Sarah Schwarz

My name is Dr. Sarah Schwarz and I’m a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY.0004882) based in Denver, Colorado. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, particularly Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help my clients make therapeutic gains and significant life changes.

My approach

My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as these modalities help me and the client build a shared understanding of their reality, and allow us to work together to chart a path forward.

My focus

My specialty area is treating anxiety disorders, more specifically Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I have had extensive training with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). You might be familiar with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), which encompasses various therapeutic approaches used by mental health professionals to address psychological disorders. For treating OCD, a key form of CBT is exposure and response prevention (ERP). In ERP, the "exposure" part involves facing the thoughts, images, objects, and situations that trigger your anxiety or obsessions. The "response prevention" aspect involves refraining from engaging in compulsive behaviors when these triggers arise. Initially, a therapist will guide you through this process, but eventually, you'll learn to perform ERP exercises on your own to manage your symptoms. Over time, this approach aims to "retrain your brain" so that the objects of your obsessions no longer seem threatening.

My communication style

My communication style is genuine, calm, and interpersonal. I strive to help my clients feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment.