CBT for OCD

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used and highly effective treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety caused by these thoughts. CBT for OCD focuses on helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and how these contribute to the maintenance of their symptoms. ​

One key component of CBT for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). In ERP, clients are gradually exposed to feared situations or thoughts while being guided to refrain from engaging in their usual compulsive behaviours. This process helps to reduce the anxiety associated with the obsessions and weakens the compulsion's grip over time. Additionally, CBT helps clients challenge and reframe the distorted thinking patterns that fuel their OCD, such as overestimating danger or the importance of intrusive thoughts. 

Through CBT, individuals with OCD learn to tolerate uncertainty and reduce their reliance on compulsions, leading to significant improvements in their ability to manage and reduce symptoms. This evidence-based approach empowers clients to regain control over their lives and diminish the impact of OCD on their daily functioning.