OCD
Therapy for OCD
OCD is widely misunderstood as tidiness. It is better described as unwanted intrusive thoughts that cause real distress, and the rituals people use to make that distress stop — which work briefly and strengthen the cycle.
What it can look like
- Intrusive, unwanted thoughts that feel distressing or shameful
- Repetitive checking, washing, counting or seeking reassurance
- Rituals that have to be completed a particular way
- Significant time lost to compulsions
- Avoiding triggers to prevent the thoughts starting
This is not a diagnosis.
Recognising yourself in a list is a reason to talk to someone, not a conclusion.
A psychologist can tell you what is actually going on.
What therapy does about it
The evidence points strongly to Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specific form of CBT. It involves gradually facing the trigger without performing the ritual, at a pace agreed with your psychologist.
Psychologists who work with ocd
See all 33 who work with ocd
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