Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by distressing and unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses (obsessions) that result in strong urges to engage in repetitive thoughts or behaviors (compulsions) to reduce this distress. Common OCD symptoms include contamination fears, compulsive checking, intrusive thoughts of a violent or sexual nature, and perfectionism. However, OCD can present itself in many other ways.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that is considered to be the most effective treatment for OCD (with or without medication) based on extensive clinical research over the past 30 years. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), another form of CBT, may also be used to provide specific help for those who may have difficulty tolerating uncomfortable feelings and urges to do compulsions.