Tell Me More About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
3. What are the psychological therapies for OCD?
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder can be effectively treated with psychotherapy. Studies indicate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most effective psychotherapy. CBT assesses the person's specific fears, and discusses coping mechanisms and beliefs so that the person can do the things they fear without the anxiety that triggers their compulsive actions. CBT is also referred to as Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP). CBT / ERP typically involves 16 to 20 weekly sessions, either in an individual or group setting.
Reference
Steketee G and Barlow DH Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (Chapter 15) in DH Barlow (2002) Anxiety and its Disorders: The Nature and Treatment of Anxiety and Panic. 2nd ed. Guilford, NY.
Frost, R.O., & Steketee, G. (Eds.) (2002). Cognitive approaches to obsessions and compulsions: Theory, Assessment, and Treatment; Oxford, UK: Pergamon. |
