Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that an individual feels compelled to perform. At Valencia Relationship Institute, we recognize the unique challenges that individuals with OCD face, and our therapists are trained to address a range of OCD conditions, including:
OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
Contamination OCD: Individuals with contamination OCD experience intense fears related to germs, dirt, or contamination. This can lead to compulsive cleaning, washing, or avoiding certain places or objects.
Checking OCD: Those with checking OCD have persistent fears of harm or danger, leading them to repeatedly check things like doors, locks, or appliances to ensure safety.
Symmetry and Ordering OCD: This subtype involves a preoccupation with order, symmetry, and exactness. Individuals may feel compelled to arrange objects or perform specific actions to achieve a sense of balance.
Hoarding OCD: Hoarding involves an excessive difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of their actual value. This can lead to clutter and significant distress for the individual.
Pure-O OCD: Purely Obsessional OCD, or Pure-O, is characterized by distressing, intrusive thoughts without observable compulsions. These thoughts often center around fears of harm, unwanted impulses, or taboo subjects.
Controlling or Checking Thoughts OCD: Individuals with this form of OCD may experience persistent, unwanted thoughts related to harm, violence, or inappropriate actions, leading to compulsive mental rituals or reassurance-seeking behaviors.
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At Valencia Relationship Institute, our therapists use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), to help individuals manage and alleviate the symptoms of OCD. We tailor our treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each client, fostering a supportive and empathetic environment for their healing journey.
If you or a loved one is struggling with OCD or any other mental health concern, we invite you to reach out to Valencia Relationship Institute for compassionate and effective therapy services. Our goal is to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives and build strong, resilient relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everyone experiences unwanted or uncomfortable thoughts from time to time. What can make OCD different is how persistent, distressing, and exhausting those thoughts become. You may find yourself replaying situations over and over, seeking reassurance, checking things repeatedly, or avoiding certain situations just to get some relief. If you’ve been feeling trapped in a cycle of anxiety and uncertainty, please know you’re not alone. Many people with OCD worry that something is “wrong” with them before learning that what they’re experiencing is actually a very treatable condition. A therapist can help you better understand what’s happening and guide you toward effective tools and support.
Absolutely not. We know that reaching out for help can feel vulnerable enough without the fear of being pushed into situations you’re not ready to discuss, especially without knowing your therapist yet or creating that trusting and safe therapeutic relationship. OCD treatment is a collaborative process, and your therapist will move at a pace that feels manageable and supportive. Together, you’ll create a step-by-step plan that helps you build confidence over time. The goal isn’t to overwhelm you—it’s to help you feel more empowered and less controlled by anxiety.
Yes. Many people struggle with OCD for years because they don’t fit the stereotypes they see online or in the media. OCD isn’t always visible to others. Some people spend hours mentally reviewing conversations, questioning their decisions, seeking certainty, or trying to “figure out” distressing thoughts. Even though these behaviors happen quietly in the mind, they can be incredibly exhausting and can interfere with work, relationships, and daily life. Therapy can help you understand these patterns with compassion and learn new ways to respond so your thoughts no longer have so much influence over your day.
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer is different for everyone. Many people find that therapy alone provides the support and tools they need to manage OCD symptoms, while others may benefit from exploring medication as part of their overall treatment plan. While therapists do not prescribe medication or provide medical advice, we can help you better understand your symptoms and discuss whether it might be helpful to consult with your primary care physician or a psychiatrist. Sometimes it’s simply helpful to rule out whether medication could be a useful part of your care. Our goal is never to push medication, but rather to help you explore all available options so you can make informed decisions about what feels right for you. Together, we’ll work to find the approach that best supports your well-being and long-term goals.
Healing isn’t a race, and everyone’s journey looks a little different. The length of treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of symptoms and how long OCD has been affecting your life. What we often see is that clients begin to feel hopeful as they gain a better understanding of OCD and learn practical tools to manage it. Over time, many people experience greater freedom, less anxiety, and more confidence in their ability to handle difficult thoughts without being controlled by them. Change is possible, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.