Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform. While everyone has intrusive thoughts from time to time, OCD involves distressing, intrusive thoughts that are difficult to ignore and compulsions that can interfere with daily life.

OCD can manifest in different ways, including:

• Obsessions – recurrent, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (e.g., fears of contamination, harm, or needing things to be “just right”)

• Compulsions – repetitive behaviors or rituals performed to reduce anxiety (e.g., excessive handwashing, checking, counting, or seeking reassurance)

• Emotional symptoms – intense anxiety, distress, or guilt when obsessions arise

• Cognitive symptoms – difficulty tolerating uncertainty, rigid thinking patterns, or excessive doubt

Living with OCD can be exhausting. I help clients understand how the OCD cycle works and teach strategies like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), CBT, and ACT-based tools to interrupt that cycle with clarity and self-compassion. Whether your OCD is more obvious or more hidden (Pure O), we’ll work together to loosen its grip so that you can begin to live with more ease, flexibility, and freedom.