Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterised by persistent and unwanted thoughts, feelings, or urges (obsessions) that can lead to repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) that the person feels driven to perform. These compulsions are often aimed at reducing the distress caused by the obsessions, but they can become excessive and disruptive to the person's daily life.

What causes OCD?

The exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Stressful life events, such as trauma or infection, have also been linked to the onset of OCD. Research has suggested a link between OCD and irregular levels of serotonin, the chemical that sends messages to the brain.

Treatment for OCD

OCD is a treatable condition, and there are several evidence-based treatment options. The most commonly used treatments for OCD are cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and medications.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is a talk therapy that aims to change a person's thinking and behaviour. It is effective in reducing symptoms. CBT for OCD typically involves two components: exposure and response prevention (ERP) and cognitive therapy.

ERP involves gradually exposing the person to the things that trigger their obsessions and compulsions while preventing them from performing their usual compulsions. This helps them learn that their obsessions can be tolerated without performing the compulsions.

Cognitive therapy involves identifying and challenging the negative, irrational and unhelpful thoughts and beliefs that underlie the person's obsessions and compulsions.

Pharmacological treatments, such as antidepressants, are sometimes used to treat OCD. Medications can assist the brain to restore an average chemical balance. Medication must be prescribed by a medical professional such as a GP or psychiatrist. They can assess whether medication is a suitable line of treatment for the individual.

Research suggests that combining therapy and medication may also be effective in treating OCD.

Overall, both therapy and medication can be effective in treating OCD, and the choice of treatment should be individualised based on the person's symptoms, preferences, and circumstances.

In addition to CBT and medications, other treatment options for OCD include:

• Family therapy: This is a type of therapy that involves the person with OCD and their family members. It can help family members understand the disorder and how to support their loved ones.

• Group therapy: This is a type of therapy that involves a group of people with OCD who meet regularly to discuss their experiences and support each other.

• Mindfulness-based therapies: These therapies, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), teach the person with OCD techniques to focus on the present moment and accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment.

It's also important to mention that treatment for OCD is not a one-time event. It is a journey that requires commitment and persistence.

There are several effective treatment options available to treat OCD, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (ERP) and medications. Individuals with OCD need to work with a mental health professional to find the treatment program that is best for them. It is also essential that family members and friends be supportive and be understanding of the person’s condition.

Meet Your Clinical Psychologists In Newcastle

Dr Emma Doolan is a Clinical Psychologist based in Newcastle. With a collaborative and evidence-based approach, she helps clients overcome various challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. 

Emma is experienced in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other modalities like schema therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused therapy. She holds a PhD in clinical psychology and has completed her registration as a clinical psychologist from AHPRA. Emma is a member of several professional associations, including ACPA, APS, AACBT, and APN.

Paige Cornell is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who have experience in therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. She focuses on building a solid therapeutic relationship and tailoring treatment to each individual. Paige has experience in private practice, NGOs, and forensic settings. 

She works with a diverse range of mental health issues, including anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship problems, substance abuse, and offending behaviours. Paige is particularly interested in helping LGBTQI+ individuals and those dealing with trauma and substance abuse. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and a board-approved supervisor for psychologists. Paige is a member of ACPA and APS, holding a Master's in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychological Science (Honours).

Taylah Armstrong is a Clinical Psychologist in Newcastle. She focuses on developing solid therapeutic relationships to assist individuals in enhancing their well-being and achieving their goals. Taylah is skilled in treating various concerns such as anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, and eating disorders. 

She utilises evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and ACT. Taylah has worked in public healthcare, primary care, and education sectors. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist by AHPRA and holds a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Newcastle.

Paige Whitfield is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle with experience in private and public health settings. She collaborates with health professionals, families, and schools to provide evidence-based treatments like CBT, Narrative Therapy, and ACT for various issues. Paige has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology (Honours) and a Master's in Clinical Psychology. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and is a member of APS and ACPA.

Dr Kaitlin Fitzgerald is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who takes a collaborative and client-centred approach to therapy. She creates a warm and relaxed environment for clients, aiming to make therapy sessions comfortable and even enjoyable. Kaitlin holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle. In addition to her private practice at ELD Psychology, she also works in public mental health treating adults with various mental health issues. 

Kaitlin has experience working with a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. She is skilled in evidence-based therapies like CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. Kaitlin is fully registered as a clinical psychologist with AHPRA and is approved to supervise provisional and registered psychologists.

Eliza Newton is a person-centred Clinical Psychologist dedicated to helping clients explore their deeper selves. She tailors her approach to each client, using psychodynamic therapy for self-exploration or structured techniques like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Schema Therapy. Eliza focuses on individuals overcoming childhood trauma, including Complex PTSD, and helps those with ADHD develop organisational and emotional well-being strategies. With experience in private practice, inpatient settings, and psychiatric rehabilitation, she addresses challenges from anxiety and mood disorders to severe mental illness.

Eliza holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle and a Master of Clinical Psychology from Western Sydney University. She is registered as a Clinical Psychologist with AHPRA and is a member of AAPi and ACPA.

Disclaimer

The content provided on this blog is intended for Australian audiences and is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as professional psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information shared here is based on general knowledge and experience in the field of psychology, but it may not be applicable to your specific situation.

Always seek the advice of your psychologist or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a psychological condition or treatment. Never disregard professional psychological advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.

If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor, or dial 000 immediately. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

The opinions expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organisations or institutions.