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) and Vermont (VT). 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.

Will I have to do exposures that bring on panic attacks?

Yes, intentionally and gradually. This is the mechanism of treatment. The exposures are paced collaboratively and you are never thrown into the deep end. The discomfort is the teacher: tolerating it without engaging in safety behaviors is what teaches your brain panic is not dangerous.

Do I need medication for panic disorder?

Some adults benefit from medication (typically SSRIs) alongside exposure work, especially when symptoms are severe. Medication tends to manage symptoms while you take it; CBT and exposure work tends to produce lasting change. Many do well with one, the other, or both.

Is panic disorder the same as anxiety disorder?

Panic disorder is one type of anxiety disorder, distinct from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, and specific phobias. It often co-occurs with agoraphobia, the fear of situations where escape might be hard.

How long does panic disorder treatment take?

Most adults see real symptom reduction within 12 to 16 sessions of weekly therapy. Severe cases or those with significant agoraphobia may take longer.

Can telehealth work for panic disorder?

Yes. Multiple clinical trials support telehealth-delivered CBT for panic. For some clients, telehealth is actually preferred because they can do exposures from their actual environment, including the car or the spaces they have been avoiding.

What if my panic attacks feel like a heart attack?

This is one of the most common panic symptoms. If you have not yet had a medical workup, get one to rule out cardiac causes. Once cardiac causes are ruled out, the catastrophic interpretation of the sensations is one of the things treatment directly addresses.

Panic Disorder Therapist Serving All of 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.

Panic Disorder Therapist Serving All of 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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