**Telehealth Sessions Available for California, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii,  Indiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, South Carolina, Vermont, and Virginia Residents. Now Accepting New Clients** 

(323) 332-1655
Book now

Telehealth Sessions Available for California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii,  Indiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, South Carolina, Vermont, and Virginia Residents. Now Accepting New Clients

(323) 332-1655
Book now

Publications

Books

Illustration of a book cover featuring a fierce, monstrous character with sharp teeth labeled as the 'OCD Monster,' contrasted with a cute, attentive German Shepherd named Bode sitting nearby. The title on the book reads 'Bode the German Shepherd Battles the OCD Monster,' suggesting a story about overcoming challenges related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Bode the Brave Battles the OCD Monster is a children’s book, authored by M.R. Estante and aimed at 8 to 11-year-olds experiencing OCD symptoms, uses storytelling to teach healthy coping skills for managing Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The main character is Bode, a German Shepherd dog who battles the “OCD Monster,” representing intrusive thoughts and compulsions. Through witty banter and strategic responses like “Maybe and Maybe Not,” Bode resists the urge to compulsively check things, gradually shrinking the OCD Monster. The story illustrates key concepts like Exposure and Response Prevention, response prevention, and habituation, showing how refraining from compulsive behaviors can reduce OCD symptoms over time.

Untangling from OCD: A Guide to Sustainable Recovery by M.R. Estante explores the journey of recovery from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) through Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy. It addresses the common fear of relapse that lingers even after progress is made. The book helps readers separate their identity from the grasp of OCD and navigate the psychological challenge of preventing regression. Drawing on insights from psychoanalytic interventions by Dr. Leon Salzman and Dr. Nancy McWilliams, the guide emphasizes not only overcoming OCD symptoms but fostering a deeper understanding of one’s psyche to achieve long-lasting recovery and self-redefinition.

Cover image for the book Original Archetype: Attaching to the Genuine Self to Detach from the Symptomatic Persona by M.R. Estante. The image features a surreal, abstract portrait of a woman's face, half-painted with vibrant swirls of red and blue, symbolizing the contrast between the genuine self and the symptomatic persona. Her serene expression and closed eyes reflect inner peace amidst the dynamic color patterns that represent emotional and psychological layers.

M.R. Estante’s Original Archetype offers a personalized journey to help individuals with OCD detach from intrusive thoughts and rediscover inner peace. Using self-awareness and cognitive defusion, the book guides readers through introspective exercises based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It emphasizes moving beyond traditional coping mechanisms to achieve true serenity and personal growth. With practical tools like mindfulness and journaling, readers can transform daily struggles into opportunities for healing and empowerment.

Articles

How to Recover From Being a People Pleaser
Setting healthier boundaries for people-pleasers often requires a period of overcorrection. A simple rule of thumb is to pause before saying yes to requests outside of your immediate responsibilities. Another good way to set boundaries is to allow yourself only one or two days for spontaneity. Outside of those days, stick to your goals and priorities, even if it means tolerating the feeling of being selfish. Encourage others to find solutions themselves, as this helps them become more independent.

Unplugged Escapes: Tips and Destinations for a Digital Detox Vacation

Explore the rising trend of vacations designed to help travelers unplug and enjoy screen-free relaxation. Featured destinations like Iceland’s Hotel Ranga, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, and Velas Resorts offer low-tech amenities and device-free environments, allowing guests to immerse in their surroundings without digital distractions.

The article also provides DIY tips for personal analog vacations, such as bringing physical books, using printed maps, and silencing phones to reduce tech dependency. Experts note that unplugging leads to lower stress, improved focus, and enhanced productivity, making these analog experiences beneficial even after the trip ends.

A serene image of a person practicing yoga in a tree pose on a hilltop at sunset, overlooking rolling mountains and a tranquil sky. This peaceful moment reflects the holistic and mindful approach advocated by Exposure Therapy Designs to promote balance and well-being.

Menopause weight loss: How much protein to eat at every meal to ‘boost metabolism and preserve muscle’

Managing weight during menopause can be challenging, but strategic dietary changes can make a difference. Rheba Estante, psychotherapist at Exposure Therapy Designs, recommends focusing on 25-30g of protein per meal to preserve muscle and boost metabolism, along with 25-30g of fiber daily for satiety and gut health. Pairing a high-protein, fiber-rich diet with regular exercise supports weight management and reduces menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. Always consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes.

A man sitting in front of a lit Christmas tree, appearing deep in thought, symbolizing holiday stress. Maria Rheba Estante emphasizes balancing relaxation with meaningful activities to manage stress during the holidays.

There’s A Sneaky Way Your Holiday Plans May Be Causing You More Stress

Maria Rheba Estante, explains that unstructured holiday downtime can increase stress, especially for those with ADHD, OCD, or anxiety. She suggests balancing relaxation with engaging activities, like baking with friends or combining routines with meaningful connections, to maintain grounding and recharge effectively.

Podcasts

A stack of books with diverse covers and bindings, symbolizing a collection of psychological literature. The books are piled high on a wooden surface against a dark blue background, representing the breadth of knowledge explored on the Book Podcast. Hosted by Maria Rheba Estante, Practice Manager at Exposure Therapy Designs, the podcast delves into classic and contemporary works in psychology.

Book Therapy Podcast, hosted by M.R. Estante, is a captivating series that explores psychological literature through reviews and interviews with experts in the field. Covering everything from Carl Jung’s theories on archetypes to Bion’s insights on group dynamics, the podcast offers a rich mix of classic and contemporary psychological works. Aimed at psychologists, students, and curious minds alike, M.R. Estante, Practice Manager at Exposure Therapy Designs, makes complex psychological concepts accessible and engaging. Each episode brings books to life, blending intellectual depth with a love for storytelling, making it an enriching experience for all who tune in.

Post mentions

Smiling woman in a bright kitchen preparing a fresh salad with vegetables, promoting a healthy lifestyle. Rheba supports clients in adopting habits that improve overall well-being.

Eating healthy and staying physically fit is good for your mental health.

However, women going through menopause may gain unwanted weight even without changing their diet.  Maria Rheba Estante shares the foods that can help boost metabolism and keep women feeling healthy and happy.