When it comes to engaging in therapy, it is important to know what type of treatment your therapist utilizes and to determine if it is the best fit for you. There are a number of different approaches (clinically referred to as theoretical orientations), from psychodynamic, to Rogerian, to Emotions Focused (EFT), to cognitive and behavioral (CBT, ACT). All have their place, but typically the research indicates which approach best treats each mental health diagnosis.
At Portland Behavioral Therapy, Dr. Conterno utilizes concepts and approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and she specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). CBT and ACT have robust research designating them as “evidence-based treatments,” and Dr. Conterno has specific training and experience using these therapies to treat anxiety and OCD. Through the integration of mindfulness, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and other cognitive-behavioral interventions, Dr. Conterno helps her clients learn new skills to more effectively overcome mental health challenges and situational stressors.
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) is an effective evidenced-based intervention that helps clients increase their tolerance for discomfort as they work towards decreasing the things they commonly avoid. ERP is considered the “gold standard,” for treating OCD and it has significant research indicating it’s highly effective for treating many anxiety disorders such as social anxiety, health anxiety, and specific phobias. Dr. Conterno’s goal is to support her clients as they re-shape their thinking and behaviors so they can more consistently engage with life in ways that reflect their values.
As a client of PBT, therapy will include evaluating problematic avoidances, making plans to challenge unhelpful thinking and practice new behavioral patterns, and exploring personal values. Dr. Conterno will help you make the choices in line with your values – not choices driven by your anxiety. We will work together to help you feel empowered as you increasingly engage in the things that matter to you.