Josh Kaplan

Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS) are conditions in which children experience a dramatic, sudden change in behavior—often literally overnight. For many families, the shift is so abrupt that they describe it as “waking up to a different child.” These conditions occur when inflammation or an autoimmune response affects the brain, particularly areas involved in emotion...

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is often mistaken for vanity or insecurity, but in reality, it is a severe and misunderstood mental health condition that can significantly impair daily functioning. Individuals with BDD become intensely preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance—flaws that others may barely notice or not see at all. These concerns can center on any part of the body but commonly include the skin, face, hair, head size, and body shape. What sets BDD apart from typical...

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the leading, research-backed treatment for Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder—and it works by helping individuals change their relationship  to fear, doubt, and intrusive thoughts. Instead of trying to eliminate or suppress these thoughts (which actually strengthens OCD), ERP teaches the brain that anxiety can rise and fall naturally without the need for compulsions. At its core, ERP has two parts: Exposure  – gradually approaching situations, thoughts,...