According to the professional literature, 1–3% of the population suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Clinicians in the field would argue that many more go undiagnosed. OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) that feel unwanted and inconsistent with the person’s values, intentions, and identity. In response, individuals perform various rituals or behaviours (compulsions) - such as repetitive actions, avoidance, or mental acts — in an attempt to neutralize the obsessions. While these compulsions may bring temporary relief, the effect is short-lived.

In most cases, OCD symptoms do not resolve on their own and often worsen over time. Many people learn to live with the disorder, despite its significant impact on their quality of life and personal goals.

The good news is that today there are highly effective treatments for OCD.

I had the privilege of being mentored by Dr. Elna Yadin, an internationally recognized expert in OCD. Many years ago, I asked her what draws her to work with people suffering from OCD. “Michael,” she said, “I see talented and caring individuals with a chain tied to their leg, holding them back. And I get to tell them: here’s the key. You can unlock the chain and live a much fuller and better life.”

Years of experience in this field have led me to fully agree with her.

I also specialize in treating related conditions, including Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Hoarding Disorder, Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling Disorder), and Excoriation Disorder (Skin Picking Disorder). These disorders can cause significant suffering and are often major barriers to achieving a meaningful life.

Throughout my clinical career, I have worked with a wide range of individuals who have experienced trauma. This includes, among others, men who were sexually abused in childhood (British Columbia Association of Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse); bereaved parents and siblings (Ministry of Defence, Israel); and individuals recovering from physical trauma (OrionHealth Pain Clinic, Canada). Most recently, I worked intensively with evacuees from Kibbutz Be’eri, one of the Israeli communities most severely affected by the October 7, 2023 attack.

In my therapeutic work, I’ve witnessed firsthand how traumatic events can deeply affect the psyche, often in ways we are not fully conscious of. I have also seen the remarkable capacity of people to recover from trauma and the resilience that lies within.

I am trained in two leading trauma treatments recognized by health ministries worldwide. I had the honour of being trained by Dr. Edna Foa in Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy. Dr. Foa is the founder of the method and one of the most influential figures in modern psychology and trauma research. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

In my clinical work, I strive to tailor the treatment approach to the individual needs of each client, applying these methods with flexibility and drawing from additional therapeutic modalities when appropriate.

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the primary method I use in treating anxiety disorders. It is typically a short- to medium-term therapy (usually 12–30 sessions), focused on reducing the intensity and frequency of anxiety symptoms.

Anxiety can be a deeply distressing experience and may significantly hinder a person’s daily functioning and ability to pursue their goals.

Depending on the client’s needs and personality, I may also integrate other approaches into the treatment, such as Mindfulness, EMDR, and psychodynamic therapy.