Kate Degenhardt PhD

My practice specializes in treating OCD and related disorders, comprising approximately 80% of my caseload. I have treated over 100 individuals with OCD and related conditions, including contamination, harm, scrupulosity, and health-related obsessions. I use evidence-based approaches, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), tailored to meet the needs of children, teens, and adults. In addition, I provide support for co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health challenges. My goal is to empower clients to regain control, reduce distress, and build resilience.

I specialize in treating OCD and co-occurring disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), trichotillomania, perinatal OCD, scrupulosity, and perfectionism. My treatment structure is individualized and evidence-based, primarily using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) integrated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). For clients with additional needs, such as ASD or body-focused repetitive behaviors, I tailor interventions to address overlapping challenges like sensory sensitivities, social anxiety, or self-esteem issues. My approach emphasizes collaboration, ensuring treatment aligns with the client’s values and goals, while creating a safe, compassionate environment to foster growth and long-term resilience.

I am a licensed psychologist (Oregon) with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I have extensive training in treating OCD and related disorders, including one year as an advanced practicum student at Seattle Children’s Hospital OCD Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and a one-year postdoctoral fellowship at Portland Psychotherapy in the Anxiety Clinic. My training includes evidence-based approaches, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), tailored to individuals across the lifespan. I also have experience addressing OCD in primary care contexts, including perinatal, pediatric, and adult populations, and have completed specialized workshops and supervision focused on OCD treatment.

My practice is committed to being an inclusive and antiracist space, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who are neurodivergent and part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I strive to provide culturally responsive care, informed by my training at the University of Washington and postdoctoral work in community mental health, where I served underserved and marginalized populations. I aim to create a safe, affirming environment where clients can explore the intersection of OCD, mental health, and their unique identities, fostering empowerment and meaningful growth. My approach emphasizes equity, understanding, and respect for all.

I completed an APA-accredited internship at the University of Washington Department of Psychiatry, where I worked exclusively with underserved and marginalized populations, gaining extensive training in culturally responsive care. During my postdoctoral fellowship in community mental health, I provided therapy to clients from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. My education also included specific coursework in cultural competency, and my ongoing professional development emphasizes equity and inclusion. Additionally, my lived experience as a Latina (Mexican origin) with a multiracial family informs my understanding of the unique challenges faced by multicultural populations, enhancing my ability to provide empathetic, individualized care.