Dr. Steven Pence

Dr. Pence practices evidence-based treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Social Phobia, Trichotillomania, Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, and Selective Mutism. Dr. Pence’s comprehensive treatment programs include a 2-hour medical diagnostic assessment, evidence-based treatment of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), habit reversal training (HRT), cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, behavioral activation, and psychoeducation for families. In addition to weekly CBT therapy, Dr. Pence offers intensive outpatient treatment programs and telemedicine. 95% of Dr. Pence's patients have OCD and/or related anxiety disorders and Dr. Pence treats patients from many different states and countries through his intensive outpatient program. A two-hour comprehensive research-supported psychological evaluation is provided to all new patients. The purposes of this extensive assessment is to determine accurate diagnoses and to provide patients with an evidenced-based treatment plan. As part of the initial evaluation, patients are assessed for all psychological conditions, psychological comorbidity, as well as information about their medical, developmental, biological, social, family history and educational background. The impact of the stressors or traumas on the developmental and/or maintenance of anxiety or other symptoms need to be thoroughly assessed. Dr. Pence assesses all patients based on DSM-5 criteria and utilizes appropriate assessment tools as needed. Lastly, the comprehensive psychological assessment is helpful in tracking patient progress.