Approach to Therapy

Olivia’s approach to treatment is warm, encouraging, and grounded in authenticity. She prioritizes building a strong therapeutic relationship and getting to know each client as a whole person, not just their struggles. Olivia deeply respects that each client is the expert on their own life, experiences, and identities, and works collaboratively to help them move toward a life guided by their values—rather than fear. 

Olivia is especially passionate about supporting children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, and anxiety related disorders. Her lived experience with OCD and anxiety strengthens her ability to support clients navigating similar challenges with empathy, insight, and genuine human connection. She believes in creating a goal-oriented treatment plan in which she provides education, teaches clients skills to manage anxiety and face fears. She also believes in including supportive others in the treatment process as well as providers.

Olivia integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help clients build a new relationship with anxiety—one grounded in self-compassion and a willingness to face discomfort. Clients gradually approach feared experiences, opening the door to a more flexible and freeing way of living. Olivia’s goal is to support clients in moving toward their values while building confidence in their ability to coexist with discomfort. She often reminds clients, “you are so much more capable than what your thoughts tell you!”

Experience and Training

Olivia earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Loyola University and went on to earn her master’s degree in clinical psychology from Benedictine University. Prior to the OCD & Anxiety Center, she worked as an individual therapist in a private practice supporting clients struggling with anxiety disorders, depression, grief, and life transitions.

More About Olivia

Olivia was born and raised in the western suburbs of Illinois. In her free time, Olivia enjoys snuggling up with her dog, reading a good book, practicing yoga, and painting with watercolor. Olivia feels most centered when she is outside hiking with her family and enjoying the beauty of nature.