Hello, I'm a licensed professional therapist practicing in California since 2003. I have such respect and admiration for my clients because seeking therapy is very courageous. My goal for your therapy journey is to develop a relationship where you can feel trust so that you can become your authentic self. My therapeutic style is very eclectic and versatile. I want to provide a warm environment for you to feel better and grow. I specialize in treating you as a person and starting in a place where you are comfortable while adjusting to your needs as we move forward. I have expertise in treating depression/anxiety disorders, grief/loss, infertility, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it." -Helen Keller
In our first session together, we will focus on getting to know each other and setting the stage for a trusting and safe environment. We will explore your symptoms, goals, and create a treatment focus tailored to your needs.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As a provider, I always focus on a non-judgmental and gentle approach to my clients. I understand the courage it takes to participate in therapy and I feel honored and privileged to be witness to your story.
About Michelle Kurtz
Appointments
Virtual
My treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I’ve been using CBT in my practice for many years. It’s helped dozens of clients challenge reoccurring thoughts and manage their anxiety and depression. We’ll use CBT to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other. We’ll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a less anxious and depressed life.
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP)
I'm honored to be a part of your journey towards managing and overcoming the challenges you're facing. Today, I'd like to introduce you to a therapeutic approach known as Exposure and Response Prevention, or ERP.
ERP is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to address anxiety and related disorders, particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder. It's based on the idea that facing our fears in a systematic and controlled manner can lead to a reduction in anxiety over time.
In our sessions, we'll work together to identify specific thoughts, images, or situations that trigger anxiety or distress. Through a gradual and collaborative process, we'll develop a hierarchy of these triggers, starting with those that induce the least anxiety and progressing to those that are more challenging.
The exposure part of ERP involves facing these fears in a safe and controlled environment. It might involve imagining a feared situation, looking at pictures, or even directly confronting the situation when appropriate. The key is to remain in the situation long enough for the anxiety to decrease on its own without engaging in the usual rituals or compulsions.
The response prevention component is equally crucial. We'll work on resisting the urge to engage in the usual rituals or avoidance behaviors that temporarily reduce anxiety. This is fundamental in breaking the cycle of anxiety and compulsive behaviors.
While ERP can be challenging, it has proven to be highly effective in helping individuals regain control over their lives. I want to emphasize that we will proceed at a pace that feels manageable for you, and your comfort and well-being are my top priorities.
If at any point you have concerns or questions, please feel free to share them. Our work together is a partnership, and I'm here to provide support and guidance throughout the process.
Thank you for entrusting me to be a part of your journey towards a life with greater freedom from anxiety. Let's get started.
