OCD Counselling

What Is OCD Counselling, CBT, and ERP?

Tired and exhausted from living with obsessions, compulsions and high anxiety? Have you doubted whether you really do have OCD because sometimes things get better, but then it doesn’t last? Do you ever wonder what it would be like to live without spending so much of your life experiencing the high stress that comes with OCD?

What if you could turn down the dial on OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is more than just having recurring thoughts or engaging in repetitive behaviours—it can significantly impact daily life, making it hard to feel in control or at ease. Thankfully, there’s help available.

What kind of help is available at Haven Wellness Inc. for OCD?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a proven, highly effective therapeutic approach that helps you understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a specific form of CBT designed to help you gradually face your fears in a safe, controlled way and reduce compulsive behaviours.

Together, CBT and ERP help you break the cycle of OCD, regain control, to free from being a slave to OCD and allow you to live your life as your True Self!

How Does It Work?

CBT and ERP work by targeting the underlying patterns of OCD. Here’s how:

1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): In CBT, we explore the thoughts and beliefs that fuel your anxiety and compulsions. By challenging and reframing these thoughts, you learn how to respond to them in healthier, more adaptive ways.

2. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): ERP is a critical component of CBT for OCD. In ERP, you are gradually exposed to situations that trigger your anxiety, but withhold the compulsive behaviours you typically use to reduce that anxiety. Over time, this helps you become less reactive to your obsessions and reduces the urge to perform rituals.

With practice, lots of support and patience, these approaches allow you to break free from the control OCD has over your life.

What Can It Help With?

CBT and ERP can be incredibly effective for anyone struggling with:

  • Obsessive thoughts (intrusive, unwanted, and distressing thoughts)

  • Compulsive behaviours (rituals or repetitive actions performed to alleviate anxiety)

  • Anxiety, fear, or stress associated with OCD symptoms

  • Perfectionism and excessive doubt

  • Avoidance behaviours (avoiding situations or places because of obsessive fears)

  • Trichotillomania (Hair-pulling) or skin-picking linked to OCD

  • OCD is a creative disorder and can present in a wide variety of ways, CBT and ERP can help with a variety of presentations

These treatments can provide relief for individuals of all ages, giving you the tools to manage your symptoms and feel in control of your life.

What Changes Do Clients See/Feel?

Clients who engage in CBT and ERP often notice significant improvements, such as:

  • Reduced anxiety: As you confront your fears, your anxiety gradually decreases.

  • Fewer compulsions: You’ll find you can resist the urge to engage in repetitive behaviours.

  • Improved quality of life: As OCD becomes more manageable, you’re able to engage more fully in daily activities.

  • Greater control: Over time, you’ll feel more in control of your thoughts and actions, leading to a sense of relief and empowerment.

  • Greater Self-Understanding and compassion

  • A sense of connection from being supported by a counsellor who gets it

How We're Different

At Haven Wellness, we provide a tailored, compassionate and holistic approach to OCD treatment. What sets us apart?

  1. Personalized care: We understand that everyone’s experience with OCD is unique. Our therapists take the time to understand your specific struggles and develop a treatment plan that works for you.

  2. Holistic Approach: We don’t just focus on OCD symptoms. Along with CBT and ERP, many clients experience benefits from other forms of therapy as well. You and your therapist will establish the right path for you.

  3. Emotion Coaching: We understand that OCD and high anxiety come with a variety of intense and distressing emotions. We are here to support you and increase your ability to support yourself far beyond the therapy room.

  4. Online and in-person options: Whether you prefer to meet in person or from the comfort of your own home, we offer flexible options to make therapy accessible to you.

  • CBT and ERP help by addressing the root causes of your OCD symptoms—your obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. In therapy, you will work with your therapist to challenge unhealthy thought patterns and practice facing your fears in a safe, supportive environment.

  • Yes! Therapy can be done online through secure video sessions. Online therapy provides the same benefits as in-person sessions, with the added convenience of being able to attend from home.

  • If OCD is interfering with your daily life—whether through intrusive thoughts, compulsions, or anxiety—CBT and ERP could be a great fit. If you have engaged in talk therapy and didn’t experience significant change then our approaches may be what you need. We offer a free initial consultation to help you determine whether this approach aligns with your needs and goals.

  • Simply click here to schedule your initial consultation. This consultation provides you with an opportunity to connect with a therapist and get a sense of what it might be like to work with them. If the fit feels right, we will help you take the next steps together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are We Right For You?

We understand that reaching out for help is a big step. We also understand that, ironically, it can feel scary to think about not living with OCD and high anxiety. We are here to support you, whether you’re looking for in-person sessions or prefer online therapy. Our experienced, empathetic therapists are dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental space to help you work through OCD.

If you're ready to take control of your life and make meaningful progress with OCD, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s work together to create a plan that works for you.

Contact us today to get started.

Start Your Journey Today

Reach out now to book your free consultation and take the first step toward feeling more in control.