OCD Treatment: What is the right approach for you?
Recovering from OCD is a tough journey. Letting go of safety behaviors (compulsions) and facing your fears (exposures) can feel like jumping off a cliff. As someone who has been through it personally as well as helps clients recover from OCD on a daily basis- I can tell you we need more approaches than purely ERP. ERP has been touted as the gold standard in care, and while it can be very effective, it isn’t effective or accessible for everyone (e.g. Autistic brains do not habituate)! I-CBT on the other hand, has been an evidence based treatment since the 1970’s and is highly effective for treating OCD, panic and other anxiety based conditions. It is starting to gain popularity in the mainstream OCD field, and we are proud to offer this approach at ED & OCD Therapy. Both Allyson and Parisa are certified and can walk you through this approach. Here are some key differences compared to ERP:
Inference Based- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT)
The I-CBT approach revolves around identifying inferential confusion, the inferential confusion process, and obsessional narratives. It sees inferential confusion as the core problem of OCD and aims to help clients differentiate between reality and conflating possibility.
One of the key benefits of I-CBT is its focus on restoring self-trust and agency to the client. It emphasizes the importance of the client’s active participation in their recovery process. Moreover, I-CBT does not require clinicians to withhold warmth or reassurance, which can be hugely comforting for those struggling with the disorder.
I-CBT is a great option particularly for neurodiverse (ND) people who may not be able to “habituate”. The treatment helps them identify their core feared-self, building self-awareness and resilience against the disorder.
Another key advantage of I-CBT is that it requires no exposure. This means the client is not required to confront or expose themselves to their fears or compulsions directly, which can be traumatising for some.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
On the other hand, ERP involves exposure to fears and intentional reduction of compulsions. It utilizes habituation and inhibitory learning theory to reduce the distress associated with intrusive thoughts. ERP is focused on helping clients embrace uncertainty, seeing intolerance of uncertainty as the core problem of OCD.
ERP is an evidence-based practice that has been around for decades. It helps you identify your core fear, which can be a critical step towards overcoming the disorder. Additionally, ERP can be augmented for ND people, making it an inclusive approach.
However, it’s worth noting that ERP can be harmful if not applied correctly. It may or may not lead to long-term cessation in symptoms. Therefore, it’s crucial to undertake this treatment under the guidance of a qualified therapist.
In conclusion, both I-CBT and ERP offer effective strategies for managing OCD. However, choosing the right approach depends on individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. It’s essential to consult with a qualified therapist to determine the most suitable strategy. Allyson Inez Ford, MA, LPCC and Parisa Bazaei, MA, LMFT are therapists who can provide expert guidance in this regard.
Remember, overcoming OCD is a journey, and the right treatment approach can make all the difference. It’s all about finding what works best for you and dedicating yourself to the recovery process. If you’re ready to find freedom from the pain of OCD, contact us and see how we can help you! We offer therapy to CA, Utah and Florida residents as well as recovery coaching worldwide.
Find more about our approach via our founder’s Instagram! @bodyjustice.therapist
At Eating Disorder OCD Therapy, we offer compassionate, relational, and individualized care, rooted in the belief that healing is not one-size-fits-all. Honoring client autonomy, collaboration, and anti-oppressive, neurodivergent-affirming practices, we walk alongside you as the expert in your own life. We provide therapy for Eating Disorders, OCD, Body Image, Trauma, Maternal Mental Health, and offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Group Therapy (globally), Recovery Coaching (globally), and Clinical Consultation and Supervision for clinicians. We are currently accepting new clients for in-person therapy in San Diego and virtual services in California, Washington, Utah, and Florida.
