Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) presents in a wide range of subtypes and intensities—and effective treatment requires skill, sensitivity, and a deep understanding of the underlying mechanisms. In this compelling Podcourse, I’m joined by Dr. Johann D’Souza, a clinical psychologist and OCD specialist, to explore the science and art of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy through the lens of traditional values.

This episode contains hypothetical scenarios and examples that some listeners may find explicit or sensitive. These discussions are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to offend or shock. Listener discretion is advised.

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Dr. D’Souza offers a comprehensive and practical breakdown of how ERP works, how to tailor it to the individual client, and how to apply it across various OCD subtypes—including contamination, harm, scrupulosity, and taboo fears. He also shares how integrating a values-based framework into ERP can build trust with clients and support long-term recovery.

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This episode will equip mental health professionals with an in-depth understanding of how to design ERP hierarchies, conduct imaginal exposures ethically and effectively, and overcome treatment barriers like poor insight, family accommodation, and avoidance. You’ll also learn how to use storytelling, mindfulness, and exposure mapping to optimize outcomes and empower clients to become their own therapists.

If you’re a clinician looking to expand your OCD treatment toolkit and appreciate the importance of aligning therapy with client values, this Podcourse is for you.

Remember, while you can listen to the show for free, those seeking continuing education credits can purchase them here. 

Learning Objectives:

• Develop client-centered exposure and response prevention (ERP) exercises for at least four OCD subtypes, design response prevention strategies for common compulsions, and create effective ERP hierarchies to guide treatment progression.
• Apply principles of graduated exposure and response prevention to optimize client outcomes, while evaluating factors that contribute to less effective treatment, such as family accommodation and overvalued ideation.
• Differentiate between OCD subtypes and assess how ERP can be tailored to address specific obsessional fears, while demonstrating strategies to enhance client adherence and long-term success.

About Dr. Johann D'Souza:

Dr. Johann D'Souza is a clinical psychologist based in Houston, Texas, specializing in the treatment of anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). He is committed to integrating modern psychological practices with traditional values, ensuring that therapy aligns with each individual's core beliefs.

Dr. D'Souza's academic journey is both diverse and distinguished. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Theology from the University of Dallas, reflecting a strong foundation in spiritual studies. He furthered his expertise with a Master of Arts in General Psychology from Boston University and another Master's in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston, where he was honored with a Presidential Fellowship. He completed his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Houston.

His clinical training includes a predoctoral internship at the Baylor College of Medicine's OCD Specialty Clinic and a postdoctoral fellowship focusing on OCD and related disorders at Psychology Houston. Additionally, Dr. D'Souza serves as a Research Affiliate with The Human Flourishing Program at Harvard University, underscoring his dedication to advancing mental health research.

In his practice, Dr. D'Souza emphasizes transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. He collaborates with clients to understand their thoughts and emotions, employing scientifically supported strategies to promote peace and focus. His guiding principles include professional excellence, the inherent dignity of human life, the natural complementarity of male and female, and the beauty of chaste love.

Through Values First Therapy, Dr. D'Souza aims to build a network of practices across the U.S. that offer science-based therapy aligned with traditional values, striving to change the world by transforming the field of psychology both professionally and ethically.

Disclosure Statement for Dr. Johann D’Souza; Financial: Dr. Johann D’Souza receives a speaking honorarium from Mustard Consulting LLC.

Learn more about Dr. Johann D’Souza and his work at Values First Therapy.

About Lisa: Lisa Mustard, MPH, EdS, LMFT has worked for a college counseling center, addiction recovery center and has been working with a military branch for the past 14 years. Lisa is a lover of all things fitness and health, a Podcaster and Coach.

Continuing Education Contact Hours:

Mustard Consulting, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7061. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Mustard Consulting, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

Completion Requirements:

To obtain your certificate of completion, you must listen entirely to the audio, pass the Podcourse completion quiz and complete a satisfaction survey.

Refund policy: No refunds are provided for self-study courses.

Disclosure Statement for Dr. Johann D'Souza; Financial: Dr. Johann D'Souza receives financial compensation from Mustard Consulting, LLC for this speaking engagement.

The Therapy Show with Lisa Mustard is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with your own healthcare provider regarding any personal health or medical conditions.

Need continuing education contact hours? If so, then be sure to check out my $5 Podcourses. Check out the other CE courses - Holistic Counseling Bundle, the Art of Breathwork and How to Resolve the Parent Trap!

Connect with Lisa: Website

Thank you for tuning into The Therapy Show. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode.

Need continuing education contact hours? If so, then be sure to check out my $5 Podcourses. Check out the other CE courses - Holistic Counseling Bundle, the Art of Breathwork and How to Resolve the Parent Trap!

Learn more about Dr. Johann D’Souza and his work at Values First Therapy.