When intrusive thoughts and rituals take over daily life.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder—commonly known as OCD—is a mental health condition that involves persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental rituals (compulsions). While it’s often portrayed in the media as simply being “extra tidy” or “a bit particular,” the reality is far more complex—and for many, far more distressing.
OCD can affect anyone, at any age, and often causes significant emotional distress. For those living with it, it’s not about choice—it’s about feeling compelled to perform certain actions in order to ease anxiety or prevent imagined harm.

What Does OCD Look Like?
OCD presents in many different forms, and not all are obvious. While some people engage in visible behaviours like repeated cleaning or checking, others experience more hidden mental compulsions that can be just as consuming.

Common symptoms and examples include:

Obsessions – intrusive, distressing thoughts or images, such as:

• Fear of germs or contamination
• Thoughts of harming others (especially loved ones)
• Doubts about having done something wrong (e.g. “Did I lock the door?”)
• Unwanted sexual, religious, or violent thoughts
• A need for things to feel “just right”

Compulsions – behaviours or mental rituals done to reduce anxiety, such as:

• Excessive handwashing, cleaning, or ordering items
• Repeated checking (e.g. appliances, locks, health symptoms)
• Counting, repeating words, or praying in specific ways
• Seeking constant reassurance from others
• Avoiding people, objects, or situations that trigger intrusive thoughts

For some, OCD can take the form of purely mental rituals—for instance, someone might experience disturbing thoughts about harming their children and, in a state of fear, begin avoiding time alone with them or ask a partner to hide sharp objects. It’s crucial to understand: the presence of these thoughts does not mean there is any intention to act on them. The distress comes precisely because these thoughts feel so out of character.

How Therapy Can Help with OCD
OCD thrives in secrecy and fear. Therapy helps bring clarity and calm. We use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), often including a technique called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), to help you:

Understand what your obsessions and compulsions mean (and don’t mean)

Learn to tolerate uncertainty without acting on compulsions

Reduce the power that intrusive thoughts hold over you

Reclaim your time, your energy, and your peace of mind

With support, it’s entirely possible to live a full and meaningful life—without being ruled by OCD.

You Don’t Have to Face OCD Alone
If you’re struggling with intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviours, there is help—and there is hope. Start by booking a free 15-minute introductory call to explore how therapy can support you.