In the digital age, information is available at our fingertips, yet finding reliable and accurate information can be a daunting task. We often turn to “Dr. Google,” which can sometimes be helpful in understanding our struggles and exploring potential treatment approaches. However, when it comes to a complex mental health condition like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), misleading information is common and can lead to increased suffering.
Fortunately, getting the right information can help people find proper treatment and avoid these outcomes. With the help of a qualified therapist who can provide evidence-based care, individuals with OCD can not only manage their symptoms but thrive, living fulfilling lives aligned with their values.
So how do you find a qualified therapist? The key lies in knowing what makes a treatment provider a good choice to guide you through the recovery process. To help with your search, here are three “green flags” to look for:
1. Knowledge and expertise
When beginning your search, the number one quality to look for in a therapist should be specialization in OCD. This may seem like it goes without saying, but the surprising truth is that many therapists claim specialization in OCD without having the training that they need to deeply understand the condition, so it’s important to dig deeper.
Specialization involves a thorough understanding of OCD and specific training in its diagnosis and treatment. Many therapists have general knowledge in many topics, but OCD is extremely nuanced and without an understanding of its diverse presentations and inner workings, it can be easy to misdiagnose. We’ve seen this happen time and time again, and the results can be devastating.
Many therapists are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which can be helpful for other mental health conditions but is not recommended for OCD. OCD needs specialized therapy, as general therapeutic modalities like talk therapy and CBT can often make its symptoms worse.
The form of therapy that’s considered the gold standard treatment for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). When deciding on a potential therapist, make sure to ask if they are familiar with ERP therapy. They should have extensive knowledge of its use in the treatment of OCD.
Don’t be afraid to ask other questions about what treatment will look like and what to expect, either—this is how you can really tell an OCD expert apart from the crowd.
If it is a medical doctor or psychiatrist that you are looking into, they should know about the most effective medications for treating OCD, which are typically Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). Although ERP therapy alone can provide life-changing results for many individuals with OCD, for some, ERP is most effective when paired with prescription medication. A qualified therapist will be able to determine if that’s the case for you.
You also need to be wary of anyone who promotes alternative methods of treatment without having the scientific evidence to back up their claims. Quick fixes and miracle treatments should be closely examined. Beware of anyone claiming they can “get rid of” OCD in just a few sessions. OCD is complicated and learning how to manage its symptoms will take time.
2. Experience and empathy
When you’re searching for a therapist, the importance of these traits really can’t be overstated. Finding a therapist who has extensive specialized training in identifying and treating OCD will be advantageous for your recovery, as they will be far more likely to understand how OCD can affect you and empathize with your experiences.
Along with proper training, a history of treating the OCD population can be another indicator that a therapist might be a good choice. This experience can help a therapist see for themselves what is most beneficial for people with OCD, leading to better-informed choices about treatment.
It’s also imperative that you feel comfortable with your therapist. They should be compassionate, and should make it clear that they have your back and are in your corner. They should show you the understanding you deserve. OCD can create a high level of anxiety within us and the misconceptions surrounding it can lead to immense shame and self-reproach, but empathy can go a long way in counteracting these painful feelings.
Building this foundation of trust and developing a good rapport with your therapist can have a profound impact. When you know that you’re in a safe place to freely open up about some of the really hard topics that OCD can attack our minds with, it can lead to better results. This relationship can take time to establish, though, so be careful not to throw in the towel too early.
3. Willingness to collaborate
Look for a therapist who values your input and takes a collaborative approach to therapy. Your therapist should be willing and able to personalize your treatment plan to meet your unique needs. They should recognize that you know your life better than anyone and be deeply respectful of your beliefs, identity, and background.
They should also involve you in every aspect of your treatment, knowing that the input you provide can be the starting point for effective change. Working with your therapist to set goals for yourself in treatment can help you become empowered. As you progress towards your goals, you can gain a sense of freedom and hope.
An OCD therapist who is a good fit will know when it’s appropriate and effective to push the boundaries of your comfort zone, but will also recognize when it’s necessary to hold back. They will respect your autonomy and your preferred ways of approaching treatment.
What a qualified OCD specialist won’t do is force you to take actions that conflict with your personal values, that cause you or others harm, or that you’re unwilling to do. Instead, they will guide, support, and motivate you throughout the treatment process, helping you gradually face the fears that are holding you back from living the life that you want to live.
Where can I find a qualified OCD therapist?
At NOCD, all of our therapists specialize in OCD. Before seeing a single one of our members, every NOCD Therapist undergoes extensive training to ensure they understand OCD’s intricacies, as well as how to effectively diagnose and treat it. They also receive ERP-specific training, allowing them to tailor treatment to each member.
Our therapist training program was created by the world’s leading OCD experts with the unique needs of the OCD community in mind. As a result, your NOCD Therapy experience will be a highly personalized journey that’s thoughtfully crafted to meet you exactly where you are.
We go above and beyond standard, “one-size-fits-all” therapy, tailoring each stage of treatment to your needs to help you conquer OCD. From matching you with a therapist who understands you to supporting you between sessions, our goal is to ensure you feel safe, seen, and heard every step of the way.