top of page
3.png

OCD-Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

What is it

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions). Obsessions are intrusive and distressing thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly enter the mind, often involving fears of contamination, harm, or losing control. Compulsions are repetitive behaviours or mental acts performed to alleviate the distress caused by obsessions, such as excessive cleaning, checking, counting, or seeking reassurance.

​

While everyone experiences intrusive thoughts or engages in repetitive behaviours occasionally, OCD is marked by the frequency and intensity of these experiences. The symptoms can be overwhelming and time-consuming, significantly impairing one’s ability to function in daily life. OCD can strain personal relationships, interfere with productivity and concentration at work or school, and lead to a reduced quality of life due to avoidance of triggering situations or activities.

Do you...

Repeatedly engage in unwanted thoughts or behaviours that interfere with daily life.

Struggle with significant anxiety and distress due to your obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.

Want to regain control over your routines and reduce the time consumed by your compulsions.

Find that OCD affects your ability to maintain healthy relationships and wish to strengthen these connections.

Want to identify and learn effective strategies to cope with the triggers that will relieve your OCD symptoms.

Avoid certain situations or places due to the fear of triggering your obsessions or compulsions.

Want to explore the root causes of your stress, including potential limiting beliefs or patterns that contribute to your feelings of overwhelm?

Seek to build resilience and develop healthy ways to manage your OCD symptoms.

Find that stress or life transitions worsen your OCD symptoms and want guidance during these times.

Believe that managing your OCD can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life and want to explore evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to effectively manage your OCD.

"Recovery isn’t about being perfect; it’s about making progress and finding peace in the imperfections."
– Unknown

How can I  help

OCD can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. In our counselling sessions, I offer guidance and support to help you manage and reduce the symptoms of OCD, empowering you to regain control and improve your quality of life. Whether you're struggling with intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviours, or both, I'm here to assist you on your journey to better mental health.

Our journey may include the following components:

We'll begin by exploring the nature of OCD, including the types of obsessions and compulsions and the factors that contribute to the disorder.

Together, we'll identify specific triggers that provoke your obsessions and compulsions, helping you understand the underlying patterns and causes.

I will introduce you to CBT techniques, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), to help you gradually face your fears and resist compulsive behaviours.

We'll practice mindfulness and relaxation strategies to help you manage anxiety and reduce the intensity of obsessive thoughts.

I'll help you create effective coping strategies for handling distressing thoughts and urges without compulsion.

Enhancing your communication skills can reduce stress in interpersonal relationships. We'll focus on assertiveness, conflict resolution, and active listening to improve your interactions and reduce relationship-related stress.

We'll work on enhancing your emotional resilience, enabling you to navigate challenges and stressors more effectively.

We'll focus on improving your daily routines and productivity by minimizing the time and energy consumed by OCD symptoms.

OCD can strain relationships. We'll explore ways to communicate your needs and experiences to others, fostering understanding and support.

I'll help you cultivate self-compassion and acceptance, reducing self-criticism and promoting a more positive self-view.

Together, we'll develop a relapse prevention plan to help you maintain progress and handle potential setbacks effectively.

My ultimate goal is not just to alleviate the symptoms of OCD temporarily but to equip you with lifelong tools for managing and reducing its impact. OCD counselling empowers you with the skills and strategies needed for lasting mental health and well-being, ensuring you navigate life confidently and resiliently. Together, we can create a path toward a more fulfilling and liberated life.

Copyright Notice

All resources provided by "The Integrative Counsellor" are protected by copyright and are intended for personal use only. If you are a therapist, you can use these materials with your clients. However, they are not for resale or redistribution. We appreciate your understanding and respect for our intellectual property.

bottom of page