Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Therapy | Raleigh, NC

About OCD 

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental actions (compulsions) performed in an attempt to relieve the anxiety those thoughts create.

Many people associate OCD with handwashing or being overly organized, but it’s actually a complex condition that can take many different forms. It often varies from person to person, both in content and severity.

The good news is that OCD is treatable, and support is available.

Here are some of the most frequently seen presentations of OCD:

Involves fears related to germs, illness, or environmental toxins. Individuals may engage in frequent handwashing, cleaning, or avoid certain places or people to feel safe.

Compulsions around repeatedly checking things like locks, appliances, or doors to prevent perceived harm or ensure safety.

Intrusive fears about unintentionally harming oneself or others. These thoughts are distressing and often accompanied by intense guilt or avoidance.

A strong need for things to feel balanced, symmetrical, or “just right.” This can lead to repeating actions or arranging objects until they meet a specific internal standard.

Obsessions focused on moral correctness or religious adherence. Common compulsions include excessive praying, confessing, or reassurance seeking.

Persistent doubts about one’s romantic relationship or feelings toward a partner, often resulting in constant questioning or reassurance seeking.

Involves unwanted, intrusive doubts or fears about one's sexual orientation, even when it conflicts with the individual’s identity or values.

Characterized by distressing thoughts without visible compulsions. Mental rituals such as thought reviewing, silent praying, or mental counting are common.

Heightened focus on automatic bodily sensations such as breathing, blinking, or swallowing. This awareness can become a source of anxiety and distraction.

Obsessive fears related to harm coming to one’s baby. These thoughts are unwanted and can be deeply distressing, though they are a recognized and treatable form of OCD.

OCD can be overwhelming and isolating, but there is hope. I use evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help clients confront OCD in a structured, supportive way.

Whether you're experiencing one subtype or a combination, or you're still trying to make sense of what you're going through, therapy can help you gain clarity, build resilience, and reclaim your life from OCD.