Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by a cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that trigger distress. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented type of psychotherapy that helps individuals manage their symptoms. Here is what to expect at CBT sessions:
Getting a Psychiatric Evaluation
The first step in the therapeutic process is a psychiatric evaluation. During this session, you may be asked questions about your thoughts and behaviors. The clinician typically gathers information about your symptoms, including when they started, how they affect your daily life, and what you have tried to do to manage them. You can also discuss your personal and family medical history. This detailed evaluation allows the therapist to make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
Completing Medical Exam
Following a psychiatric evaluation, your provider may recommend a medical exam. A medical doctor can perform a physical examination to rule out any underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to your symptoms. Certain physical health issues can mimic or worsen symptoms of anxiety disorders.
This exam may include lab tests, such as blood work, to assess any physiological factors. A thorough medical check-up provides a baseline for your physical health. This step helps confirm that the symptoms are related to OCD and not another medical issue, allowing the focus of treatment to be appropriately placed on psychological interventions.
Identifying Negative Thought Patterns
A core component of CBT involves identifying negative thought patterns. You may work with your therapist to become more aware of your obsessions and the meanings you attach to them. This process involves examining your thoughts to understand how they lead to compulsive behaviors. You will learn to recognize cognitive distortions, which are irrational ways of thinking that contribute to anxiety. Some typical distortions in OCD include:
- Overestimating threats
- Feeling an inflated sense of responsibility
By verbalizing and writing down your thoughts, you and your therapist can analyze them together. This step is about observation and recognition. You learn to see the connection between your thoughts, the anxiety they produce, and the compulsions you perform to find relief.
Learning Helpful Tools
Once you have identified your thought patterns, the next phase is learning helpful tools to change your response to them. This process starts with situations that cause mild anxiety and slowly progresses to more challenging exposures. Your therapist will guide you through this, providing support and techniques to manage the distress without resorting to compulsions. Over time, this practice helps you learn that you can manage the anxiety without performing rituals.
Get Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for OCD
Therapy begins with a thorough evaluation to obtain a precise diagnosis and rule out other potential causes. The therapy aims to equip you with practical tools that are designed to change your relationship with obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. This approach is an active one, requiring your participation both in and out of sessions. If you are ready to explore how CBT can help with your OCD symptoms, reach out to a qualified professional. Contact a clinic today to schedule a consultation and learn more about treatment programs.
