Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition that needs no introduction. But it is often misunderstood, partly due to how it's portrayed in the media or casually used in conversation. Those who live with OCD know it’s far more than just being clean or liking things “just right.”
At its core, OCD involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts—obsessions—that bring overwhelming anxiety, which in turn leads to repetitive behaviours—compulsions—meant to ease that anxiety, but never quite do.
It can take up your time, drain your energy, and make you feel like your mind is out of your control.
What is OCD?
"OCD is like a broken record that keeps playing over and over again in your head. You can't stop it, and the more you try, the worse it gets."
– Dr. Fred Penzel
There are many types of OCD, it’s not all handwashing and lock checking. Here are some of the common types:
Contamination OCD:
Obsessions: Fears of germs, dirt, or contamination.
Compulsions: Washing, cleaning, or avoiding perceived contaminant
Checking OCD:
Obsessions: Fears of causing harm or making a mistake
Compulsions: Repeatedly checking things
Symmetry and Ordering OCD:
Obsessions: A need for symmetry, order, or exactness.
Compulsions: Arranging, organising, or aligning things.
Harm OCD:
Obsessions: Disturbing or violent thoughts, often involving harm to oneself or others.
Compulsions: Mental rituals, such as trying to "undo" the thoughts, or performing actions to prevent harm.
Hoarding OCD:
Obsessions: Fear of throwing away items, or a belief that these items hold great significance
Compulsions: Collecting or hoarding items, and difficulty discarding them.
Sexual or Religious OCD (Scrupulosity)
Obsessions: Intrusive religious thoughts, fears of moral or ethical wrongdoing.
Compulsions: Mental rituals like praying, seeking reassurance, or avoiding certain places or situations.
Health-related OCD:
Obsessions: Fears of having a serious illness or health issue, even when if is no evidence of one.
Compulsions: Repeatedly checking one's body for signs of illness, seeking reassurance from doctors.
Relationship OCD:
Obsessions: Doubts about the relationship, such as questioning if you love your partner or if they love you.
Compulsions: Seeking reassurance from the partner or evaluating the relationship to alleviate doubts.
Common OCD Types
Back in 2011, one of my first-ever clients was struggling with OCD, and their life was completely consumed by it. I was determined to help, seeking guidance, reading everything I could, and refining my approach. Witnessing them reclaim their life was unforgettable. That experience solidified my commitment to helping others overcome the hold OCD has on their lives.
When it comes to treating OCD, I draw on a variety of evidence-based, tailored approaches to make sure we’re focusing on what works best for you. Here's a quick look at the techniques I use:
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): This is one of the most effective treatments for OCD. It involves gradually facing your fears in a controlled way, helping you build tolerance and reduce the need for compulsive behaviours.
Motivational Interviewing: A collaborative approach that helps you overcome roadblocks that may have been getting in the way of change.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Focuses on building psychological flexibility by helping you accept difficult thoughts and feelings.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing): EMDR can help reduce the impact of past experiences that led to the OCD and reduce the distress associated with current symptoms.
As you’ve no doubt found, resolving OCD is tricky business. I aim to help you work on facing your fears in a way that feels manageable, reducing the unhelpful compulsions, and working on resolving the fears beneath them. We will work towards building a life that isn’t controlled by anxiety.