For OCD, I utilize a cognitive-behaviour therapy approach. More specifically, gradual exposure occur in order to challenge the specific thoughts and behaviours being experienced.
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW Registered Social Worker/ Psychotherapist
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder that affects people of all ages. Obsessions are unwanted intrusive thoughts, images or urges that trigger distress. Compulsions are behaviours that individuals engage in to try to get rid of the obsessions and/or decrease the distress. OCD treatment can be really difficult and requires a lot of support. I am here to help. I have specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and also use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to treat OCD.
I like to help clients let go of the need to control everything. Often the cost of preventing bad things from happening is greater than the cost of the bad things actually happening. I often use CBT to do structured work beginning with psychoeduction particularly around the causes of OCD and what is maintaining it. Then an examination of unhelpful thoughts specifically targeting the client's thoughts about the intrusive thoughts. Often followed by Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) where the client is aided in reducing compulsive behaviour.