obsessive compulsive disorder
I use an evidence-based model called Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT).
my approach
ideal for neurodivergent clients
by default, this approach addresses ways that neurodivergence like Autism, ADHD, and cognitive processing disorders can shape and interact with OCD. The model takes the time to help you understand why we're doing what we're doing so that it doesn't feel like conversion therapy.
I won't ask you to lick a toilet seat
While exposures to triggers can help desensitize us, it's not the only possible way to free yourself from the OCD thought/compulsion cycle. Instead of white-knuckling your way through treatment, it can be gentle and structured. This also makes it an ideal model for people with harm OCD who might be extra wary of exposures.
gets you to a higher quality of life than just tolerating uncertainty
It is possible to escape the OCD cycle and learn to actually trust yourself. By learning all the tricks of OCD, you can start to see through it and perceive the reality that is waiting for you outside of the OCD bubble.
phase 3: learn to trust yourself
I will teach you how to rely on sensory information (coming back to your senses!) in order to trust yourself and your perception of reality. You will create a new narrative about your real self to replace the one based on your feared self. You won't need to to argue with your OCD because you will be able to recognize it for what it is.
phase 2: learn how OCD works
OCD has some pretty sneaky tricks that it uses to convince you that imagined possibilities are more important than what you have sensory evidence for in the present moment. By going through examples and getting to know your stories, you will start to be able to see through these tricks and differentiate reasonable concerns from OCD-driven ones.
phase 1: assessment
First, I will work with you to ensure we have an accurate diagnosis and aren't missing any other complexities that might need to be addressed. I use an assessment that recognizes mental compulsions as well as behavioral ones, so it's less likely to miss what some people call obsession-only OCD.
If you are only interested in a diagnosis, we can stop here. Or, we can continue on to the other phases.
What Can I Expect?
While I customize my treatment to each unique individual, when working with OCD, I follow a predictable structure with specific steps within each phase. If you'd like more detail than you see here, I'd be happy to provide it.
resources and research