Therapy for OCD
New York & Florida
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can include an exhausting cycle of unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors that are difficult to resist. People with OCD often experience intrusive, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and engage in certain actions or mental rituals (compulsions) to reduce anxiety or prevent something bad from happening. These patterns begin because in the short-term, compulsions tend to work! -- anxiety goes down; a sense of certainty is found; it’s confirmed the bad outcome did not happen. Unfortunately, the relief is usually short-lived and anxiety comes back. For many people with OCD, obsessions and compulsions intensify over time and can feel like a rollercoaster of emotions.
Some people relate to the idea of OCD being called “the doubting disorder” because OCD makes us question what we really know in a search for certainty.
OCD shows up in many ways—often in ways that are surprising or deeply personal.
Contamination OCD: Obsessions about germs, illness, or dirt, often accompanied by compulsions like excessive cleaning or washing, as well as avoidance of certain places, objects, or people to prevent contamination.
Checking OCD: Obsessions about potential harm, mistakes, or accidents (such as leaving something unlocked or unchecked), leading to compulsions like repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or seeking reassurance.
Symmetry, Order, or “Just Right” OCD: Obsessions about things needing to feel balanced, symmetrical, or "just right," leading to compulsions like arranging, ordering, or repeating actions until they feel correct.
Harm OCD: Obsessions involving intrusive fears of accidentally or intentionally harming oneself or others, often leading to compulsions such as checking for signs of harm, mental reviewing, or seeking reassurance. Avoidance of certain people, objects, or situations is also common.
Sexual, Religious, or Moral Obsessions (Scrupulosity): Obsessions involving thoughts that feel taboo, immoral, or blasphemous, leading to compulsions such as mental reviewing, confessing, or seeking reassurance. Avoidance of triggering situations or content may also occur.
Perinatal/Postpartum OCD: Obsessions about harm coming to one’s baby, often involving violent or disturbing imagery, leading to compulsions such as checking, mental reassurance, or seeking reassurance from others. Avoidance of caretaking tasks or certain situations may also develop.
Relationship OCD (ROCD): Obsessions involving doubts about one’s relationship, partner, or feelings, accompanied by compulsions like overanalyzing, comparing, or seeking reassurance to feel certain.
Sexual Orientation OCD (SO-OCD) / Gender Identity OCD: Obsessions involving persistent doubts or questioning about one’s sexual orientation or gender identity, often accompanied by compulsions like mental checking, analyzing past experiences, or seeking reassurance. Avoidance of certain social situations or media may also occur.
Fear of Blurting Out Obscenities or Inappropriate Comments: Obsessions about impulsively shouting offensive, inappropriate, or blasphemous words, leading to compulsions such as mental suppression, rehearsing conversations, or seeking reassurance. People may also avoid certain social situations to prevent the feared outcome.
Common Subtypes of OCD
What is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)?
The good news is OCD is highly treatable, no matter the form it takes. The gold-standard, evidence-based approach is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
ERP is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that helps you gradually face the thoughts, images, or situations that trigger anxiety—while learning to resist the urge to engage in compulsions. Over time, this process reduces the power OCD holds, allowing you to regain a sense of freedom and control.
It’s completely normal for ERP to sound intimidating at first. Of course you won’t be doing it alone. We’ll work together, step by step, at a pace that feels manageable for you. Many people find that with practice and support, their anxiety lessens and they can live life on their terms again.
What to Expect in OCD Therapy
A non-judgmental, supportive space where intrusive thoughts are understood—not judged.
Skills and tools tailored to your specific subtype and individual experience of OCD.
Practical strategies to help you reconnect with what truly matters to you—without OCD calling the shots.