OCD

For children dealing with OCD, Shiva Movafaghian uses a similarly personalized approach. OCD is characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that are performed to alleviate anxiety. This disorder can be incredibly distressing for children, often causing significant disruptions in daily life. Shiva’s treatment plan for OCD typically includes exposure and response prevention (ERP), a highly effective form of cognitive-behavioral therapy. ERP involves gradually exposing the child to anxiety-provoking situations while preventing the compulsive behaviors that usually follow. Shiva guides this process with great care, ensuring that the child feels supported and safe at every step. Her compassionate approach helps children develop the resilience needed to manage their anxiety and break free from the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.

Shiva’s training in solution-focused therapy also comes into play when working with children with OCD. This strengths-based approach encourages children to focus on what they can do, rather than what they cannot. By celebrating small victories and setting achievable goals, Shiva helps children feel a sense of accomplishment and motivation. This approach not only builds confidence but also fosters a proactive mindset, allowing children to feel more in control of their thoughts and behaviors. Shiva’s calm and reassuring presence creates an environment where children can face their fears and learn new ways to cope with intrusive thoughts.

Understanding that both ADHD and OCD can have ripple effects on family dynamics, Shiva places a strong emphasis on parental involvement. She provides parent coaching to equip families with the tools and strategies needed to support their child’s progress. For ADHD, this might involve setting up structured routines and positive reinforcement systems at home. For OCD, Shiva teaches parents how to respond calmly and supportively to their child’s distress, while also reinforcing the therapeutic techniques practiced in sessions. Workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions help parents understand the neurological and psychological underpinnings of these disorders, empowering them to create a stable and nurturing home environment.

Shiva’s approach is grounded in her understanding of neuroscience and brain plasticity, which informs every aspect of her work. She believes that the brain has the capacity to change and adapt, and she uses this knowledge to inspire hope and resilience in her clients. Her therapies are designed to harness the brain’s natural ability to form new connections, making lasting progress achievable. Whether working one-on-one with a child or involving the whole family, Shiva’s compassionate and evidence-based methods have helped many children with OCD lead happier, more fulfilling lives.