Chapter Meeting: May 2026

Hoarding Basics for Professional Organizers

This is an entry-level presentation tailored for professional organizers interested in working with individuals experiencing hoarding or cluttering issues. In this course, participants will learn about DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and real life diagnostic considerations for Hoarding Disorder (HD). They will also learn about clinical characteristics of and contributing factors to HD, and be introduced to existing psychotherapy approaches and other sources of support for HD.

Objectives:

1. Obtaining up-to-date knowledge to assess and understand hoarding
2. Understanding psychological reasons for the behavioral challenge in order to more effectively work with people who hoard
3. Learning about mental health resources and way to work with clients when progress is challenging

Presenter:

Chia-Ying Chou, PhD is founder and director of the San Francisco Center for Compassion Focused Therapies(@SFCompassion)- a group psychotherapy practice and training hub for Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and Hoarding Disorder (HD). Dr. Chou obtained her PhD from University College London with a focus on trauma. She spent her postdoc years at University of California, San Francisco working with individuals experiencing hoarding, which she considers to be a relatable human experience and a form of difficulty letting-go. Dr. Chou’s interest focuses on the connection between trauma and the blocks and fears of letting-go and letting-in. She provides training and consultation for clinicians on CFT and HD worldwide. More about her approach and psychoeducation materials can be found on her YouTube channel.

Registration will open one month in advance.

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