Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessions

Obsessions are unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses that reoccur and elicit distress. These obsessions likely leave one feeling out of control. Often intrusions are disturbing, and many can identify their irrational nature. This does not mean the feelings accompanied with the obsessions “aren’t real”, in fact the are, and palpable.

Compulsions

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors and/or thoughts. The intention of following through with a compulsion is to neutralize a distressing thought/image/impulse. Initially, the individual may experience some relief, however, these compulsions become time consuming. Examples of compulsions include checking, washing, etc.

Treatment

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an evidence-based form of therapy utilizing a technique called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). The individual is taught an array of skills to manage exposure work in order to obtain habituation. Habituation is a decreased response to a particular stimulus after repeated presentations. Response prevention is used to “block” behaviors that perpetuate the cycle of OCD.