Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) suggests that our thoughts, feelings/emotions, and behaviors are all connected to one another and influence one another. CBT aims to identify and modify unhelpful thinking and behavioral patterns.

Imagine walking into school, the grocery store, the mall, or church. As soon as you walk in, you are suddenly paralyzed with anxiety, unable to speak to anyone. You are unable to ask questions or get help with your basic needs. You struggle to make eye contact. For many children with selective mutism this crippling anxiety is part of everyday life.

Unfortunately, it often takes people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) many years to receive proper diagnosis and treatment after symptom onset. In fact, due to stigma, embarrassment, lack of public awareness about OCD, financial barriers, and lack of access to a properly trained mental health professional, some estimates suggest that it takes an average of 14-17 years to obtain proper treatment. There are, however, very effective treatments available.

OCD stands for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, which is a neurobiological condition that affects an estimated 1 in 100 children and 1 in 40 adults across the United States. OCD causes unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that often lead to repetitive behaviors, routines or rituals (compulsions) that are performed in an effort to ease anxiety.