Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, involves having obsessive thinking patterns that can include unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that make a person feel anxious or distressed. Those with OCD also have compulsive behaviors, which are an attempt to reverse the obsessive thoughts or urges by performing some sort of action.
At Connect Cognitive Therapy, we provide compassionate, evidence-based OCD therapy for adults and adolescents living with obsessive-compulsive disorder in Mississauga, Ontario. Our team includes experienced psychologists, psychotherapists, and social workers who work collaboratively to help individuals better understand and manage their symptoms. Using a tailored approach and practical strategies, we create lasting change.
Understanding OCD and How It Can Affect a Person
Therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder begins with understanding how OCD shows up in your life. OCD is more than just being neat or organized—it involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental rituals (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety. Common signs of OCD, according to the Mayo Clinic, are:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Constant checking
- Constant counting
- The repeated cleaning of one or more items
- Constantly checking the stove or door locks
- Fear of contamination
- Hoarding
- Thoughts that you might be harmed
- Thoughts that you might cause others harm
Symptoms might include excessive checking, cleaning, counting, or needing things to feel “just right.” These patterns can become distressing and time-consuming, interfering with relationships, work, and daily functioning. If one or more of the above symptoms resonates with you, we encourage you to look into OCD therapy. Research shows that the most effective treatments for OCD are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and/or medication.