CALL 833-HEAL-OCD (833-432-5623)

Stop Intrusive Thoughts—Start Living Again

The Gateway Institute is pleased to expand its reach of specialized Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) treatment to Orange County residents since 2008. Located in Costa Mesa, California. The Gateway Institute is committed to its goal of offering accessible specialized treatment to those who suffer from OCD and anxiety-related conditions.

Expert OCD & anxiety therapy in Costa Mesa using proven ERP & CBT methods.

The treatment methods utilized at Gateway to treat anxiety conditions are cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), exposure therapy (ET) and mindfulness-based behavioral therapy (MBBT).

Why Choose Gateway in Costa Mesa?

  • Proven ERP & CBT for intrusive thoughts & OCD

  • Private therapy sessions with licensed experts

  • Compassionate care that empowers you

  • Flexible scheduling—daily, weekly, evening options

Do you experience…

  • Thoughts stuck on repeat?

  • Fear you may act on your thoughts?

  • Anxiety that disrupts daily life?

  • Disturbing mental loops you can’t dismiss?

Schedule Free 30 Minute Consultation

What We Offer – Treatment Programs

Personalized OCD & Intrusive Thought Treatment:

  • Initial Assessment: Free 30‑minute consultation

  • Weekly Therapy: ERP + CBT focused on your pattern

  • Intensive IOP: Three-week program for deeper transformation

  • Telehealth Options: Remote sessions for convenience

  • Home Visits: In-person support in your real-life environment

    You’re not alone—and help is available.
    Learn more about Intrusive Thoughts & OCD

Meet Our Staff

The Gateway Institute
940 South Coast Dr. Suite 235
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Office Phone: (714) 549-1030

Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday: 8AM-6PM

Start Your Journey To Healing Today

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Meet Our Costa Mesa, California Staff

Jim Sterner

Jim Sterner

LMFT | Clinical Supervisor Lic. # 46088

Jim Sterner, LMFT, founder of The Gateway Institute, discovered his passion and interest in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) while studying psychology at the University of Maryland and Antioch University. This passion and interest in the field of OCD drove him to further studies at Phillips Graduate Institute in … READ MORE

Chris Trondsen

Chris Trondsen

LMFT | LIC. # 135118 | APCC Registration #6764

Chris Trondsen is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). He received his bachelor’s degree in human development and psychology from California State University, Long Beach. Additionally, Chris earned a Master’s of Science (M.S.) Degree in Counseling,  … READ MORE

Ann-Margaret Mercier

Ann-Margaret Mercier

AMFT | Registration#: 138078

Ann-Margaret Mercier, AMFT and APCC, completed her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University. At The Gateway Institute, she specializes in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders (OCRDs) as well as anxiety disorders, utilizing evidence-based treatments such as exposure and response … READ MORE

Jacques Esses

Jacques Esses

MSW | Registration# ASW96605

Jacques Esses is a registered Associate Clinical Social Worker. He earned his Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree, with an emphasis on individual and group clinical work at Yeshiva University, New York City. Jacques’ graduate thesis focused on the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) from an Exposure … READ MORE

Katharine Shiota

Katharine Shiota

LCSW

Katharine Shiota is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related anxiety disorders. She earned her Master of Social Work from California State University… Katharine utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as the foundation… READ MORE