OCD is often misunderstood - it’s not just about being tidy or organised. It involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that create significant anxiety, and repetitive behaviours or mental rituals (compulsions) aimed at reducing that distress.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
What is OCD?
These obsessions can be distressing, irrational, or feel completely out of character. Compulsions may offer temporary relief, but they often reinforce the anxiety over time, creating a cycle that feels difficult to escape. OCD can affect anyone, and the themes it takes can vary widely - from fears of contamination or harm, to needing things to feel “just right,” or struggling with taboo or morally distressing thoughts.
At The Knightsbridge Practice, we provide a non-judgmental, confidential space to explore and understand these experiences. You are not your thoughts - and help is available.
Common signs of OCD
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Repetitive, intrusive thoughts or images that feel hard to control
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Urges to perform rituals or behaviours to neutralise fear
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Fear of harming others, contamination, illness, or making mistakes
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Excessive need for reassurance, checking, counting, or arranging
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Avoidance of certain situations or thoughts
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Feeling trapped in a cycle of anxiety and compulsions
How therapy can help
Effective treatment for OCD involves both understanding the emotional roots and learning new ways to relate to thoughts and urges. Therapy may include:
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Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) - a key evidence-based treatment for reducing compulsions and building tolerance to anxiety
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Cognitive strategies to address unhelpful beliefs around responsibility, safety, or control
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Exploration of shame, fear, or emotional conflict beneath the obsessions
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Developing a more accepting, compassionate relationship with intrusive thoughts
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Learning tools to regain confidence, calm, and flexibility in everyday life