Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
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 signs, according to the Mayo Clinic, of OCD are:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Constant checking
- Constant counting
- The repeated cleaning of one or more items
- Constantly checking the stove or door locks
- Fear of contamination
- Hoarding
- Thoughts that you might be harmed
- Thoughts that you might cause others harm
If one or more of the above symptoms resonates with you, I encourage you to seek treatment for OCD. Research consistently shows that the most effective treatment for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), often alongside medication when appropriate. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can also be a valuable complement to ERP, helping you respond differently to intrusive thoughts and build a life guided by your values rather than fear.
As a licensed mental health professional, I am trained in ERP and ACT and specialize in helping individuals overcome the challenges of OCD. Together, we'll create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals so you can regain confidence and move toward the life you want. Contact me today to schedule a free consultation.