Trapped in a Cycle: Unpacking Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Are intrusive thoughts or rituals taking over your day? Learn how OCD works, how therapy can help, and access resources to start your healing journey.

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What Is OCD, Really?

You’ve probably heard the phrase “I’m so OCD” used casually to describe tidiness or perfectionism, but OCD is much more complex and painful than that.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) aimed at reducing distress. It’s not about being “neat”—it’s about feeling trapped in a cycle of anxiety and temporary relief that can take over your life.

At Welsh Psychotherapy, we provide specialized, compassionate care that helps people break free from the grip of OCD and reclaim peace of mind.

Common Symptoms of OCD

OCD can show up in many forms, not all of them visible. Some of the most common signs include:

• Repetitive cleaning or washing due to fear of contamination

• Doubting and constant checking (e.g., doors, stoves, locks)

• Need for symmetry or “just right” sensations

• Intrusive thoughts about harm, religion, sex, or morality

• Mental rituals (e.g., counting, repeating prayers, neutralizing “bad” thoughts)

• Avoiding people, places, or situations that trigger obsessions

  
  

🧠 OCD is not a choice—these thoughts and behaviors are distressing and unwanted. Most people with OCD know their fears are irrational, but still feel driven to act on them.

Which type of OCD symptoms are most familiar to you?

• Intrusive thoughts
• Repetitive behaviors
• Checking or counting
• Avoidance habits

Lets talk about David, 42 – Architect

David came to us suffering from intrusive thoughts that he might harm someone by accident. To feel “safe,” he checked every drawer, locked door, and email at least 10 times. He knew it was irrational—but he couldn’t stop.

Through therapy at Welsh Psychotherapy, David learned how OCD hijacks the brain’s fear system. With Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), he gradually confronted his fears without giving in to compulsions. Over time, the anxiety lessened, and he got his evenings (and mind) back.

How Therapy Helps with OCD

OCD can feel like a prison, but therapy is the key to unlocking the door.

At Welsh Psychotherapy, we specialize in evidence-based treatments such as:

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold standard for OCD

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge obsessive thinking

• Psychoeducation so you understand the nature of OCD

• Mindfulness techniques to reduce compulsive urges

• Supportive talk therapy for managing shame, guilt, and self-criticism

What Our Clients Say

“OCD controlled every part of my day, I couldn’t function properly, and my relationships were suffering. I felt embarrassed and alone. Welsh Psychotherapy helped me face the fear instead of running from it. I finally feel like I’m in charge of my life again.” —John, Age 36

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Take the First Step Toward Relief

You don’t have to keep suffering in silence. OCD is treatable, and you’re not alone.Let’s

Whether you’ve just received a diagnosis or you’ve been silently battling obsessions and compulsions for years, we’re here to help—with real tools, real support, and real change.

Start Your Journey – Book Your Consultation Today