Here is the thing- not all therapy will help treat OCD.
Have you noticed that even when you get reassurance from other people, your anxiety is still there? Or maybe you have tried traditional mindfulness or thought challenging techniques, but yet you’re still bothered by intrusive thoughts. This is because OCD and related disorders (emetophobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, etc) is treated in a unique way— and traditional talk therapy usually doesn’t help much. Unlike some other conditions that primarily involve emotional processing and cognitive restructuring, OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that generate significant distress.
That being said, OCD and related disorders respond better to specialized interventions like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), or Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy because these treatment models are designed to directly target the anxiety and compulsive cycle that sustains the disorder.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
ERP is a cognitive-behavioral therapy technique which revolves around gradually exposing you to distressing situations, thoughts, or objects that trigger their obsessive anxieties. I know, that sounds strange, right? Purposefully exposing yourself to something you’re afraid of? I know, but hear me out: this really works! This is because unlike conventional avoidance strategies, ERP deliberately discourages engaging in the compulsive behaviors or mental rituals that serve to alleviate your anxiety. By facing your fears head-on without resorting to your typical compulsive responses, you will gradually learn that your anxiety diminishes over time, leading to a reduction in the power of their obsessions.
Inference Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT)
Another evidence based treatment provided for OCD that some client’s find helpful is I-CBT. This treatment focuses on identifying and challenging the distorted and anxiety-provoking beliefs underlying obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Through this process, we will explore the evidence for and against these beliefs, and learn to foster a more balanced perspective. That being said, this therapy aims to modify the exaggerated meanings and interpretations attached to intrusive thoughts, ultimately reducing the distress and compulsive responses associated with OCD.
How do I know which treatment will help me?
after we go through the first assessment, I will explain different treatment that I think would best fit your goals! however, ultimately, as the client, you will be the one deciding on how to move forward. Together we will tailor your treatment plan to your values, goals and personality!