnosed until I was about 21—so I can really relate to people who weren't able to get into treatment for a while. I'm also on the spectrum, and I really like working with Autistic therapy Members. I find a lot of joy in getting creative with ERP when I work with other people who are neurodivergent.
How my identity and background impacts my work
One of my biggest passions in life is working with the LGBTQ+ community. Before I came to NOCD, I worked in community health, specifically with 18 to 25-year-old homeless LGBTQ+ youth—I really valued gaining this experience working with people in my own community.
What I want to help you see in yourself
I want you to learn what you're capable of. With OCD, one of the things that I see all the time is a feeling of hopelessness—a feeling that the OCD is bigger than ourselves and we no longer have autonomy over our lives. One of the really beautiful things that can be highlighted through ERP is that you do have autonomy, and you do have a choice, and you are capable of learning new skills and seeing that you are stronger than OCD.
My message to you if you're struggling right now
If you don't ask, the answer is always no—and if you don't try, you're never going to know. If you go in thinking, I need to 100% commit to this today in order to see change, I don't think that's true. You can take it as it comes. You can start by just reaching out, learning a little bit about OCD and ERP, and taking it one step at a time, instead of seeing treatment as a big, scary thing that you have to tackle on your own.
Why our members love working with Michaela
B.F.
I feel that I’ve made no progress. I am still where I was when I joined. Doubtful that this is even helping
K.M.
I was having a really bad day, I expressed frustration and anger and excitement over what I was going thru and the therapist handled it like a champ and didn't flee away, but got me to a point where I slowed down and started talking instead of raising my voice. That's not easy for a therapist to do and I really respect that they were able to do that. So far, this therapy experience has been the best I've ever tried.
H.K.
Michaela is wonderful
H.K.
Got such a good first impression
M.N.
I feel good about our session.
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