CBT for OCD in Paris
Obsessive-compulsive disorder combines distressing intrusive thoughts — obsessions — with actions or thoughts repeated to bring that anxiety down — compulsions.
These rituals bring relief in the moment but strengthen OCD over time. They can take up a lot of time and energy, and often come with shame. CBT is the leading psychological treatment for OCD.
Many different forms
- Repeated checking: doors, gas, appliances, messages you have sent.
- Fear of contamination, excessive washing or cleaning.
- Shocking intrusive thoughts, or thoughts that go against your values.
- A need for order, symmetry, or for things to feel "just right".
- Mental rituals: counting, praying, repeating a phrase, seeking reassurance.
How CBT helps
The main method is called exposure and response prevention (ERP). You gradually face the situations that trigger the obsession without doing the ritual, so the anxiety fades on its own and the cycle loses its hold.
We work in steps, starting with what feels most manageable. We also look at how you interpret intrusive thoughts: they are very common, and they say nothing about who you are.
How it works
We start by mapping out your obsessions and rituals together. The exposure plan is then built with you, and part of the work happens between sessions, in daily life.