Support for intrusive thoughts and compulsions
OCD can trap you in loops of unwanted thoughts and the actions that follow them. Our therapists help children, teens, and adults in Rochester Hills loosen that grip and get back to living life on their terms.
What OCD can look like
Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves two parts: obsessions (unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress) and compulsions (behaviors or mental rituals done to try to ease that distress or prevent something feared).
OCD doesn't always look like what people expect. It's not just about cleanliness or organization — it can involve intrusive thoughts about harm, contamination, relationships, morality, or a need for things to feel "just right," among many other themes.
The compulsions can feel like the only way to get relief, but they usually end up reinforcing the cycle. Therapy — particularly approaches designed specifically for OCD — can help break that pattern.
Signs it may be time to reach out
OCD can be hard to recognize, especially early on. Here are some signs it may be worth talking with someone.
How we can help
OCD responds well to specific, structured approaches. Your therapist will tailor treatment to your particular obsessions and compulsions. Approaches we commonly use include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Mindfulness-based techniques
- Acceptance-based approaches
What to expect in OCD therapy
OCD treatment tends to be structured and goal-focused. Here's generally how it unfolds.
Your therapist will get specific with you about your particular obsessions, compulsions, and triggers — OCD looks different for everyone, so this matters.
Learning how obsessions and compulsions reinforce each other, and why compulsions bring relief in the moment but keep the cycle going long-term.
Working through triggers in small, manageable steps, at a pace you help set — never thrown into the deep end.
Practicing new ways of responding to intrusive thoughts, so they carry less weight and take up less of your day over time.
Meet the therapists who can help
Common questions
What is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)?
ERP is considered the gold-standard therapy for OCD. It involves gradually and safely facing the situations or thoughts that trigger obsessions, while resisting the urge to perform the usual compulsion. It's always done collaboratively, at a pace you have a say in.
Is OCD just about being neat or organized?
No — that's a common misconception. OCD can center on many different themes, including harm, relationships, morality, health, or a need for things to feel "just right." A liking for order or cleanliness on its own isn't OCD.
Will I have to describe my intrusive thoughts in detail?
Only as much as you're comfortable with, and your therapist will help create a space where that feels safe. Being specific does help treatment work better, but the pace is always something you have a say in.
Can children and teens have OCD too?
Yes. OCD often begins in childhood or the teen years. Visit our children's therapy page to learn more about what treatment looks like for younger clients.
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