Marie Connelly

I can't really remember a time when I didn't act in a therapeutic capacity towards my friends and loved ones. It felt natural to continue walking that path and learn the skills of this trade so I could help people realize their fullest potential. Seeing the people I work with achieve their goals, and knowing I was able to walk that path with them, has been the greatest joy of my life.

OCD is kind of an enigma in the mental health world. Many clinicians don't really know what to do when they encounter someone with OCD. I found myself in that position during my training. Learning how to recognize, understand, and treat OCD allows me to be a more well-rounded therapist for all and help people who often have a hard time finding the care they need.

Neurodiverse populations, LGBTQIA+, trauma, and IDD populations. My experience working with IDD populations has been incredibly rewarding. The system is riddled with deficits, and I've found that my advocacy is a force for good here. I belong to the LGBTQIA+ population and believe more sensitive and targeted care is needed.

ERP can be hard and at times feel distressing. I like to think of it this way: To reorganize your home, you need to make a mess to sort through. I'll be with you during the entire process, and I know that in the end, the distress you experienced will be worth it. You will feel the decreased effect of OCD in your everyday life.

Please tell me if you feel that way. I do my best to create the safest space possible where you can share everything. But I can always do more to create that space for you. Know that you aren't alone in experiencing difficulty, and talking about it always helps.