How I work with OCD
Living with OCD can feel like being caught in an exhausting loop - a push and pull between intrusive thoughts and the need to find relief through compulsive behaviours.
But to me, OCD isn’t a sign that something is ‘wrong.’ Rather, I see it as a brain’s very creative strategy to find soothing in the face of overwhelm and uncertainty. It’s a resourceful effort to feel safe, where this protective ‘energy’ is misdirected into behaviours that can sometimes bring more harm than relief.
Understanding OCD in this way welcomes in compassion - which is so needed when we’re suffering with such internal conflict. Rather than seeing ourselves as broken or faulty, we recognise our suffering as a protective intention that’s gone awry.
When I work with OCD, I take a tandem approach. I believe that real change happens when we explore both the ‘what’ - the behavioural patterns that keep OCD going - and the ‘why’ - the deeper emotional experiences and stories that fuel the need for these strategies. This understanding creates space to choose something different, and that’s where true power lies.
A blended approach to support healing
To address the behavioural side of OCD, I might lean into Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT supports our relationship to thoughts - it’s not about avoiding or distracting from them, but rather, helping the thoughts and fears feel less threatening. This is a skillset for life - not just for OCD.
ACT helps us gently notice the thoughts and feelings that show up without immediately needing to react or ‘fix’ them. Through ACT, we explore how to loosen the grip of compulsions by connecting with values and learning to tolerate uncertainty with more ease.
But my specialism and passion lies in understanding ‘the why.’ I draw on a rich foundation of person-centred therapy, psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to explore how past experiences, relationships, and ways of coping may have shaped the patterns that drive OCD. Together, we can begin to make sense of the deeper reasons that led to this need for control and safety, giving you the clarity to rewrite that story from a place of compassion.
Recovery is possible
I believe full recovery from OCD is absolutely possible. It’s a journey that takes commitment, patience, and curiosity - and there’s no ‘quick fix.’ But when we begin to understand what’s happening, we take our power back. With that knowledge, you can step away from the cycle of fear and move toward choices that align with who you truly are, beyond OCD.
Finding the right fit
Therapy is deeply personal, and every therapist works a little differently. It’s so important to find someone whose approach aligns with your needs and values. If you’re curious about how we might work together, I’d love to hear from you.