If you are searching for information about OCD, you may be feeling tired, worried or unsure what to read first. This page is a short starting point. It points you to our OCD guides, explains how Eden Valley approaches OCD, and tells you how to reach us.
A quick orientation
OCD stands for obsessive compulsive disorder. In general terms, it involves unwanted thoughts, images or urges (obsessions) and the things a person does to try to get relief from them (compulsions). One well-known treatment approach is Exposure and Response Prevention, or ERP, which involves facing feared situations on purpose while resisting the urge to do the usual compulsion.
This is a general overview, not medical advice. A licensed clinician can tell you what applies to your situation. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
Two things are worth knowing at the outset. First, having an unwanted thought does not make someone a bad person, and many people have them. Second, OCD is a recognized condition that clinicians treat, and asking for help is a reasonable step, not an overreaction.
If you are a parent or caregiver, you may be trying to work out whether what you see is typical worry or something more. A licensed clinician can help you sort that out.
Our OCD guides
Each guide goes into one topic in depth, so we do not repeat that detail here. Pick the one that matches your question.
- What is ERP? Start here if you have heard of Exposure and Response Prevention and want to know what it involves.
- Intrusive thoughts Read this if unwanted thoughts are what brought you here.
- Finding OCD care in Maine Use this if you are looking for care in Maine.
How Eden Valley works with OCD
Eden Valley, the clinical program of Revolution Youth, Inc., offers OCD treatment and anxiety treatment programs. Our anxiety program is a one-on-one program of 8 to 16 weeks built on graded exposure.
ERP is a particular strength of our team. Dr. Savannah Lord, our Clinical Director, provides ERP and works with adults navigating OCD and phobias. Our child and teen therapist Julia Patkin works with individuals ages 11 and older and has extensive training in ERP for OCD and phobias.
You can see the full list of what we offer on our services page.
A group for people who get it
Some people find that talking with others who share their experience takes the edge off the isolation. Eden Valley runs The Second Guess Society, a group with a structured, co-created and predictable format. It meets every other Tuesday, and members choose and nominate each session's topic. The topics include OCD, obsessions, compulsions, phobias, irrational fears and exposure therapy.
- 8 to 12 participants
- In person and virtual options, for people in Maine and Vermont
- Private pay, $40 per session
Details and sign-up are on our groups page.
Many adults and teens come to us after months or years of managing things on their own. If that sounds familiar, you are not behind. A first appointment is a chance to describe what is going on and learn what the options are. You can also ask about ERP directly and what a course of it would involve for your situation.
Taking the next step
You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Call Eden Valley at (802) 333-0112 or use the contact page, and tell us what you are looking for. Appointments are in person at 95 College St, Burlington, Vermont.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I start if I think I have OCD?
Begin with our guide on what ERP is or on intrusive thoughts, then contact a licensed clinician for an assessment.
Does Eden Valley offer ERP therapy in Vermont?
Yes. Dr. Savannah Lord provides ERP, and Julia Patkin has extensive training in ERP for OCD and phobias.
Is there an OCD support group in Vermont?
Eden Valley runs The Second Guess Society, with in-person and virtual groups for Maine and Vermont. It is private pay at $40 per session.
Where can I find OCD care in Maine?
See our guide on finding OCD care in Maine.
