Annie Merel, LCPC

Psychotherapist

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Professional headshot of clinician Annie Merel

Treatment Philosophy

Most of us possess the skills and inner resources needed to navigate life’s challenges. However, during difficult times, it can be easy to lose sight of those abilities—especially when obstacles feel overwhelming enough to overshadow our strengths. I believe in each person’s capacity for growth and change, and that many of the tools required to create a meaningful, fulfilling life are already within reach. Through the therapeutic process, we can restore and expand self-awareness, identify and strengthen existing skills, cultivate resilience, and foster deeper connections with others and within the larger community.

My approach is grounded in a systemic framework with a solution-focused perspective, emphasizing practical strategies for the present and future. My goal is to support and empower you in creating realistic solutions, building meaningful relationships, and embracing your personal strengths as you work toward lasting, positive change.

  • I’m a licensed therapist with specialized training in both Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and ADHD/Executive Functioning, working with adults ages 18 and up. I’ve provided therapy in private practice, hospital, and university counseling settings, and I bring a structured, collaborative approach to helping clients better understand themselves and create meaningful change.

    In my work with OCD, I use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard, evidence-based treatment. I help clients identify intrusive thoughts and gradually reduce compulsive behaviors in a way that feels manageable and empowering. Whether someone is struggling with contamination fears, perfectionism, taboo thoughts, or other OCD subtypes, we work together to restore a sense of freedom and confidence.

    When supporting individuals with ADHD and executive functioning challenges, I focus on practical strategies to address common struggles such as procrastination, disorganization, time blindness, and follow-through. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with an understanding of how ADHD impacts daily functioning—helping clients build systems that work for them, not against them.

    Outside of my clinical work, I’m a mom of three, and I recharge by spending time outdoors, playing racquet sports and softball, doing Pilates, and traveling whenever I can. I believe therapy should feel like a collaborative, supportive space—where meaningful change can happen with honesty, humor, and care.

  • I spent seven years as a clinician at DePaul University’s Center for Students with Disabilities, where I provided mental health counseling and academic support, helping students develop executive functioning skills, self-advocacy, and strategies for academic success.

    For the past six years, I have been in private practice, expanding my scope of services to include OCD treatment. In 2020, I completed specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) through the International OCD Foundation and have focused on treating OCD and related disorders for the past five years.

  • Age 4 & up