OCD Treatment: What Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Types, Tests, Intrusive Thoughts, And Exposure Prevention Therapy

OCD treatment typically includes a combination of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication to manage intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.

TL;DR

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is treated with ERP, also known as Exposure Prevention Therapy, a specialised form of CBT that reduces rituals and fear.

  • Medication, like SSRIs, can support therapy, especially for moderate to severe OCD.

  • OCD treatment works best when tailored to the person's subtype (e.g. checking, contamination, intrusive thoughts).

  • Early treatment improves outcomes and prevents escalation.

  • A clinical psychologist trained in OCD therapy can help build a sustainable recovery plan.


WHAT IS OCD AND HOW IS IT TREATED?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition marked by unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions). If you've ever searched "what is OCD" or wondered about your symptoms, you're not alone. OCD affects people in various forms and intensities, and understanding it is the first step to recovery.

These are not habits or quirks — they are distressing and time-consuming patterns that interfere with everyday life. OCD affects about 2–3% of Australians during their lifetime. [1]

TYPES OF OCD (COMMON SUBTYPES)

  • Contamination OCD: Fear of germs; excessive cleaning

  • Checking OCD: Repeatedly checking doors, stoves, or locks

  • Symmetry OCD: Needing items to be "just right"

  • Intrusive Thought OCD: Unwanted violent, sexual, or blasphemous thoughts that feel distressing

  • Relationship OCD (ROCD): Constant doubts about a partner


EXPOSURE AND RESPONSE PREVENTION (ERP): AN EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH

An effective, evidence-based treatment for OCD is a specific type of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), also known as Exposure Prevention Therapy. This approach is widely recognised for its success in helping people overcome OCD symptoms.

HOW ERP WORKS

  • Exposure: Gradually facing the feared thought, image, or situation (e.g. touching a "contaminated" doorknob).

  • Response Prevention: Refraining from the usual compulsion (e.g. not washing hands afterward).

ERP is endorsed by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) [2] and Beyond Blue as the first-line treatment for OCD [3]

COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY

 (CBT) ERP is a subtype of CBT, but CBT may also include:

  • Cognitive restructuring: Challenging beliefs like "If I think it, it will happen."

  • Behavioural experiments: Testing fears in real life

  • Self-monitoring tools: Identifying patterns between thoughts and rituals

OCD TREATMENT AND MEDICATION

Medication is often prescribed alongside therapy — especially in moderate to severe cases or when OCD is causing major distress.

COMMON MEDICATIONS

  • SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) such as fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, or sertraline

  • Clomipramine (a tricyclic antidepressant) for treatment-resistant cases

  • Low-dose antipsychotics (e.g. aripiprazole) in combination therapy

Medication should be prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist and monitored regularly. It does not replace therapy but can make therapy more effective.

HOW LONG DOES OCD TREATMENT TAKE?

Every person is different, but with consistent treatment:

  • Significant improvement is often seen in 12–20 sessions of ERP with a trained psychologist.

  • Maintenance sessions may follow to prevent relapse.

  • Some individuals benefit from ongoing support for managing chronic OCD tendencies.

Early treatment is linked to better outcomes, while delayed treatment can make symptoms more entrenched.

DOES OCD GO AWAY ON ITS OWN?

Unfortunately, OCD symptoms rarely disappear without intervention. Left untreated, OCD can worsen over time and severely impact:

  • Work and productivity

  • Relationships and intimacy

  • Physical health due to compulsions (e.g. excessive hand-washing)

  • Self-esteem and confidence

Effective treatment interrupts the OCD cycle and empowers the person to reclaim their life.

FINDING OCD TREATMENT THAT WORKS

If you suspect you or someone you care about has OCD, the first step is a proper diagnosis. While online OCD tests can be helpful as a starting point, they are not a substitute for a professional assessment by a clinical psychologist.

A clinical psychologist trained in OCD and ERP therapy can provide:

  • Diagnostic assessment

  • A treatment plan tailored to your OCD subtype

  • Support to break free from the loop of fear and compulsion

GETTING SUPPORT FOR OCD IN SYDNEY

At Equilibrium Psychology, our team offers specialist OCD treatment, including ERP and CBT, for adults. We are conveniently located in the Sydney CBD, just 3 minutes from Wynyard Station, and provide telehealth sessions across NSW and Australia.

We support clients in Sydney CBD, Surry Hills, Barangaroo, Ultimo, Pyrmont, and beyond.

WHY CHOOSE EQUILIBRIUM PSYCHOLOGY?

Established almost 20 years ago by clinical psychologist Gemma Cribb, with more than 20 experienced clinical psychologists registered with AHPRA (plus Angel the therapy dog!), our practice is known for warm, evidence-based care.

We offer:

ERP, CBT, and ACT for OCD and anxiety

  • LGBTQIA+ inclusive practice

  • Medicare rebates for eligible referrals

  • After-hours and online appointments available

  • No waitlists

  • Experienced psychologists registered with AHPRA

NEXT STEPS

You don't have to fight OCD alone. With the right tools and support, recovery is possible.

👉 Send a confidential enquiry online, or

📞 Call our friendly team on (02) 9262 6156 to find the right psychologist for you.

NEED URGENT SUPPORT?

If you're feeling overwhelmed or need immediate help, please contact:

- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

- Lifeline: 13 11 14

- In an emergency, call 000

These services are available 24/7 and can provide immediate support.

*Last updated: July 2025*

References

[^1]: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Mental Health Services in Australia.

[^2]: Beyond Blue. OCD - Treatment Options. https://www.beyondblue.org.au

[^3]: Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. OCD Guidelines. https://www.ranzcp.org

Gemille Cribb