Mission Statement
OCD Missouri is a non-profit organization and proud affiliate of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF). Our primary goal is to support the mission of the IOCDF by fostering a compassionate and inclusive community for individuals and their loved ones who are affected by Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We are dedicated to providing valuable resources, generating awareness, and advocating for those living with OCD in the state of Missouri.
Objectives
1. Building a Supportive Community: We aim to create a welcoming and understanding environment where individuals with OCD and their loved ones can connect, share experiences, and find solace in knowing they are not alone. Through various initiatives and events, we foster a sense of belonging and provide a platform for mutual support.
2. Resource Provision: We are committed to offering a comprehensive range of resources that empower individuals and their families to better understand OCD and navigate the challenges it presents. By providing access to educational and treatment resources, we strive to equip our community with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage OCD effectively.
3. Raising Awareness: Recognizing the importance of eliminating misconceptions surrounding OCD, we actively promote awareness within Missouri. Through targeted campaigns, educational outreach, and collaboration with local institutions, we work towards reducing stigma, fostering empathy, and enhancing public understanding of OCD as a legitimate and treatable condition.
At OCD Missouri, we firmly believe that by coming together, advocating for change, and offering unwavering support, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by OCD in our community and beyond.
Board Members and Officers
Beth Brawley, LPC, Co-Founder & Co-President
Beth Brawley LPC (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor and runs a group practice in St. Louis specializing in the evidence-based treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders, and body-focused repetitive behaviors utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE). She is also a graduate of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) through the IOCDF. In addition to her clinical work, Beth is adjunct faculty at the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, teaching Cognitive-Behavior Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention classes. She regularly presents on these topics both locally and at national conferences. Beth can be reached at [email protected].
Shanda Curiel, PsyD, Co-Founder & Co-President
Dr. Curiel (she/hers) is a Licensed Psychologist originally trained as a generalist treating the entire lifespan in a variety of settings since 2004; however, in 2011 she narrowed her scope of practice to specialize in the treatment of pediatric and adult Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Anxiety Disorders. Shanda has received extensive training in evidence-based treatments, implementing these approaches in various levels of care (treating mild to extreme severities). She also teaches graduate courses and provides presentations to raise awareness of the etiology, symptoms, and maintenance of OCD. Shanda can be reached at [email protected].
Allie Wilson, LPC, Treasurer
Allie Wilson, LPC (she/hers) is the owner of Brave Steps Counseling, LLC and specializes in working with OCD, anxiety disorders and body-focused repetitive behaviors. She is a graduate of the Behavior Therapy Training Institute and continues to pursue advanced trainings to remain current in her knowledge and expertise of treating these disorders. Allie can be reached at [email protected].
Angela Adamson Springer, LCSW, Secretary
Angela Springer (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been working with kids, parents, and adults who struggle with anxiety-related problems and obsessive-compulsive disorders since 2007. Angela is a graduate of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) through the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF). She specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), and Inference-Based CBT. In addition, she is a Diplomate and a Certified Trainer and Consultant for the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies and is a consultant and trainer of Inference-Based CBT. Angela specializes in working with kids and teens. She has a strong love of learning, passion for working with kids, creative spirit, and commitment to staying updated on the most recent science in treatment. Breaking complicated concepts down into engaging, fun, interactive, and understandable material is Angela’s specialty. Angela can be reached at [email protected].
—
Samantha Kranzberg Simonetti
Social Media and Event Planning Officer
Samantha Kranzberg Simonetti (she/hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in treating kids, teens, and young adults with obsessive compulsive disorder and anxiety related problems. She is a graduate of the Pediatric Behavioral Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) through the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF). Samantha utilizes evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure response prevention (ERP) and ComB (comprehensive behavioral) treatment.