Break Free from OCD’s Grip.
What is OCD?
Everyone experiences obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors from time to time, but having Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is something entirely different. When left untreated, OCD can be distressing and disruptive, and for some people, it can feel like a relentless nightmare. This common yet often misunderstood disorder is marked by persistent, intrusive thoughts or urges (obsessions) that cause significant distress, leading to repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) aimed at easing anxiety or preventing a feared outcome. This cycle of obsessions and compulsions can consume at least an hour or more each day in addition to interfering with daily life and well-being.
You’re Not Alone.
One of the biggest obstacles to getting help for OCD is obtaining an accurate diagnosis in the first place. Many people feel ashamed of their OCD, and even mental health professionals often misunderstand it. As a result, it can take 14 to 17 years before people receive the right kind of help. During this time, they may feel isolated and hopeless, believing that nothing can help them.
Taking the step to seek help is both crucial in managing OCD and incredibly brave. The good news is that OCD can be treated effectively. While there isn’t a technical 'cure,' meaningful recovery is entirely possible. Relief is in your reach.
What are Obsessions?
When we talk about obsessions in OCD, we don’t mean being "obsessed" with oat-milk lattes or Taylor Swift; those are likes and interests. Special interests or preferences usually bring positive feelings or, at the very least, a sense of relief. Obsessions in OCD, however, are entirely different.
OCD obsessions are quite the opposite to likes and interests. OCD obsessions are often ego-dystonic, meaning they deeply conflict with a person’s core values and sense of self. For example, someone who values kindness and gentleness may, out of nowhere, experience vivid intrusive thoughts or images about harming others. Obsessions can revolve around any theme (contamination, existential worries, relationships, etc.), usually attaching to subjects that a person values most.
What are Compulsions?
The distress caused by obsessions often drives people with OCD to engage in compulsive behaviors, hoping for temporary relief from the overwhelming anxiety or to prevent a feared outcome. Compulsions can take many forms, from visible actions like washing, checking, or counting to subtler mental rituals, such as praying, repeating words or phrases, internal arguments, or mentally reassuring oneself.
While these compulsions may provide momentary relief, they ultimately reinforce a continuous cycle of distress and compulsive urges, trapping the person in a very painful loop.
When to Seek Help
When symptoms start affecting your daily life, such as personal, relational, or work-related aspects.
If persistent distressing thoughts and compulsive behaviors are causing significant distress or disruption.
Difficulty finding joy or fulfillment in life due to OCD.
Any worries or concerns regarding your symptoms.
Desire for support or treatment to address OCD.
You Can Recover
Research is on your side. Studies indicate that the most successful approaches for OCD recovery and relief include specialized therapy and, in some cases, a blend of therapy and medication.
OCD tends to target what we cherish most in our lives; so, it is important to promptly seek support.
Life is too short to suffer this much.
I can help.
While there are many approaches to treating OCD, research consistently supports a form of cognitive behavioral therapy, known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), as the “gold-standard” treatment. ERP is a personalized therapy strategically designed to help you turn OCD on its head. Through manageable steps, ERP guides you to face your fears and resist compulsive behaviors. Though challenging, ERP’s strength lies in its proven effectiveness, time and time again. ERP has helped many people lead fuller lives, no longer pushed around and manipulated by the bully that is OCD.
I'm proud to have received intensive training in ERP through the Center for Anxiety and Behavior Therapy. I stay committed to providing the best care for my clients by continually engaging in expert consultation and ongoing learning.
To learn more about my approach to providing compassionate and engaging ERP therapy, feel free to schedule a no-strings-attached 20-minute phone call.
PROUD TO BE AN
Feb 15, 2025. ACTION ALERT: Protect Access to Essential OCD Medications
A recent executive order has mandated an assessment of the "prevalence of and potential risks associated with the prescription of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)," among other medications. While evaluating healthcare practices is important, I’m deeply concerned that without strong advocacy, access to life-changing treatments could be restricted.
SSRIs are a critical, evidence-based treatment for pediatric OCD, helping young people fully engage in therapy, school, and social life—key aspects of healthy development. OCD is already one of the most debilitating, misdiagnosed, and under-treated conditions worldwide. Limiting access to these medications could have devastating consequences.
Join me and IOCDF.org in urging your legislators to protect access to SSRIs. Tell the President’s Make Our Children Healthy Again Commission that SSRIs must remain an available treatment for both youth and adults affected by OCD and related disorders. Click below, it only takes a minute!
Information is Power!
GET STARTED WITH THESE FREE RESOURCES:
OCD and the Brain : Explore an interactive platform educating youths and caregivers on OCD. Learn about OCD intricacies, brain's role, research, and treatments through videos and simplified text. Find research opportunities and information on getting evidenced-based support.
IOCDF Live : Join interactive live streams twice a week with OCD experts and those living with OCD and related disorders. Connect with the community, ask questions, and join the resistance against mental health stigma!
Insightful Blog : How Having No Cure for OCD is the Cure