Ernest Schmidt, LCSW – Owner

Anxiety and OCD can make life feel smaller than it needs to be. Ernie Schmidt has spent nearly 30 years helping people break free from that pattern and get back to living fully.

Ernie is the founder of Palo Alto Therapy and has specialized in anxiety and OCD since 1996, working with teens and adults using CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, two of the most effective, evidence-based approaches available. His style is direct and practical. Sessions have a clear structure and a real purpose, so you leave knowing exactly what you’re working on and why.

In addition to his clinical work, Ernie consults with therapy practices and small businesses on growth, operations, and building sustainable practices. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience running Palo Alto Therapy, he brings a practical, no-nonsense perspective to business owners who want real results without the guesswork.

Ernie holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of the Pacific and a Master’s Degree from UC Berkeley. He is certified in Cognitive Therapy through the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies and holds OCD certification through the Obsessive Compulsive Foundation. Before founding Palo Alto Therapy, he served as a tenured faculty member at Foothill College, where he provided student counseling and taught courses on stress management and emotional wellness.

Ernie’s caseload is limited. To find out about availability, contact our care team directly at (650) 461-9026.

Outside of work he spends his time gardening, playing tennis, traveling, and exploring the Bay Area’s trails with his wife and three children.