OCD Counselling
Living with the symptoms of OCD can be incredibly challenging and overwhelming.
Obsessive-Compulsive-Disorder (OCD) encompasses a variety of symptoms and difficulties that can interfere with nearly every aspect of daily life. Whether OCD is a new challenge for you or something you’ve been managing for years, seeking support can help you navigate the tough moments and celebrate your successes. Our specialized OCD counselling services are here to provide the guidance and care you need. Whether you have a diagnosis of OCD or not, our therapists are here for you.
You are not alone.
If you're struggling with OCD symptoms, you don't have to face them alone. Our experienced therapists are here to support you through every challenge. When you’re ready, reach out for a consultation and get connected with a therapist who understands and can help you on your path to well-being
Definitions and diagnoses are tricky. Many people use the term OCD casually, perhaps not realizing that it is a complex diagnosis with many facets causing much stress to the people who experience it. But whether you are facing mild symptoms or have a diagnosis of OCD that requires psychotherapeutic treatment, we can help.
What is OCD?
According to the International OCD Foundation, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder that affects people of all ages and walks of life, and occurs when a person gets caught in a cycle of obsessions and compulsions, which can become so severe they interfere with daily life.
Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that trigger intensely distressing feelings such as anxiety, guilt, shame and disgust.
Compulsions are behaviours an individual engages in to attempt to get rid of the obsessions and/or decrease their distress.
According to The Canadian Institute for Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, OCD is associated with severe emotional suffering and can seriously affect every aspect of the sufferer’s life: their ability to attend school or work, their self-care and care of loved ones, their family and interpersonal relationships, their quality of life, as well as accessing mental health supports.
Looking for more details about Obsessions and Compulsions?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health:
Obsessions may look like:
Fear of germs or contamination
Fear of forgetting, losing, or misplacing something
Fear of losing control over one’s behaviour
Aggressive thoughts toward others or oneself
Unwanted, forbidden, or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, or harm
Desire to have things symmetrical or in perfect order
Compulsions may look like:
Excessive cleaning or hand washing
Ordering or arranging items in a particular, precise way
Repeatedly checking things, such as confirming the door is locked or the oven is off
Compulsive counting
Praying or repeating words silently
Mental compulsions such as rumination or trying to “figure things out,” neutralising negative thoughts with positive ones, mentally reviewing things.
Sometimes individuals have mild obsessive or compulsive habits that do not reach the level of an OCD diagnosis but these behaviours may still cause the person distress. Remember that if you are experiencing these symptoms then they are valid. Getting support can help a lot.
Therapy can help with OCD symptoms
According to the National Institute for Mental Health, psychotherapy is an effective form of treatment for many people with OCD. Cognitive behavioural therapy, exposure therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy are considered to be the most effective modalities to help people with OCD. If therapy is something that sounds appealing to you, it is important to note that you do not need a diagnosis of OCD to get help.
Curious about your OCD symptoms?
If you want to understand what you' are experiencing better, consider taking this OCD screening quiz to learn more about your symptoms and how they may relate to OCD.
How we can help
If you are wondering whether you have been experiencing OCD or if you need support to work through your thoughts, feelings and experiences relating to OCD, we are here to help. You don’t need a specific diagnosis to access therapy for OCD symptoms and you definitely don’t have to do this alone. We invite you to connect with us and learn about how therapy can help and support you in your healing journey.
We will work with you through all of the challenges of navigating your OCD symptoms.
Average Cost
$140.00 - $160.00 ( per session )*
*Lower rates may be available through our Affordable Counselling program
Want to Know More?
Resources
OCD Challenge - free online program
BounceBack Ontario - a free skill building program