Jacob Schmitz, PsyD

I am dedicated to working with individuals with primary obsessive-compulsive and anxiety disorders. My approach is evidence-based and personalised with a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. I aim to help my clients define and create a fulfilling life in spite of whatever challenges they are experiencing and I do this through techniques such as values-clarification, goal-setting, exposure therapy, and shifting the way one relates and responds to their thoughts.

Many of my clients present with co-occurring factors such as neurodivergence, adversity, or depression. My treatment structure is informed by a comprehensive intake process and careful conceptualization of core issues.

I hold a PsyD in clinical psychology from Loyola University Maryland, where I was trained in different modalities including CBT, ACT, ERP, and family therapy/parent training. I completed my pre-doctoral internship and post-doctoral training at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine/Children’s Hospital of Richmond. During this time, I received supervision from faculty with specialized training in the treatment of OCD and anxiety. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Virginia and am registered as a clinical psychologist with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. My skillset is ever expanding and I remain committed to engagement in ongoing training and supervision.

My practice welcomes clients of diverse backgrounds and belief systems (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion), and I am committed to providing culturally responsive and sensitive care. I conceptualize my clients with broader systems in mind and do my best to navigate these to enhance outcomes.

I have built my cultural competency/humility through a myriad of experiences including but not limited to my undergraduate/graduate course work, being a member of a cultural and racial diversity focused research lab, and previously co-teaching a cultural mental health seminar to psychology, psychiatry, and social work trainees in an academic medical center setting. After immigrating to Aotearoa New Zealand in early 2024, I have been committed to expanding my ability to effectively work with Māori whaiora which has included engagement in relevant trainings (e.g., Kaitiaki Ahurea) and cultural supervision.