OCD & ERP Therapist
Julie Vierling, LMSW
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Patient Populations: Kids (5+), Teens, Adults
Education: University of Michigan School of Social Work (Ann Arbor)
Just “one last time,” you say to yourself. You have been telling yourself this same lie for years, hoping and praying that this time it will be true. Resisting the urge to check feels so impossible, but it seems like your only option is to give in. The OCD tells you that if you do the ritual just one more time, the anxiety will go away. Although you know logically that your fears are irrational, you cannot stop them, and feelings of panic and dread take over your mind. You crave just a moment of freedom from the grips of the obsession.
My name is Julie, and I am a licensed social worker with nearly 30 years of experience and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I also specialize in working with those who are experiencing other obsessive-type disorders such as trichotillomania, excoriation, and hoarding. By working together in therapy, your life will no longer be dominated by obsessive thoughts and compulsions. You will no longer feel helpless or as though your thoughts and feelings are controlling you. You will be able to leave the house without checking the doors or fear of contamination.
Who is your ideal client?
While I specialize in treatment of individuals with OCD via Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, I enjoy a varied caseload with different ages, sexual orientations, and other demographics as well as different diagnoses. I enjoy learning from my clients and sharing my knowledge with them. I see therapy as a two-way street and utilize a multi-layered approach to meet the individual needs of my patients. My philosophy is that therapy is not the only solution to the issues clients are facing, the solution has many facets and ways that lead to the same end goal.
What's something you wish people knew about therapy or the therapy process?
People seeking therapy are most successful if they feel connected to their therapist. In other words, if you are feeling as if your therapist does not understand you then moving on to a therapist who understands you better, is best for you and the therapist.
Why do you like being a therapist?
I enjoy assisting people in becoming their best personal self and realizing their fullest potential in life. I love working with people who are motivated and ready for change.
Besides being a therapist, what do you enjoy in your spare time?
My dearest past time is music and dance including musical theater. I enjoy going to a good show. I picked up bicycling in my later years and enjoy spending time outdoors on my road bike or indoors on my peloton.
What is your favorite book, podcast or mental health resource?
There are so many podcasts I enjoy! My favorites include Waking Up with Sam Harris and Invisibilia.