Research shows that on average an individual suffering from OCD will go 14-17 years before getting an accurate diagnosis and referral to appropriate care. We know that sharing your symptoms and seeking help can take a lot of courage and that when you come to our site you might be looking for a variety of resources depending on where you are at in your journey. We hope that the information provided here can help you to access appropriate information, resources and to feel less alone.
Using the ‘Find a Provider’ tab, you can search directories for clinicians in your area, who have gone through necessary training to help. Here’s some things to keep in mind as you look for who might be a good fit:
How do I find the right therapist?
Remember that some therapists are better at treating OCD than others. It is important to interview therapists to find out if they know how to do exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy well. Their responses to your questions are a good guide to what you want to know about a new therapist. Your initial consultation may be done over the phone or in person, but either way, remember:
- You have a perfect right to ask questions. This is your life and health!
- If the therapist is guarded, withholds information, or becomes angry at your requests for information, you should probably look elsewhere.
- If the therapist appreciates how important a decision this is for you and is open friendly and knowledgeable, you may have a gem of a therapist!
- Your relationship with the therapist is important. Especially since they will potentially be asking you to do things that you find uncomfortable as part of your treatment.
Here are some good questions to ask as you consider whether the therapist is a good fit:
- “What techniques do you use to treat OCD?”
If the therapist is vague or does not mention cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) or Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), use caution. A common treatment approach is also ERP paired with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). - “Do you use Exposure and Response Prevention to treat OCD?”
Be cautious of therapists who say they use CBT but won’t be more specific. ERP is a very specific form of CBT. General CBT will not be helpful for OCD. - “What is your training and background in treating OCD?”
If they say they went to a CBT psychology graduate program or did a post-doctoral fellowship in CBT, it is a good sign. Another positive is if a therapist says they are a member of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) or the Association of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapists (ABCT). Also look for therapists who say they have attended specialized workshops or trainings offered by the IOCDF like the Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) or Annual OCD Conference. - “How much of your practice currently involves anxiety disorders?”
A good answer would be over 25%. - “Do you feel that you have been effective in your treatment of OCD?”
This should be an unqualified “Yes.” - “What is your attitude towards medication in the treatment of OCD?”
If they are negative about medication this is a bad sign. While not for everyone, medication can be a very effective treatment for OCD. - “Are you willing to leave your office if needed to do behavior therapy?”
It is sometimes necessary to go out of the office to do effective ERP.