What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that individuals feel compelled to perform. These thoughts and behaviors can significantly interfere with daily life and may cause considerable distress. People with OCD often experience intense anxiety or distress due to the obsessive thoughts, and they engage in compulsive behaviors as a way to reduce or prevent the anxiety.
Common Symptoms of OCD
Obsessions:
Obsessions are intrusive and unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or discomfort.
- Fear of contamination or dirt
- Unwanted, intrusive thoughts about harming oneself or others
- Concerns about order, symmetry, or exactness
- Disturbing religious or sexual thoughts
Compulsions:
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to the obsessions or according to rigid rules. While these compulsions may provide temporary relief from the anxiety, the cycle tends to repeat, creating a cycle of obsession and compulsion.
- Excessive cleaning or washing
- Repeating actions a certain number of times
- Checking things repeatedly
- Mental rituals like counting or praying excessively
OCD Therapy Techniques
Virtual therapy for OCD utilizes evidence-based techniques to help individuals manage and overcome their symptoms. Below are the treatment approaches I utilize.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for OCD
CBT is a widely recognized and effective treatment for OCD. It helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts, gradually reducing the need for compulsive behaviors.
Exposure Therapy for OCD
ERP involves exposing individuals to anxiety-provoking situations or thoughts and preventing the accompanying compulsive behaviors. Over time, this helps diminish the anxiety associated with the obsessions.
Mindfulness and Acceptance
Mindfulness techniques can enhance one’s ability to observe thoughts without judgment. Acceptance of discomfort is a key aspect of managing OCD symptoms.
What to Expect from Online OCD Therapy
Because OCD manifests in many different ways, one of the first goals of treatment is to identify your unique obsessions and compulsions. We will work together to increase yourself – awareness.
Many people experience shame in relation to their OCD, because the unwanted thoughts and behaviors can be repugnant or inconsistent with their personality. We will work on reducing shame and increasing self-confidence.
You will learn to become more aware in the moment of your OCD symptoms, and how to develop coping skills to reduce symptom frequency and intensity.
Through a combination of CBT, ERP, and mindfulness, you will gain control over intrusive thoughts and reduce behavior patterns like rituals that are in the way of important areas of your life.
There is great news! OCD may never be cured, but it is possible to have it affect your life minimally.
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