Finding the right therapist for OCD, anxiety, or LGBTQ+ affirming care in Central New York can feel overwhelming. You want someone who truly understands your needs and offers evidence-based treatments like ERP. I've rounded up five standout practices in the
The State of OCD and LGBTQ+ Therapy in Central New York
Central New York is home to a growing number of specialized mental health providers focusing on OCD and anxiety disorders. Many practices now offer Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold standard for OCD treatment. At the same time, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy has become a priority, with several clinics dedicated to serving this community. The region's providers range from solo practitioners to small group practices, all offering personalized care. Telehealth has expanded access, allowing you to connect with specialists across the state.
How I Selected These Practices
I evaluated each practice based on three key factors: specialization in OCD and anxiety disorders, LGBTQ+ affirming services, and accessibility through telehealth and in-person options. I also considered pricing transparency, insurance acceptance, and the availability of free initial consultations. Each practice had to serve the Central New York region, particularly Syracuse and Cicero. Finally, I looked for providers who actively use evidence-based therapies like ERP, CBT, and DBT.
Here's a quick comparison of the five practices to help you decide which one fits your needs.
| Provider | Best For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Barb Shepard, LMHC, PLLC | OCD and anxiety treatment with ERP | $250 initial / $200 ongoing for adults; $400 initial / $200 ongoing for children |
| Alkira Therapy | LGBTQ+ affirming therapy | Accepts insurance (cash/check/credit); rates not publicly listed |
| Skaneateles Psychology Associates | OCD and anxiety with a team approach | Not publicly listed on website |
| Eider Mental Health Counseling | OCD, anxiety, and LGBTQ+ affirming care with free consultation | Free consultation call; rates not publicly listed |
| Paths to Recovery Mental Health Counseling | OCD and anxiety with a group practice that accepts insurance | Not publicly listed on website; accepts insurance |
Detailed Reviews of Each Practice
#1 Barb Shepard, LMHC, PLLC
Barb Shepard is a solo practitioner based in Syracuse, NY, specializing in OCD, anxiety, and PANS/PANDAS for children, teens, adults, and families. She offers Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the most effective therapy for OCD. Her practice provides both telehealth and in-person sessions, making it flexible for your schedule. With transparent pricing and a focus on evidence-based care, Barb is a top choice for OCD treatment in Central New York. You can learn more about her approach on her website (https://barbshepardcounseling.com) or through Psychology Today listings (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/ny/syracuse?category=obsessive-compulsive-ocd).
Practice Comparison:
- Pro: Transparent pricing and strong ERP specialization
- Con: Limited to one clinician, so availability may be tight
- Pricing: $250 initial / $200 ongoing for adults; $400 initial / $200 ongoing for children
#2 Alkira Therapy
A screenshot of the Alkira Therapy website.
Alkira Therapy is a group practice with locations in Syracuse and Rome, NY, serving the LGBTQIA+ community for over 25 years. They offer individual, couples, and family counseling with a strong affirming focus. The practice accepts insurance, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Their long history and dedicated LGBTQ+ specialty make them a trusted resource. Check their LGBTQ+ counseling page (https://www.alkiratherapy.com/lgbtq-counseling) for more details.
Practice Comparison:
- Pro: Decades of experience serving the LGBTQ+ community
- Con: Pricing not transparent online
- Pricing: Accepts insurance (cash/check/credit); rates not publicly listed
#3 Skaneateles Psychology Associates
A screenshot of the Skaneateles Psychology Associates website.
Skaneateles Psychology Associates is a group practice in the Syracuse area with multiple clinicians. Dr. Aqib Chowdhury specializes in OCD, anxiety, and ERP treatment. The practice also offers CBT, DBT, and CPT for a range of concerns. With a team of therapists, you have more options for scheduling and specialization. Visit their about page (https://www.skanpsych.com/therapist-in-syracuse-area/about) to learn more about their clinicians.
Practice Comparison:
- Pro: Multiple clinicians with diverse specialties
- Con: No pricing information available online
- Pricing: Not publicly listed on website
#4 Eider Mental Health Counseling
A screenshot of the Eider Mental Health Counseling website.
Eider Mental Health Counseling, run by Emily, offers telehealth and in-office therapy for OCD, anxiety, and LGBTQ+ clients in New York State. Located in Cicero, NY, the practice provides free consultation calls to help you decide if it's the right fit. They specialize in ERP and other evidence-based treatments. This practice is ideal if you're looking for a personalized, affirming approach in the Syracuse area. You can schedule a free call through their website (https://eidermentalhealthcounseling.com).
Practice Comparison:
- Pro: Free initial consultation and LGBTQ+ affirming focus
- Con: Pricing not listed online; solo practitioner
- Pricing: Free consultation call; rates not publicly listed
#5 Paths to Recovery Mental Health Counseling
A screenshot of the Paths to Recovery Mental Health Counseling website.
Paths to Recovery is a family-owned group practice serving the Syracuse area with locations in Manlius and Baldwinsville, NY. They offer ERP, CBT, and DBT for OCD, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. Licensed in both New York and Vermont, the practice has multiple clinicians to meet your needs. They accept insurance, which can make therapy more affordable. Explore their website (https://www.ptrcounseling.com) to see their full range of services.
Practice Comparison:
- Pro: Accepts insurance and has multiple clinicians
- Con: No online pricing transparency
- Pricing: Not publicly listed on website; accepts insurance
How to Choose the Right Therapist for You
Start by identifying your primary needs: are you seeking OCD-specific ERP therapy, LGBTQ+ affirming care, or both? Consider whether you prefer a solo practitioner for a more intimate setting or a group practice for more scheduling flexibility. Check if the provider accepts your insurance or offers a free consultation to test the fit. Location matters too — some offer in-person sessions in Syracuse or Cicero, while others provide telehealth across New York. Finally, read their website and any online reviews to get a sense of their approach and personality.
Streamlining Your Therapist Search
Use online directories like Psychology Today to filter by specialty, insurance, and location. Many practices allow you to book a free consultation directly through their website. Set up a spreadsheet to compare pricing, availability, and therapy modalities. Once you've narrowed it down, schedule calls with two or three providers to see who you connect with best.
Your Next Step Toward Better Mental Health
Finding the right therapist is a personal journey, but these five Central New York practices offer a strong starting point. Whether you choose Barb Shepard for her ERP expertise, Alkira Therapy for its LGBTQ+ focus, or Eider Mental Health Counseling for its free consultation, you're taking a positive step. Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a call — the right support is out there.