Therapy For OCD in St. Louis, MO
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive and frequent obsessions and repetitive/ritualistic behaviors. OCD affects males and females equally. In everyday language, people use the word “obsessed” to describe being preoccupied with something, which may have a positive quality. However, OCD can be a debilitating condition that impacts your work, relationships, or school.
OCD Has Two Components:
- Obsessions: thoughts, images, or impulses that occur over and over again, and the person feels unable to control
- Compulsions or rituals: repetitive behaviors or thoughts a person uses to neutralize, counteract, or eliminate their obsessions
Compulsions are typically the most impairing aspect of OCD. People with this condition can spend hours each day performing their rituals, avoid places or situations where they would be unable to perform their compulsions, and experience extreme distress if unable to perform their rituals.
What Is It Like to Have OCD?
Your behavior seems odd or annoying to others, but they don’t realize why you do this. If you were to explain your behavior, it would go something like this – when you think about something, all the awful things that could happen race through your head, and distracting yourself doesn’t work. The only things that help are the compulsive behaviors – checking, cleaning, and endlessly working until it’s right! You realize this isn’t logical on some level, but the urge to perform these rituals is overwhelming!
Rituals work – but just for the moment. Those compulsive behaviors bring relief from the anxiety for a short time. The thoughts come back. So do your compulsive behaviors. It’s a vicious cycle. This cycle consumes so much of your day! You can’t seem to do the things you want or need to do. It seems impossible to stop this behavior.
But There’s Hope
We can help you break the cycle. There is a massive misconception about what Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) looks like in real life. Our goal is to help you understand and recognize these behaviors in your daily life so you can disrupt the cycle.
We will not tell you to stop. You’ve heard that before – and it isn’t possible! That’s not realistic, and it doesn’t help. Our clients slowly decrease their compulsive behaviors by using practical and evidence-based strategies. You will learn skills to help you manage anxiety and obsessions more healthily. Over time, our clients get back to the activities that matter most to them without getting caught in the vicious cycle of OCD/OCPD!
How Do I Know If I Need Therapy for OCD?
Recognizing the need for therapy is an essential step towards managing OCD. If you find that your obsessions and compulsions are consuming a significant amount of your time, causing distress, or interfering with your daily functioning, it is likely time to seek professional help. Additionally, if you are unable to control your obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors despite trying, therapy can provide the necessary support and strategies to help you regain control.
Reasons to Seek Therapy
Seeking therapy for OCD offers numerous benefits. Therapy can help you understand the underlying causes of your obsessions and compulsions, reduce the frequency and intensity of these symptoms, and improve your overall quality of life. Professional guidance can provide you with effective coping mechanisms and strategies to manage and reduce the impact of OCD on your daily life. It can also help you break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions, allowing you to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
What Should I Expect From OCD Therapy?
When you begin therapy at GBH Consultants, the process starts with a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms, medical history, and personal circumstances. This assessment helps us tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs. During therapy, you will work closely with a licensed therapist in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Therapy for OCD typically involves Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP involves gradually exposing you to the thoughts or situations that trigger your obsessions while preventing the compulsive behavior that usually follows. This process helps you learn to tolerate the anxiety associated with your obsessions and reduces the compulsion over time.
You Are Encouraged to Come to Therapy With Something You Want to Work Through With Your Therapist
This approach allows you to address issues that are important to you. Contrary to what you may think, your therapist will not tell you what to do; instead, they will walk with you as you navigate your journey. They will listen to and support you, discuss different ways and strategies to address your specific needs and help you figure out what option feels right for you.
Therapy for OCD involves learning to face your fears in a supported and controlled setting. Our therapists will explain the rationale behind treatment for OCD and work with you at a manageable pace. The goal is for you to learn to cope with anxiety and not let it hold you back from living!
How Therapy is Beneficial
Therapy for OCD can be profoundly beneficial. It helps you understand the nature of your disorder and equips you with the tools to manage and reduce your symptoms. Over time, therapy can lead to significant reductions in the frequency and intensity of your obsessions and compulsions.
This can result in improved daily functioning, better relationships, and a higher overall quality of life. Additionally, therapy can enhance your self-awareness and empower you to take control of your mental health.
Next Steps to Move Forward with OCD Therapy
If you recognize that OCD is affecting your life and you are ready to seek help, the next steps are straightforward. Begin by contacting GBH Consultants to schedule an initial consultation. During this consultation, you will discuss your symptoms and concerns with one of our experienced therapists, who will then guide you through the assessment process. This will involve a detailed evaluation to understand the specific nature of your OCD and to develop a personalized treatment plan.
The easiest way to take that next step is to schedule a free phone consultation with our intake coordinator. On this call, we’ll help determine which of our therapists is the best fit and can answer any questions you might have about the therapy process.
Once your treatment plan is in place, you will start regular therapy sessions tailored to your needs. These sessions will provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and behaviors and work on strategies to manage your OCD. Our team will support you throughout your journey, offering continuous guidance and adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.
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Schedule your Consultation Call Now
At GBH Consultants, we are committed to helping you achieve lasting improvement. By choosing our services, you are taking a crucial step towards managing your OCD and enhancing your quality of life. If you or a loved one is struggling with OCD, reach out to us today to begin your path to recovery. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Click the button below or schedule a free consultation call with our office at
(314) 325-2685.
