Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Support for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) at Cognitive Counselling
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition that can deeply impact an individual’s thoughts, emotions, and daily life. At Cognitive Counselling, we provide effective, evidence-based support for individuals living with OCD—helping you reduce symptoms, regain control, and build a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Understanding OCD
OCD is marked by a cycle of obsessions (unwanted, intrusive thoughts or urges) and compulsions (repetitive behaviours or mental acts intended to reduce distress). While these behaviours may bring short-term relief, they often reinforce anxiety in the long run, making the cycle difficult to break without support.
Common Symptoms of OCD
Obsessions may include:
-
Fear of contamination or germs
-
A need for symmetry, order, or exactness
-
Aggressive, taboo, or intrusive thoughts
-
Doubts about safety, morality, or responsibility
Compulsions may involve:
-
Excessive handwashing or cleaning
-
Repeated checking (locks, appliances, etc.)
-
Counting, repeating words, or mental rituals
-
Organizing or arranging items in a specific way
When these rituals take more than an hour per day or begin interfering with work, school, or relationships, it may be time to seek support.
How Therapy Helps: Evidence-Based OCD Treatment
At Cognitive Counselling, our therapists use proven strategies to help individuals with OCD understand their patterns, reduce compulsive behaviours, and regain a sense of agency. Therapy may include:
-
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
ERP is the gold-standard treatment for OCD. This approach involves gradually facing feared thoughts or situations (exposure) while learning to resist the urge to perform compulsions (response prevention). Over time, this helps reduce anxiety and weaken the OCD cycle. -
Cognitive Restructuring
Learn to recognize and reframe distorted thoughts and beliefs that fuel obsessions, replacing them with more balanced, compassionate thinking. -
Mindfulness and Acceptance-Based Strategies
Practice sitting with uncomfortable thoughts without judgment, helping reduce reactivity and increase emotional flexibility. -
Relaxation and Coping Skills
Develop tools like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization techniques to reduce anxiety and manage urges. -
Emotional Exploration and Trauma-Informed Care
When appropriate, we explore underlying emotional experiences, core beliefs, or past trauma that may be influencing OCD patterns. -
Lifestyle Support and Routine Building
Support healthy sleep, exercise, and nutrition habits to reduce stress and support your nervous system. -
Social and Relationship Support
Improve communication, reduce the impact of OCD on loved ones, and build a supportive network that understands your journey. -
Developing Flexibility
Learn to tolerate uncertainty, challenge perfectionism, and build cognitive and behavioural flexibility that supports long-term growth.
A Safe Space to Heal
Living with OCD can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Cognitive Counselling, we provide a safe, supportive space where you can work through your challenges at your own pace. With the right tools and support, it is possible to quiet the noise, regain clarity, and build a life beyond compulsions.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward managing OCD, reach out to us. We’re here to support you—every step of the way.
