Intensive OCD Training: From Diagnosis to Multimodal Treatment

Dates: 8 Fridays – February 7, 14, 21, 28, and March 7, 14, 21, 28

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Where: Zoom

Investment: $500 or 2 payments of $250, Early Bird Special $450 - register before January 1st!

Overview
This training equips clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), including its symptoms, causes, and a range of effective treatment approaches. Participants will develop skills in diagnosing OCD, recognizing its subtypes, and implementing evidence-based modalities such as Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Metacognitive Therapy to support effective treatment outcomes.

Participants will learn how to:

1. Describe the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and differential diagnoses associated with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
2. Conduct a comprehensive assessment and diagnose individuals with OCD using empirically supported measures.
3. Describe psychological, pharmacological treatments, and alternative methods for treatment-resistant OCD (e.g., transcranial magnetic stimulation, deep brain stimulation, and surgery).
4. Describe the various subtypes of OCD, how they manifest, and strategies for effective treatment.
5. Describe principles, rationale, and goals of Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP) for the treatment of OCD.
6. Assess client readiness for ERP therapy.
7. Implement ERP techniques to reduce symptoms of OCD.
8. Prepare and implement various types of exposures in ERP (e.g., in-vivo, imaginal, and interoceptive exposures).
9. Demonstrate the use of interoceptive therapy.
10. Construct and implement an in-vivo exposure hierarchy.
11. Conduct imaginal exposure to feared consequences.
12. Demonstrate use of ERP in the treatment of OCD subtypes.
13. Apply cognitive skills to treat common distorted thinking patterns in individuals with OCD.
14. Identify and effectively modify a patient's core beliefs.
15. Address common pitfalls and client treatment-resistant behaviors in the treatment of OCD.
16. Formulate treatment termination and relapse prevention plans with clients.
17. Discuss how and when to modify ERP techniques to tailor therapy to the individual (e.g., developmental issues, comorbid conditions).
18. Employ adjunct therapies to enhance OCD treatment, including:

• Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT): Addressing inferential confusion and obsessive doubt.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Utilizing values-driven strategies to reduce OCD-related distress.
• Mindfulness-Based Approaches: Supporting clients in building awareness and reducing compulsions.
• Metacognitive Therapy (MCT): Challenging maladaptive beliefs about thinking and promoting adaptive strategies.

This activity has been approved for 12 hours of credit by the Board of Psychology (Board Assigned Log Number: 202511.170) and is pending approval by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy (BBHT), the Board of Social Work, and the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT).

Most state licensing boards accept courses approved by other state boards; however, we recommend checking your state’s specific requirements to ensure compliance.

About Your Trainer:

Erin Venker, MA, LPCC

Erin Venker is a licensed professional clinical counselor and the founder of the OCD & Anxiety Center of Minnesota (OCDMN). With nearly a decade of experience specializing in the treatment of OCD and anxiety disorders, Erin combines evidence-based practices like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT) with a compassionate approach.

Diagnosed with OCD at the age of 12, Erin brings a deeply personal understanding of the challenges individuals face in navigating this disorder. Her journey from struggling with misdiagnosis and ineffective treatments to achieving recovery inspired her to change careers and dedicate her life to helping others overcome OCD.

Today, Erin is committed to raising awareness about OCD, providing high-quality care, and fostering a supportive, inclusive space for individuals and families. Outside of work, she enjoys creating art, spending time with her husband and pets, and exploring life in Saint Paul.

Event Venue

Online