Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented approach that aims to influence dysfunctional thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Individuals are first taught to monitor thoughts, assumptions, beliefs and behaviors that are related to their negative emotions.

They are then helped to identify those thoughts and behaviors that are dysfunctional, inaccurate, or simply unhelpful. Ultimately, the individual learns to replace or transcend these dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors with more realistic and useful ones.

Research has proved CBT to be effective for the treatment of many clinical issues such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders. The therapy is often brief and time-limited and can be used in individual therapy as well as group settings.

Dr. Kristen Mulcahy, Director of CBI, conducts or supervises all therapy sessions. To learn more about Dr. Mulcahy, click here.


Areas of Expertise

Areas we specialize in include:

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder
• Trichotillomania
• Hoarding
• Eating Disorders
• Panic Disorder
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder

For the treatment of OCD, behavior therapy, specifically exposure and response prevention (ERP), is taught. This involves gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking stimuli and situations in order to promote desensitization and the discouraging of compulsive or ritualistic behaviors, which ultimately maintain OCD. Sessions may be conducted in a variety of settings, including public places, the individual’s home, and any other locations specific to the problem. Cognitive therapy techniques are also taught to help the individual examine illogical or irrational beliefs (i.e. the need to be perfect or the need for certainty). These concepts are made simple and fun for children, while parents are taught how to respond to their child’s OCD symptoms in the most appropriate and effective ways.

For the treatment of eating disorders, a combination of cognitive and behavioral techniques are taught to help the individual challenge irrational beliefs as well as increase tolerance to uncomfortable feelings. Nutritional counseling is often recommended to address any nutritional deficiencies as well as develop and modify appropriate healthy eating plans throughout the course of therapy. Family therapy to teach collaborative problem solving skills may also be recommended.

For the treatment of Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hypochondriasis, and Trichotillomania, a combination of cognitive and behavioral strategies are taught in order to help the individual increase awareness, challenge irrational beliefs, as well as increase tolerance to uncomfortable feelings.

For the treatment of Panic Disorder, a cognitive-behavioral approach is taught which emphasizes breathing, relaxation, and mindfulness based strategies, cognitive strategies to challenge irrational beliefs, and behavioral exercises to increase tolerance to uncomfortable feelings and situations that may provoke anxiety or panic.

For the treatment of Hoarding, a combination of office and home-based therapy is generally recommended. Treatment involves helping the sufferer challenge irrational beliefs that may be contributing to the problem, learn organizational and other executive functioning skills that may be lacking, and devise a plan to clear out the cluttered space.


Intensive Therapy Programs

Intensive therapy programs may be customized for individuals suffering from severe OCD and/or OCD spectrum disorders. Programs generally consist of intensive cognitive behavior therapy sessions 3-6x weekly, family therapy as needed, and support group meetings for the sufferer and family.

Yoga, meditation instruction, nutritional/health counseling, and chiropractic for nervous system support are also available for a holistic approach to treatment.

Accommodations can be found for those traveling from out-of –town for extended periods of time.


OCD Support Group

Support group meetings are held at CBI the first Thursday of every month at 7pm. Meetings are appropriate for anyone struggling with OCD or an OCD spectrum disorder and for the parents, spouses, or friends of someone struggling with one of these issues. All meetings are led by Dr. Kristen Mulcahy.


Live OCD Free

Live OCD Free is an app currently available for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad. Created by Dr. Kristen Mulcahy, this app guides both adult and child sufferers through ERP for OCD and other OCD spectrum disorders.

Preliminary research results indicate Live OCD Free may reduce OCD symptoms in as few as 3 weeks. It is recommended as a self-help tool for those who do not have access to a specialist and as an adjunct to therapy to make your treatment more efficient and, therefore, more cost-effective.

For more information, please visit www.LiveOCDFree.com.


Peace Out

Peace Out is an 8-Week stress management group for teen girls (ages 13-18) combining yoga and mindfulness based Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Group meetings include 45mins of yoga flow and 45mins of group discussion. Each week focuses on a different theme of how to develop:

• Self Acceptance & Compassion
• Mindfulness
• Inner Strength
• Balance
• Peace of Mind
• Gratitude
• Trust
• Philanthropy


Dr. Kristen Mulcahy & Nicole Journalist, RYT co-lead each group.


For more information or to set up an appointment at CBI, please contact us at (508) 457-3160. Telephone as well as Skype consults are available as needed.