Megan Piesman

Evidence-Based Therapy for
OCD, Anxiety, & Couples

Helping thoughtful individuals and partners move out of cycles of overthinking, self-criticism, and disconnection — and into steadier, more fulfilling lives and relationships.

MEGAN PIESMAN, PHD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist — New York & New Jersey

about MEGAN

I work with individuals and partners who are thoughtful, capable, and often highly self-critical. Many have tried to manage their symptoms independently, gathered extensive information, and still feel stuck in patterns of overthinking, avoidance, or conflict.

My approach integrates Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Treatment is structured, collaborative, and grounded in research. Together, we focus on increasing psychological flexibility, improving emotional regulation, and strengthening relationship patterns.

A core part of the work involves learning to tolerate difficult emotional states and approach vulnerability with greater self-compassion, curiosity, and openness — rather than organizing life around avoiding discomfort.

Clients often describe feeling more grounded, more confident in decision-making, and better equipped to handle uncertainty without becoming overwhelmed.

MY BIO

my APPROACH

ERP is a top treatment for OCD and involves gradually confronting what scares you while resisting the urge to give in to compulsions. I know that might sound intense, but I’ll be with you and your partner through whatever you’re going through. We'll work together to craft exposures tailored to your specific triggers, helping you face them head-on. We will practice techniques designed to assist you in developing better relationships with your thoughts and emotions. ERP empowers you to take back control of your life and build confidence in managing anxiety and other OCD themes, no matter how they show up.
ACT focuses on cultivating psychological flexibility through mindfulness, willingness, and acceptance. ACT teaches us to observe our internal experiences from a distance (example: imagine watching the movie of your life), accept their presences, and build the willingness to experience them without trying to eliminate them. Together, we'll practice allowing uncomfortable thoughts and emotions to come along for the ride while you pursue what truly matters to you—which can be especially empowering for couples, too. This increased tolerance reduces suffering and gradually diminishes the impact of anxiety and intrusive thoughts on daily life. The impact it can have on our relationships is profound.
EFT is a research-based approach for couples that strengthens emotional connection and improves communication. Rather than focusing only on surface conflict, EFT helps identify the underlying patterns that leave partners feeling stuck, distant, or misunderstood.
In our work together, we slow down moments of tension and explore the emotions driving them. As these patterns become clearer, couples begin to respond to one another with greater openness and empathy instead of defensiveness or withdrawal.
EFT is not about blame. It’s about understanding the cycle you’re caught in and creating new ways of reaching for each other. Over time, partners often feel more secure, more connected, and better able to navigate conflict without it threatening the relationship.