What are Obsessions and Compulsions?

Obsessions are recurring thoughts, images or impulses that are highly intrusive, unwanted and distressing. Over time, obsessions cause anxiety.

What are examples of Obsessions?

  • Fears of contamination

  • Fears of harm

  • Intrusive, unwanted sexual thoughts

  • Religious or moral concerns

  • Order or arranging

  • “Magical Thinking”

  • Perfectionism

What are Compulsions?

Compulsions can be either physical or mental acts a person does in order to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared catastrophe. These mental or physical acts are not, in reality, connected to obsessions and typically are excessive.

What are examples of Compulsions?

  • Washing or cleaning

  • Checking (Ex: repeatedly checking if stove is off or water faucet is off)

  • Repeating (a task, re-reading, re-writing)

  • Counting

  • Seeking reassurance, confessing

What is an example of A Mental Compulsion?

  • Excessive self-assurance

  • Changing out “bad thoughts” for “good” ones

  • Praying, counting, list making, neutralizing thoughts.

What is Exposure, Response and Prevention Therapy, or ERPT?

ERPT is a powerful, clinically effective behavioral therapy that can help vanquish the obsessions and compulsions so you can live your best life. ERPT is often referred to as “The Gold Standard” treatment for OCD. This therapy is collaborative and requires regular, in-between session work by clients as well as strong engagement by both therapist and client.