At Marsh Psychotherapy, we provide specialized therapy for individuals struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Our approach integrates Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold standard for OCD treatment, with Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) to address both the behavioral and emotional aspects of OCD. Our goal is to help clients reduce symptoms, regain control over their lives, and build healthier relationships.

Common Types of OCD We Treat

While OCD manifests in various ways, we most often work with:

  • Obsessive Thinking & Rumination: Persistent, distressing thoughts about past interactions, future anxieties, or fears of making mistakes.
  • Perfectionism: A need for things to be “just right,” leading to procrastination or excessive rechecking.
  • Compulsive Rituals: Checking behaviors (e.g., locks, stoves, lights) and skin-picking.
  • Reassurance-Seeking: A reliance on others to confirm safety, correctness, or morality.

What Causes OCD?

OCD is influenced by biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Differences in brain structure and serotonin imbalances contribute to intrusive thoughts and compulsions. A strong hereditary component increases the likelihood of OCD in families. Cognitive distortions, such as an exaggerated sense of responsibility, intolerance of uncertainty, and perfectionism, fuel obsessive thinking. Stress, trauma, and learned behaviors can initiate or worsen symptoms.

Our Approach to OCD

We use a combined approach that includes Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Sullivan-style Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) to address both the behavioral and emotional aspects of OCD.

ERP involves gradual, structured exposure to fears while resisting compulsions, helping to break the OCD cycle.

IPT focuses on interpersonal distress as a trigger for OCD, reducing the need for reassurance and dependency, strengthening social support, and reducing isolation. This approach also helps with OCD-related guilt and shame, addresses comorbid depression and anxiety, and enhances emotional awareness and communication.

How IPT Enhances OCD Treatment

Interpersonal difficulties can often contribute to or worsen OCD. IPT helps by:

  • Identifying how interpersonal stressors (e.g., criticism, conflict) trigger compulsions.
  • Reducing reassurance-seeking behaviors that reinforce OCD.
  • Strengthening social support and reducing isolation.
  • Addressing OCD-related guilt, shame, and comorbid depression.

The Impact of OCD on Daily Life

  • Work & Productivity – Difficulty concentrating, excessive checking, and procrastination can reduce efficiency and job performance.
  • Relationships – OCD can strain personal relationships due to reassurance-seeking, avoidance, or compulsive behaviors.
  • Mental Health – Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem often accompany OCD.
  • Daily Routines – Time-consuming rituals, hygiene-related fears, and financial strain from OCD-related expenses can disrupt everyday life.

Benefits of Therapy for OCD

Therapy provides numerous benefits, including:

  • Reduction in Symptoms: ERP reduces the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
  • Improved Emotional Well-being: Therapy decreases anxiety, stress, and feelings of shame while fostering self-compassion.
  • Better Coping Strategies: Clients learn skills to manage distress without relying on compulsions.

  • Enhanced Daily Functioning: Increased focus, productivity, and confidence in daily activities.

  • Stronger Relationships: Reduced dependence on reassurance and improved communication skills.

  • Greater Sense of Control: Therapy empowers individuals to recognize that they are not defined by their OCD and can challenge irrational thoughts.

What to Expect in an OCD Therapy Session

A typical session at Marsh Psychotherapy includes:
  1. Check-In & Symptom Review: Discussing recent triggers and how interpersonal stressors may be influencing OCD symptoms.
  2. Cognitive Restructuring: Challenging distorted thoughts related to both OCD and interpersonal interactions.
  3. Homework & Goal Setting: Assigning ERP exercises and interpersonal skill-building tasks for continued progress.
  4. Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) Work: Exploring relational patterns, reassurance-seeking, and emotional responses.
  5. Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) Exercises: Gradual exposure to feared situations while resisting compulsions.

Why Choose Marsh Psychotherapy?

At Marsh Psychotherapy, we recognize that OCD is more than just intrusive thoughts and compulsions—it affects relationships, emotions, and overall well-being. Our integrative approach ensures that you receive comprehensive, personalized care to manage symptoms, strengthen relationships, and improve quality of life.

If you’re ready to take control of your OCD, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

What People Are Saying

“I left every session experiencing personal growth and  positive change.”

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