Endless Obsessions. Relentless Compulsions.
Break free from OCD’s grip.
What is OCD?
Everyone has obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, but not everyone has Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Untreated OCD is a distressing condition that can feel like a nightmare. This common but misunderstood experience involves persistent, intrusive thoughts or urges (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). The obsessions cause the person great distress, and they feel compelled to carry out compulsions either to reduce their distress or prevent a feared outcome. A person with OCD goes through this cycle of obsessions and compulsions for at least an hour or more each day and leads to significant distress and disruption in their life.
You’re Not Alone.
One of the biggest obstacles to getting help for OCD is obtaining an accurate diagnosis. Many people feel ashamed of their OCD, and mental health professionals often misunderstand it. As a result, it can take 14 to 17 years before people receive the right treatment. 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.
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 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 aren’t about personal likes—they’re quite the opposite. These obsessions are often ego-dystonic, meaning they deeply conflict with a person’s core values. For example, someone who is non-violent may have intrusive thoughts 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, or seeking excessive self-reassurance.
While these compulsions may provide momentary relief, they ultimately reinforce a continuous cycle of distress and compulsive response, trapping the person in a relentless 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 addressing OCD include specialized therapy and, in some cases, a blend of therapy and medication to effectively cope with symptoms.
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 supports a specific form of cognitive behavioral therapy, known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), as the gold-standard treatment. ERP is a personalized therapy designed to help you turn OCD on its head. Through manageable steps, ERP guides you to face your fears and resist the urges for compulsive behaviors. Though challenging, ERP’s strength lies in its proven effectiveness: systematically addressing fears fosters a sense of control and resilience, empowering you to break free from OCD’s grip—all with compassionate, guided support. ERP has helped many people lead fuller lives, no longer pushed around by the bully that is OCD.
To learn more about my ERP approach, feel free to schedule a no-strings-attached, 20-minute phone call.
PROUD TO BE AN
Information is Power! Get started with these free OCD 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 : Twice weekly, interactive live-streams with OCD experts and people living with OCD and related disorders. Connect with the community, ask your questions, and join the fight against the stigma surrounding mental health!