People with OCD who undergo Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and/or ERP (exposure response prevention) therapy usually experience symptom relief.
Those who do not enjoy a reduction of symptoms might have treatment resistant OCD, but there are other blocks to treatment success worth considering. Recognizing and adjusting for these obstacles can make the difference between therapy success and failure for some people.
10 Possible Blocks to OCD Treatment Success
- Obviously, avoiding treatment altogether is an obstacle to recovery, but so is the lack of full commitment to attending therapy sessions, and completing assigned homework.
- Therapy can only help when the communication between client and therapist is open and honest. Though it is not easy to share thoughts or behaviors we might be ashamed of, withholding them from the therapist impede’s their ability to facilitate healing.
- A second disorder such as depression, bipolar disorder, or substance abuse will likely interfere with OCD progress. The coexisting disorders often require separate treatment.
- Typically, therapy sessions are held once per week. However, some individuals may need more frequent meetings, at least for a while, or might fare better in a residential treatment facility.
- Giving homework assignments is part of the therapist’s job. The assigned homework, or daily exposure exercises, only help if they are sufficiently challenging—and completed before the next therapy session.
- Too many in-office therapy sessions may impede progress. Sessions held in locations that stimulate obsessions and compulsions (e.g., the car, outside, in the home, shopping mall) can be more effective. The therapist may be present at the out-of-office location or be in contact with the client via phone, or online technology such as Skype.
- Not every therapist is a good fit for every client. Sometimes there is a personality clash, or a therapist may not create suitable or challenging enough exposures. It is always okay to get second opinions and ask for referrals. Look for therapists with experience treating OCD (or are supervised by someone with experience). Interview several therapists to find a good match.
- Though they may have good intentions, family members, or friends that participate in a client’s OCD behaviors, enable the avoidance of triggers, or give continual reassurances can hinder therapy success.
- Seeing a therapist may not be enough support for some people. Joining a local or online OCD support group creates contact with those who understand OCD treatment challenges and can provide much needed encouragement.
- There is insufficient scientific evidence to support the following treatments for OCD relief: herbal, homeopathy, hypnosis, relaxation techniques, psychoanalysis, diet changes, or EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing).
The best chance for alleviating OCD is to engage in the scientifically substantiated therapies of CBT and ERP, and consider medication if recommended. Mindfulness meditation, yoga, Tai chi, and aerobic exercise are excellent supportive or secondary OCD treatments.
Source: Beyond OCD
Photo credit: reynermedia
