SERVICES

Individual Psychotherapy for Adults

CBT FOR DEPRESSION

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy based on the theory that changing our beliefs and actions leads to changes in our emotions.  By increasing awareness of the connections between our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, individuals learn how to make changes in how they perceive life events and choose to respond behaviorally, ultimately resulting in an increased sense of self-control and improvement in mood. 

CBT FOR ANXIETY 

            Exposure Therapy and Programmed Practice: In treating individuals with anxiety disorders, unlike most therapists, Dr. Bricker conducts imaginal and in-vivo exposure therapy, within her office and in real-world settings, providing empirically-supported treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (Exposure and Response Prevention), Panic Disorder, Social Phobia, and numerous specific phobias (e.g., fear of public speaking, flying, bridges, water, heights, elevators, etc.).  Exposure Therapy is a treatment which reduces anxiety by exposing an individual to a feared situation for a prolonged period of time. After repeated contact with the fearful situation, there is a reduction in anxiety and the fear loses its ability to elicit an anxious response.  

           Relaxation Training: Relaxation training is taught to decrease general physical or cognitive arousal that often co-occurs with stress and anxiety disorders.  There are many forms of relaxation training such as deep breathing, imagery and progressive muscle relaxation (tensing and then relaxing various muscle groups such as the face, neck, shoulders, arms and legs).