Best Online OCD Resources: Therapy, Apps, & Support Groups

NOCD therapists provide ERP for OCD. The cost of therapy with NOCD is $90 for a 30-minute session, $120 for a 45-minute session, and $170 for a 60-minute session. The company allows for flexibility when it comes to selecting a provider and choosing session length and frequency. Typically, therapy with NOCD is done twice weekly for several weeks and then decreases in frequency over time. The exact length of treatment depends on each individual’s treatment plan.

NOCD provides high-quality, helpful, and informative resources. Website visitors have the ability to connect with others, engage in self-guided exercises, and participate in weekly support calls led by a trained therapist. Along with the extensive vault of information-based articles available, users can find customized content based on the specific subtypes of OCD. You can also easily locate a therapist via their directory and utilize their app for easy mobile access.

To learn more about how this platform works, you can read our in-depth review of NOCD.

OCD Challenge is funded by Peace of Mind, a division of IOCDF. The program is intended to be used as a supplement to standard OCD treatment. You can register for the course by responding to a series of questionnaires meant to identify your symptoms, customize program exercises, and track your progress. Educational modules include written content, short videos, and exercises.

OCD Challenge has many self-help exercises for people struggling with OCD. It is a great tool for individuals to further practice coping skills when in therapy or after completing therapy.⁷ Modules incorporate evidence-based OCD treatments, including CBT and ERP tactics. Videos, exercises, and questionnaires help to make the online course more engaging.

The Center for OCD and Anxiety provides both in-person therapy services and free online resources for those with OCD. With a wealth of informative articles, posts, and blogs available on their website, patients can continue to expand their understanding of their condition while receiving top-quality treatment.

The Center for OCD and Anxiety is a reputable source for receiving therapy and treatment for OCD. Their website allows visitors to engage in psychoeducation groups, group therapy activities, therapy appointments, and more. Patients can select their therapist from a directory of clinicians for a customized treatment plan. There is a waitlist at this time for those wishing to use their insurance and we encourage those interested in this program to reach out to the company for more information.

Originally designed as a self-help/mental health app for those with OCD, OCD.app (GG OCD) has since expanded its target market. They now provide resources for a range of other mental health conditions. The main features of the app include methods of identifying negative self-talk or intrusive OCD thoughts. OCD.app (GG OCD) also offers three-minute ‘daily sessions’ with targeted practices and coping skills to help improve one’s mental health.

The  OCD.app (GG OCD) utilizes CBT methods, which can be helpful for those struggling to overcome obsessive thoughts. CBT is considered an evidence-based practice, as it has been proven effective when treating negative symptoms of OCD.⁵ However, it’s important to note that any app should not be considered a substitute for treatment. Research shows that self-help alone is not effective for treating OCD.⁷

PeerVida offers scheduled online support groups via Zoom and sessions generally last around 50 minutes. PeerVida aims to provide a middle ground between typical support groups and professional therapy meetings. Groups are kept small to allow opportunities for all members to participate.

Many who struggle with OCD benefit from hearing relatable stories and receiving peer support. Because of the stigma and misconceptions around OCD, those diagnosed with the condition may go years without proper therapy or treatment.⁸ For this reason, support groups such as PeerVida can be incredibly helpful.

Sessions with PeerVida offer a number of group-oriented features to create a supportive and encouraging environment for members. Users can chime into meetings via computer or mobile device, making for easy access at any time. Group leaders provide a wealth of useful tips and coping strategies, as well as positive feedback.

Everything OCD was founded in 2012 by Leanne Schoenike, a Registered Nurse and mother of a child with OCD. Since then, the community has received attention from credible OCD institutions including NOCD and IOCDF. Everything OCD also offers private online support groups for individuals living with OCD and one for their loved ones.

Research suggests that when used wisely, social media support groups can help those with OCD manage symptoms more effectively.⁹ Engaging in an active and supportive online community brings members together in a safe space to share personal experiences. Peer-to-peer support combined with licensed professional advice works to provide a relaxed and inviting setting to learn important coping skills, treatment methods, and more. While this group doesn’t offer as many resources as other websites, it does fill a need for inclusion and sodality.

The IOCDF began as a small support community in the 80s, and soon grew into a major international foundation. In addition to providing resources and support, they also offer training for mental health professionals to improve the standard of care for OCD. Additionally, IOCDF does a lot behind the scenes including providing training to clinicians, promoting advocacy/volunteering opportunities, and offering reliable information and resources on OCD.

Educational resources include fact sheets, brochures, and articles written by field experts. Users can also take advantage of free newsletters, publication recommendations, community events, and The Peace of Mind virtual group. Livestream events and conferences are offered occasionally for interactive discussions.

Beyond OCD was founded in 2018 and is run by volunteer members and mental health advocates. Their primary information comes in the form of articles, blogs, fact sheets, and short videos. They are passionate about advocating for further research into OCD to uncover more impactful treatment options. The organization is fairly new to the online scene, so they are still working on expanding their database.

The Beyond OCD website provides users with information about support groups, coping skills, and more. For those seeking information regarding a loved one, Beyond OCD provides insightful articles on how to identify symptoms and offer help. Posts with relevant treatment options, recovery guides, and video testimonials can be useful for visitors who are searching for expert advice.

OCD Stories first began broadcasting back in 2015. Since then, it has amassed a large following of loyal listeners. Host Stuart Ralph interviews field experts regarding OCD symptoms, coping skills, treatment options, and more. Their lineup of speakers include bestselling authors such as Russ Harris among other therapists, specialists, and clinicians.

Podcasts such as OCD Stories can be beneficial to those who struggle with finding appropriate resources for managing OCD symptoms. Weekly episodes typically last around an hour and include conversational dialogues focused on sharing personal stories, highlighting OCD related news, and sharing insightful information. Listeners can tune in easily from any device with wifi capabilities.