A Pragmatic Approach to Chronic Disorganisation and Hoarding

-using the DESIRE method

What is The DESIRE Method?

DESIRE is a methodological framework for managing behaviour change whilst adopting a harm reduction attitude to extreme clutter situations.

DESIRE incorporates research, evidence-based therapies, strategies and techniques with skills, knowledge and experience, producing a helpful way to appraise an extreme clutter situation and decide on the best and least harmful course of action.

“This method supports objectivity when assessing the level of clutter and identifying associated risks and issues. It allows us to remove our own standards and judgements to focus specifically on a person’s health, safety and wellbeing.”

DESIRE integrates theories such as the Stages of Change model and person-centredness with practical strategies and techniques aimed at reducing compulsive acquiring and saving.

  • “A truly groundbreaking journey along the most comprehensive roadmap of hoarding I have come across in my practice. This engrossing read offers relevance and resonance, filling a long-standing gap in the evidence base on compassionate approaches to hoarding. A beautifully crafted portrait of how we relate to our possessions, this will undoubtedly become a crucial literary companion for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and understanding of hoarding behaviours.”

    ~ Kayley Hyman

  • “I’ve just finished reading your book, which is great. I especially like your chapters on engagement, harm reduction, and strengths-based approaches. It will be a great help to people who work with hoarding clients or are interested in doing so; they will learn a great deal. You take a very positive and yet honest approach to the rewards and challenges in this field. I appreciate your ethics chapter and the one on language; both will give readers a clear picture of how to approach cases.”

    ~ Randy Frost, Harold Edward and Elsa Siipola Israel Professor Emeritus of Psychology

  • “This book is a very comprehensive guide and practical resource for not only hoarding practitioners, but also family and friends. Easy to read, packed with some valuable and meaningful tips and full of useful information in one place. A very insightful read.”

    ~ Jo Cooke

  • “I would recommend to anyone hoping to learn more and wanting to help in a compassionate, harm reductive way. This book not only helps to understand those who live with it, but also gives a strategy to use when unsure how to proceed.”

    ~ Heather Matuozzo