What does therapy at Onward Healing look like?

At Onward Healing, we specialize in evidence-based treatments for OCD, anxiety, BFRBs, tics, and trauma. Sessions are typically 50 minutes long and conducted via secure telehealth video. Treatment is collaborative — we work together to understand what's keeping you stuck and build skills to help you move forward. Depending on your goals, we may use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Habit Reversal Training (HRT), the ComB model, EMDR, or other structured approaches.

Do you accept insurance?

We are currently out-of-network with all insurance providers. This means we do not bill insurance directly. However, many clients are able to use out-of-network benefits to get partial reimbursement. We can provide a superbill (an itemized receipt) that you can submit to your insurance company. We recommend calling your insurance provider before starting to understand your out-of-network mental health benefits.

How does telehealth therapy work?

All sessions at Onward Healing are conducted via secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. Once you're scheduled, you'll receive a link to join the session from wherever you are — your home, office, or anywhere private. Telehealth is just as effective as in-person therapy for the conditions we treat, and many clients find it more convenient and accessible.

What states do you serve?

We are currently licensed to provide therapy in Pennsylvania (PA), Vermont (VT), and Florida (FL). You must be physically located in one of these states at the time of your session.

How long will I need therapy?

This varies widely depending on your goals, the severity of your symptoms, and your engagement with treatment. Some clients see significant improvement in 12-16 sessions; others prefer ongoing support over a longer period. We'll discuss your goals at the outset and check in regularly on your progress.

What is ERP therapy, and is it right for me?

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold-standard treatment for OCD and certain anxiety disorders. It involves gradually facing feared situations or thoughts (exposure) while resisting compulsions or avoidance behaviors (response prevention). It sounds challenging — and it can be — but it's also highly effective. We move at a pace that feels manageable, and you're never pushed into anything you're not ready for.

What are BFRBs, and can therapy help?

Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) are repetitive, self-directed behaviors like hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking (excoriation disorder), nail biting, and cheek chewing. These behaviors are often automatic and can cause significant distress or physical harm. Evidence-based treatments like Habit Reversal Training (HRT) and the Comprehensive Behavioral (ComB) model have strong research support and can lead to meaningful reduction in urges and behaviors.

How do I get started?

The easiest first step is to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. This call gives us a chance to learn about what you're struggling with, answer any questions you have, and see if we're a good fit. There's no pressure and no commitment. You can book directly through our website or reach out by email.

How do I know if I have Pure-O or just anxiety?

Pure-O and generalized anxiety often look similar from the outside, but the mechanism is different. OCD obsessions are intrusive, ego-dystonic, and met with compulsive resolution-seeking. Generalized anxiety tends to be worry about realistic future problems and doesn't usually involve mental ritualizing. A consult is the fastest way to know.

I've been in therapy for years. Why didn't anyone catch this?

Pure-O is under-recognized in general mental health training. Talk therapy can actively worsen it by engaging with the content of obsessions. This isn't a failure on your part - it's a gap in the field that's slowly closing.

Can ERP work for relationship OCD if I'm not sure I want to stay in the relationship?

Yes. We treat the OCD first. ROCD is built on the demand for certainty about the relationship - once that demand is reduced, you can actually evaluate the relationship clearly. Many ROCD clients stay; some don't. Either way, the decision becomes possible.

Will ERP make me lose the things I care about?

No. Common Pure-O fears include 'if I stop ruminating, I'll do something terrible' or 'if I stop checking my orientation, I'll lose my identity.' Treatment doesn't change your values or identity. It stops your brain from auditing them constantly.

Do you take insurance?

No. Sessions are $175. A superbill is available for out-of-network reimbursement.

How long does treatment usually take?

12-20 sessions for focused Pure-O is typical. Complex presentations with multiple co-occurring concerns may take longer.

Pure-O Therapy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Onward Healing Therapy is a private-pay specialty telehealth practice serving adults in Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Florida. Founder Nina Eberly, PhD, LCSW. The content on this site is for educational purposes and does not constitute clinical advice or establish a therapist-client relationship. If you are in immediate distress, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Pure-O Therapy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

You Don’t Have to Keep Living Like This

OCD can feel constant, convincing, and exhausting — but it’s also highly treatable.

With the right support, things can begin to feel quieter, more manageable, and more in your control.

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