Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

What is it?

In obsessive compulsive disorder, unwanted and distressing thoughts, images or urges (obsessions) come into a person's mind. To reduce the anxiety they cause, repeated behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) develop. Frequent hand washing, checking, counting, needing things in a certain order, or silently repeating phrases or prayers are some examples.

People with OCD often know their thoughts are exaggerated, but find them very hard to stop. Because the content can feel shameful, they may not tell anyone for a long time. These thoughts do not show who you are or what you want, and they can be worked on.

Common signs

Distressing thoughts that will not go away
Fear of contamination, causing harm or making mistakes
Repeated checking, washing, counting or arranging
Intense unease when rituals are not done
Spending long periods of the day on these behaviours
Avoiding certain situations or objects

These signs alone do not mean a diagnosis; an assessment takes place in an in person or online session.

How can therapy help?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most researched approaches for OCD. In this work we try to understand the cycle of obsessions and compulsions together, and gradually face anxiety provoking situations in a controlled way while practising not turning to rituals. We plan every step together.

Psychodynamic (psychoanalytically informed) therapy can help to understand how the symptoms connect to a person's inner world, need for control and relationships. In the first sessions we decide together which way of working suits you. Every process is personal and no specific outcome can be guaranteed.

Approaches I use in this area

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

A structured approach that looks at the link between thoughts, feelings and behaviour and works on changing unhelpful cycles.

Psychodynamic (psychoanalytically informed) therapy

An approach that explores how past experiences, relationship patterns and feelings outside our awareness shape the present.

When is extra support needed?

The signs listed here do not on their own mean a diagnosis. If OCD symptoms are severe and seriously limit your daily life, medication alongside therapy may help, and I will refer you to a psychiatrist for that assessment. If you also feel deep hopelessness or have thoughts of harming yourself, call 112 right away.

Frequently asked questions

Do my thoughts mean I really want these things?

No. In OCD the intrusive thoughts usually go against a person's values, which is why they are so distressing. Having a thought does not mean you want it or will act on it.

Is every tidy person OCD?

No. Being neat or organised is not OCD. In OCD the thoughts and behaviours cause intense anxiety, take up a lot of time and limit daily life.

Will I need medication for OCD?

For some people therapy alone is enough; for others medication is also recommended. That decision is made by a psychiatrist, and I will refer you if I think it would help.

Every process is personal. Therapy does not guarantee a specific outcome, but it offers a safe space for change.