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Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Counselling in London | Treatment & Therapy

What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (also known as OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by obsessive and/or compulsive symptoms that cause intense anxiety and fear.

Obsessions can be defined as recurrent, repetitive and persistent thoughts, impulses or images, experienced as intrusive and unwanted. Often those affected by obsessions try to ignore or suppress such thoughts or attempt to neutralise them with other thoughts or actions, without however succeeding. Obsessive thoughts are unpleasant. They can cause fear, anxiety, tension or even disgust.

Compulsions can be defined as repetitive behaviours or actions that the individual feels obliged to implement in response to  obsession(s) or according to rules that must be applied rigidly. Compulsions can be seen as actions that are aimed at preventing or reducing anxiety. However, these behaviours or actions are not realistically connected with what they are designed to neutralise or prevent, or are clearly excessive.


Signs of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

According to the DSM-5, common signs that an individual may be struggling coping with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder include the following:

A. The presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both. Obsessions are defined by:

1. Recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges, or impulses that are experienced, at some time during the disturbance, as intrusive and unwanted, and that in most individuals cause marked anxiety or distress.

2. The individual attempts to ignore or suppress such thoughts, urges, or images, or to neutralize them with some other thought or action.

Compulsions are defined by:

1. Repetitive behaviours (e.g., hand washing, ordering, checking) or mental acts (e.g., praying, counting, repeating words silently) that the individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsession or according to rules that must be applied rigidly.

2. The behaviours or mental acts are aimed at preventing or reducing anxiety or distress, or preventing some dreaded event or situation; however, these behaviors or mental acts are not connected in a realistic way with what they are designed to neutralize or prevent, or are clearly excessive.

B. The obsessions or compulsions are time-consuming or cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.


Treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in London

It is possible to treat OCD and therapy can be a useful tool to help you deal with your OCD problems. The most effective treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

For more information about talking therapies and treatment programmes available at our Clinics in London please visit our Treatment page.


Getting Therapy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in London

We offer Psychological Therapies for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder treatment at our clinics in Central London.


Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Counselling in London - Team

All our Therapists offer Psychological Therapy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Click here to meet the Team.


Fees

Sessions with our Psychologists are by prepaid appointments only. You can find out more about our fees on our Fees Page.


Further Reading about OCD

Please click here to view a comprehensive list of blogs about OCD. Additionally, with the rise of technology, you now have access to applications you can use on your phone. Please click here to view an app created by the OCD community to help you manage your OCD. It is important to note that the aforementioned self-help tools are best used in addition to working with your therapist.

Recent Blog Posts on OCD

Recent Blog Posts on OCD

OCD Toolbox: Essential Tools and Techniques for Managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

By The International Psychology Clinic | 3 July 2023
OCD Toolbox: Essential Tools and Techniques for Managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be challenging, but with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to effectively manage the condition and improve one’s quality of life. In this article, we will explore essential tools and techniques for …

OCD Toolbox: Essential Tools and Techniques for Managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder READ MORE

Taming the Intrusive Mind: Coping with Obsessive Thoughts in OCD

By The International Psychology Clinic | 3 July 2023
Taming the Intrusive Mind: Coping with Obsessive Thoughts in OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. One of the defining features of OCD is the presence of intrusive thoughts that can be distressing and challenging to manage. In this article, we will …

Taming the Intrusive Mind: Coping with Obsessive Thoughts in OCD READ MORE

Living with OCD: Navigating Daily Challenges and Finding Relief

By The International Psychology Clinic | 3 July 2023
Living with OCD: Navigating Daily Challenges and Finding Relief

Living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. The constant battle with intrusive thoughts and the urge to perform repetitive rituals can significantly impact one’s daily life. However, with the right support and strategies, it is …

Living with OCD: Navigating Daily Challenges and Finding Relief READ MORE

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