In-Home OCD Treatment/Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Provider
“When faced with challenging behaviors, look for the corresponding strength, and focus on nurturing that gift while providing gentle guidance and coping techniques for the challenging areas. That is the essence of working with, instead of against, our children” – L.R. Knost
Highlighted New Service: In-Home OCD Treatment/Exposure Response Prevention
Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, Lauryn pursued academic studies in Psychology and Nutrition at Chapman University located in Orange County, California. After completing her studies, Lauryn embarked on a professional journey dedicated to mental health advocacy, where she gained experience with several subject groups.
Lauryn has grown her knowledge through a variety of different certifications and relevant job experiences. Some of her specialties include Behavioral Intervention, Mindfulness, Equine-Assisted Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Lauryn has worked with young adults and children of all ages to help them with Behavioral Management for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, and PTSD.
Working side by side with Anna Williams LMFT, Lauryn will broaden her practice to provide families with in-home Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), which is the leading empirically validated treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). ERP is shown to significantly reduce debilitating and impairing symptoms of OCD, and Lauryn is excited to make this treatment modality available to families in-home, where the most dramatic gains can be realized. Bringing hope, independence, and restoration of relationships between loved ones, she is excited to bring individuals a sense of empowerment and mastery over their anxiety.
Lauryn grew up in Palm Springs, California, and enjoys hiking, yoga, camping, and spending time at the ranch. She grew up riding and competing in equestrian sports, which she now does for leisure. Lauryn also has a puppy that loves to go on runs and adventures with her.
What Others Say About Us
I am a general pediatrician with a special interest in ADHD, spending about 20% of my clinical time caring for ADHD patients. I have known Dr Pontillo since 2005 and have an enormous respect for her clinical skills and insights. She is my “go to” psychologist for more complicated developmental issues and for diagnosis of subtle high functioning disabilities. Dr. Pontillo’s interest in her patients and her ability to clearly delineate developmental problems allows parents to move forward with establishing a treatment plan. She is an invaluable resource to the San Diego Pediatric community.
Dr. Pontillo is an exceptional, and one-of-a-kind child psychologist. I have referred many children of my patients to Dr. Pontillo and she has always given them the best care and attention. Referring a patient to another professional is a big responsibility. I always look for a colleague who is efficient, professional, experienced and one who is able to come up with a clear diagnosis. I keep referring to Dr. Pontillo because of her expertise, efficiency and especially her warm and caring personality that is extremely necessary when dealing with children. I very highly recommend Deborah Pontillo, Ph.D as a child diagnostician, developmental and behavioral specialist, and therapist.
I’ve been referring my patients to Dr. Pontillo for the past several years with the utmost confidence that she will care and understand their developmental needs. Dr. Pontillo always provided them with a balanced and age appropriate intervention to help not only the child but the family as a whole.