Obsessive-compulsive disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, CA

My therapy style is compassionate and supportive. Clients find me engaging, warm and friendly. I've been a licensed psychotherapist since 1987 and I have experience with a variety of clients from differing age groups, ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. During my career I've helped clients with relationship challenges, the expression and management of emotion, and improving their quality of life.

I'm an open minded individual and welcome any topics in treatment

Pamela Hughes received her Undergraduate Degree in Psychology and her Masters Degree

in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University, Costa Mesa, California.

Pamela has worked with individuals, couples and families improving their relationships

using the Collaborative Communication Skills as an Instructor. Pamela specializes in Addictions, ADHD, Family Systems and Hoarding.

I'm Deidre, and for over two decades I've helped people move through some of life's most painful and disorienting transitions — loss, illness, divorce, relationship struggles, aging, and the quiet fears that come with facing mortality. My clients often tell me that what they needed most wasn't advice — it was someone who truly listened, who could help them make sense of what they were feeling and find a path forward. That's what I'm here to do!

My work is grounded in behavioral therapy, and a firm belief that people can change. I prefer a flexible and collaborative approach that evolves as we work together. Though the foundation of my work is behavioral, I develop integrated treatment plans for each new client, drawing on other evidence-based modalities and new research.

I am a board certified, doctoral prepared PMHNP. I completed my post graduate at National University in Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I earned my DNP from Azusa Pacific University and graduated from CSUSB MSN program. I have been a faculty at CSUSB since 2014. Extensively trained and a certified Trauma-Informed specialist. I diagnose and treat mental disorders including medication-assisted treatment along with counseling for chemical dependency and substance use disorders.

Your goals are most important to me, but I do recommend goals when needed. I accept you just as you are. I will work together with you to achieve an improved quality of life. I have over 30 years experience working in mental health counseling, and 10 1/2 years as a licensed provider. In that time, I have learned to use a variety of modalities. I tailor the type of therapy to my client and to his/her needs, so I might introduce more than one type during our work together. The issues I work with most include depression, anxiety, and trauma, I am also certified in addiction recovery, and neurodivergent issues.

I'm Mary, and I want you to know that whatever's bringing you here — anxiety that won't quiet down, a relationship that's fraying, grief you can't shake, or patterns you keep repeating despite your best efforts — you don't have to figure it out alone. I've worked with individuals, couples, families, and teens facing some of life's hardest chapters, and I genuinely believe that the right support at the right time changes everything.

I'm California-licensed and offer telehealth sessions statewide, which means flexible, private care from wherever you're most comfortable. I accept Aetna, Blue Shield of California, Cigna, and Carelon Behavioral Health, and I'm happy to help you understand your benefits before your first session.