Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves a repetitive cycle of intrusive, unwanted thoughts or images and a behavior or action intended to alleviate the anxiety associated with the thought or sensation. The behavior can be related or unrelated to the distressing thought and sometimes the compulsion *is* thinking.
Common themes of OCD include:
-Contamination/germs
-Violent/harm thoughts that are distressing and unwanted
-Responsibility obsessions
-Moral/religious obsessions
-Perfectionism obsessions
-Sexual obsessions (that are distressing and unwanted)
-Identity obsessions (doubt in self)
If you think you or your child may have OCD, please reach out to schedule an assessment. On average, it takes over 7 years for individuals to obtain a proper diagnosis. This is often due to misconceptions about OCD from treatment providers as well as difficulty for individuals to express their fears in a way that "makes sense" to others. Symptoms of OCD often appear in childhood and may change shape and form over the lifetime. Starting treatment as soon as possible can help set up a child for success in learning to recognize their OCD symptoms and create strategies that support them challenging OCD across the lifespan.
As an OCD specialist, it is my honor and privilege to support folks suffering from OCD to find the courage to face their fears and regain control over their life. Seeking counseling for OCD can be daunting and many people report having negative experiences in the past with providers who were not specialized in treating OCD. I have been specialized in treating OCD and anxiety disorders for over 8 years and keep up with latest research and training.
If you or your child is suffering from OCD, please reach out. I would love to support you in gaining the skills you need to not just survive OCD but thrive!