OCD: Understanding & Overcoming Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health diagnosis marked by obsessions (invasive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce the distress caused by the obsessions). People with OCD may feel trapped in a cycle of fearing that something terrible will happen, performing rituals to prevent it, then feeling temporary relief, followed by return of the intrusive thoughts.
Why OCD deserves specialized attention
• OCD often runs a covert timeline: individuals may suffer for years before diagnosis.
• Many compulsion rituals appear “odd” or hidden — the shame or secrecy can deepen distress and isolation.
• Without appropriate treatment, OCD can significantly interfere with daily functioning — e.g., taking up hours per day, harming relationships, or limiting life choices.
• Importantly: OCD is treatable! With evidence-based interventions (see below) people can regain control.
Evidence-based therapies for OCD
ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention)
A gold-standard behavioral treatment: clients intentionally face the feared stimulus (the “exposure”), then refrain from performing the compulsion (the “response prevention”). Over time, anxiety diminishes and the ritual loses its hold.
Cognitive interventions
Helping clients identify and challenge the distorted beliefs that fuel OCD (e.g., “If I don’t check the door five times, my house will burn down”), and develop more realistic, adaptive thinking.
Medication
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are often used alongside therapy for moderate-to-severe cases.
Integrative approaches
Given your practice focuses on trauma, autism, ADHD, etc., it’s worth noting: comorbid conditions often exist with OCD — so a holistic case formulation that accounts for neurodiversity, trauma history, or ADHD symptoms can boost effectiveness.
When to seek help & what to expect
If you or someone you know is spending a significant portion of the day on rituals, avoiding situations, experiencing distress that affects relationships or work/school, then seeking a clinician trained in OCD (ERP, CBT-OCD) is wise. At initial sessions you’ll typically get: a thorough assessment (OCD symptoms, stressors, history), psychoeducation (how OCD works), treatment planning (e.g., how to pace exposures), and homework assignments.
Why our practice is a good fit
At Theory & Method, we specialize in OCD within a broader trauma/neurodiversity-informed framework. If you’re living with OCD and want a compassionate, skilled team that understands overlapping issues (autism, ADHD, trauma) — we’re here to support your path forward. Reach out today to get started here.