Guide To Effective OCD Treatment Options

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a treatment used for a variety of mental health conditions. In addition to treating OCD, cognitive-behavioral therapy can be used to treat depression, other anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders. The therapy uses two techniques to help a patient change their thought patterns and behaviors. One is cognitive therapy, and the other is exposure and response prevention. Obsessive-compulsive disorder patients who undergo cognitive behavioral therapy should do so with a therapist who has specific training in OCD. The majority of CBT treatment will be conducted weekly in a therapist's office, though patients will also be given at-home exercises to practice between sessions. Some individuals with severe OCD might need to have more frequent therapy sessions. When undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy, patients learn how to become aware of their thought patterns and combat them. When experiencing the urge to do irrational things, patients are encouraged to lean into the opposite of their desired action. For example, if something makes them feel irrational guilt, they're encouraged to do it again until the guilt response isn't as strong.

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