Clinical Psychology for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be an exhausting and frustrating experience. Those who struggle with OCD often find themselves caught in a cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours that can significantly impact their daily lives.
Intrusive thoughts, or obsessions, are unwanted and often distressing ideas, images, or urges that repeatedly enter a person’s mind. These thoughts can revolve around a wide range of themes, such as contamination, harm, symmetry, relationships, or taboo subjects. For someone with OCD, these thoughts are not merely passing concerns but persistent worries that cause significant anxiety.
To alleviate the distress caused by these obsessions, individuals with OCD often engage in compulsive behaviours. These are repetitive actions or mental rituals performed to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared outcome. Common compulsions include excessive hand washing, checking locks or appliances repeatedly, counting, or mental rituals like silently repeating phrases, reviewing the past or trying to block thoughts.
The struggle with OCD extends beyond the time consumed by obsessions and compulsions. Many individuals with OCD experience:
- Guilt and shame about their thoughts and behaviours
- Difficulty concentrating on work or studies
- Strained relationships due to time-consuming rituals or seeking reassurance
- Physical exhaustion from performing compulsions
- Social isolation to avoid triggers or hide symptoms
It’s important to note that OCD is a treatable condition. With proper assessment and evidence-based treatments OCD symptoms can be reduced and even fully resolved. Newer cutting edge treatments are available at Flexible Psychology, such as Inference-Based CBT. Feel free to contact us to find out more.
Flexible Psychology provides online therapy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). You can use most devices that connect to the internet. Alternatively, phone sessions can be offered.
With an Australian Medicare rebate, the out of pocket expense for a 50 minute therapy session is AU$114.75. Alternatively there are options for the use of private health insurance. See the Fees page for more information.
Flexible Psychology provides therapy for clients aged 16 and up who struggle with OCD. International clients are welcome (excludes USA and Canada due to jurisdictional guidelines).