Therapy for OCD in Portland, OR

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.

1. Obsessions: thoughts, images, or impulses that occur over and over again, and the person feels unable to control
2. 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. 

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.

We can help you break the cycle. There is a substantial 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. That’s not realistic, and it does not 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 patients get back to the activities that matter most to them without getting caught in the vicious cycle of OCD/OCPD.

When you begin therapy at Forest Psychological Clinic, the process starts with an initial phone consultation with a therapist. If you are a good fit for therapy, you meet in person for  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.