Hailey Shafir, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
January 31, 2023
Learn More About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that causes intense anxiety due to intrusive thoughts (obsessions), resulting in a need to engage in repetitive behaviors (compulsions). OCD is treatable with medication and/or therapy. Below you’ll find a variety of resources that can help you understand and deal with OCD.
Featured Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Articles
Hailey Shafir, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
July 13, 2022
Resources for Dealing with OCD
Sidney Deupree, MA, LPC, NCC
CBT for OCD: How It Works, Examples & Effectiveness
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be highly beneficial in treating obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Most people who receive CBT treatment for OCD start noticing improvements within weeks.
February 22, 2023
Emily Guarnotta, PsyD
Medication for OCD: Types, Side Effects, & Effectiveness
Treatment for OCD can include medication and therapy. There are several different types of medications that are effective for treating OCD, but SSRIs are typically preferred because they are safe and effective. People with OCD who are taking medication can expect to notice improvements in around 8 to 12 weeks.
February 16, 2023
Hailey Shafir, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Best Online OCD Resources: Therapy, Apps, & Support Groups
Combined with treatment, online resources can be beneficial for those living with OCD. Mental health apps, online publications, teletherapy, and support groups are all great options to consider when searching for effective treatment plans.
July 13, 2022
Types of OCD
Leslie Shapiro, LICSW
Somatic OCD: Definitions, Symptoms, & Treatment
People with somatic OCD are not worried that their bodies aren’t functioning normally but rather distressed because they notice them happening.
February 6, 2023
Leslie Shapiro, LICSW
Symmetry OCD: What it is, Symptoms, & Treatment
Symmetry OCD causes anxiety and distress to sufferers who become preoccupied when things aren’t visually the same down the middle, lined up perfectly, or not perfectly ordered. They have difficulty focusing on anything else until the items align.
October 13, 2022
Andrea Brognano, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Real Event OCD: What It Is, Symptoms, & Treatment
Real Event OCD is a disorder marked by obsessive thoughts regarding past events that one feels resulted in negative impacts. A person is filled with guilt or regret, as they believe that their own actions or behavior caused these effects. Fortunately, there are both therapeutic and medicinal treatments available for those struggling with this condition.
December 13, 2022
OCD and Other Conditions
Kaley Leshem, LCSW
OCD & Eating Disorders: Connections, Symptoms, & Treatments
Eating Disorders (EDs) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are psychiatric conditions that often co-occur. Due to the similar nature of ED and OCD behaviors, it can be challenging to decipher if an individual is struggling with an ED, OCD, or both. Obsessive thoughts and compensatory behaviors are central to both conditions. Understanding similarities, differences, and overlap between EDs and OCD can be helpful for seeking help and receiving the most effective treatment.
October 7, 2022
Leslie Shapiro, LICSW
OCD Comorbidity: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, & More
While the most common comorbid disorder of OCD is depression, with others including; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; body dysmorphic disorder; panic disorder; autistic spectrum disorder; eating disorders; and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder and borderline personality disorder or traits are often comorbid with OCD.
November 15, 2022
Hailey Shafir, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
OCD & Narcissism: Links, Causes, & Treatment
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) share similar symptoms and risk factors, including high levels of perfectionism, a need for control, and rigid thought and behavior patterns. While it’s not uncommon for the conditions to be co-occurring, having both NPD and OCD leads to severe symptoms that require more intensive treatments, such as psychotherapy and psychiatric medication.
December 7, 2022
More Articles About OCD
Melissa Boudin, PsyD
17 Best OCD Podcasts
From looking for practical advice from a licensed practitioner or wanting to hear from others, here are 17 OCD podcasts for you to listen to.
June 7, 2023
Melissa Boudin, PsyD
21 Best OCD Youtube Channels
Our top picks for the best OCD Youtube channels to watch can give a better idea of what living with OCD is like, while also giving tips and tricks to help manage the compulsions. The great thing about technology like this is to hear other people’s stories regarding their OCD, and symptoms, and to feel a sense of community.
June 7, 2023
Robert Hinojosa, LCSW
OCD & Sex: Impacts, Treatment, & How to Cope
For individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) experiencing sexual dysfunction, medical and biological causes should be ruled out before psychological factors are considered. Some OCD medication can cause sexual dysfunction, and sometimes specific obsessions can affect sexual performance.1 While OCD can cause sexual challenges, there are strategies to manage OCD and sex issues.
May 23, 2023