What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, involves having obsessive thinking patterns that can include unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that make a person feel anxious or distressed.
Individuals who have OCD often have significant difficulty pushing away or ignoring these thoughts. Those with OCD also have compulsive behaviors which are an attempt to reverse the obsessive thoughts or urges by performing some sort of action.
Common Symptoms of OCD Include:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Avoidance
- Constant checking
- Constant counting
- Repeated cleaning
- Constantly checking the stove or door locks
- Fear of contamination
- Hoarding
- Thoughts that you might be harmed
- Thoughts that you might cause others harm
Treatment
Treatment that I provide for OCD includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). During session, we will explore how OCD operates in your mind, discuss ways to challenge OCD thoughts, and use exposure response exercises to reduce anxiety and compulsions related to OCD thoughts. We will also discuss accepting uncertainty and understanding how to life a fulfilling life where OCD is not in the drivers seat.