By Tom McDonagh, Psy.D.
CA License #: PSY25741
WA License #: PY61408367
Hello, my name is Dr. Tom McDonagh, and I’m from Good Therapy SF, a private practice in downtown San Francisco. We work with many clients who have anxiety and mood disorders.
One common question we receive is about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)—what it is and how we treat it. One of the most effective treatments for OCD is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This approach involves working with your thoughts and behaviors, identifying those that are unhelpful, and teaching new skills or strategies to manage or alleviate the symptoms we’re targeting.
Understanding OCD Symptoms
OCD is characterized by intrusive or ruminative thoughts, images, or urges, often accompanied by repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing the distress these thoughts cause. For instance, a person might perform a certain behavior to lessen the irritation of an intrusive thought. This creates a negative feedback loop, perpetuating the cycle of OCD.
Principle of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
A highly effective method within the CBT framework for treating OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Initially, we introduce coping skills such as breathing techniques or progressive muscle relaxation. Once clients feel confident managing their stress response, we gradually expose them to the intrusive thoughts, allowing them to learn how to tolerate the associated anxiety without resorting to unhelpful behaviors.
Cognitive Restructuring
Another CBT technique for managing OCD is Cognitive Restructuring, which includes tools like thought records. This step-by-step method helps identify irrational thoughts and reframe them in a more objective and helpful manner, gradually teaching a new way of thinking.
We also focus on recognizing cognitive distortions such as catastrophizing or future tripping—assuming the worst will happen either now or in the future. Observing, labeling, and acknowledging these thought patterns can be a powerful step toward change.
Mindfulness and Acceptance
Adjacent to CBT, mindfulness and acceptance strategies teach us to observe our thoughts without judgment. This practice can significantly reduce the impact of intrusive thoughts over time, as it strengthens parts of the prefrontal cortex, making it easier to let these thoughts go.
Working with a professional therapist or psychologist is crucial to tailor these techniques to your unique situation. While each case is different, licensed therapists and psychologists are well-equipped to guide you through these processes, especially within the realm of CBT.
