Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) an evidence based treatment for a range of different mental health disorders.
​
Broadly speaking, it examines the way that our thoughts, feelings and behaviour all relate to one another.
​
There are a number of important theoretical principles that underpin CBT for OCD. These are outlined below...
Unwanted Intrusions are Normal
While obsessional intrusions were traditionally considered to be rare and specific to OCD, they are now considered to essentially be a universal ‘normal’ phenomenon. The vast majority of people report that they experience intrusive thoughts, images or impulses, and it affects people across all different cultures and contexts.
The Meaning of Unwanted Intrusions is Important
While most people have unwanted intrusions, only some people develop OCD. This is because of differences in the meaning given to unwanted thoughts, images & urges.
The meaning we give to our experience has an important role in how we feel, and how we respond.
Core Beliefs are part of CBT for OCD
How is it that different people can attribute different meaning to their unwanted intrusions? Our underlying belief systems play a big part. A belief system is a network of ideas that help our brain to interpret the world, ourselves and others: they help us to make sense, or make meaning, from our experience. There are some specific beliefs systems that are involved in CBT for OCD.
OCD Cycle: Compulsions worsen OCD
Initially, compulsions work to help us feel a bit better - we feel that we have prevented something bad for happening or we experience some relief from our distress. Ultimately though, compulsions serve to intensify OCD and make it worse.
and more...
There's some more info that belongs on this page but the handouts are still a work in progress. Watch this space :)