Understanding OCD - Tools and Techniques for Practitioners

OCD can be defined as ‘a highly anxious awareness of a possible outcome but whose probability is low, and a repetitive behaviour or set of behaviours which sometimes manages to reduce anxiety but always fails to affect probability’ (Leins, 2024). Thought to affect between 1 and 4% of the population, it is considered to be one of the most common mental health disorders in the UK and, where early intervention has not been available, it is likely to remain a chronic problem. Psychological therapies are an effective treatment for OCD with Exposure Response Prevention consistently found to be helpful (Gava et al., 2007, Ost et al., 2016). This one hour talk covers how we can recognise OCD, utilise CBT interventions to support clients and consider other support options for clients with this presentation. Content Recognising Signs and Symptoms of OCD The talk will begin with an overview of how OCD presents and what symptoms to look out for in assessment. Defining and outlining what obsessions are, what compulsions are and how OCD presents clinically with reference to diagnostic criteria. • NICE treatment guidance A reminder of what NICE recommends and what the evidence base states is suitable for treatment of OCD. • Understanding the OCD cycles – behavioural and cognitive With reference to relevant theory, this section will provide an overview on how to understand the maintenance cycle of OCD, and how this can be used to develop a shared understating with clients • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD An overview on how to use low intensity ERP to effectively treat OCD. Cognitive interventions for OCD An overview of the cognitive approach to OCD. ‘From my experience’ Sharing experiences of working with OCD both face to face and online Q&A An opportunity for the audience to ask any questions
MEET YOUR FACILITATOR

Harriet Barnett

Harriet has worked with children, young people and adults in school, CAMHS and private sector settings over the past ten years. Her work integrates her knowledge and experience of counselling, CBT and EMDR approaches to support her clients. She has worked with many clients presenting with OCD and continues to see clients presenting with this concern in her private practice.

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