Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Therapy in Singapore
What Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a psychological condition characterised by recurring intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours that can cause significant distress.
Obsessions refer to repeated, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress or anxiety.
Compulsions are behaviours or mental actions that a person feels driven to carry out in an attempt to reduce distress or prevent something they fear from occurring.
While the term “OCD” is sometimes casually used to describe a preference for order or cleanliness, clinical OCD is different and involves persistent, anxiety-driven experiences rather than a liking for organisation.
Common Signs and Experiences
Individuals with OCD may experience thoughts or urges that feel upsetting or inconsistent with their values. These experiences can create a strong sense of urgency to seek certainty, reassurance, or relief.
Some people feel compelled to engage in repetitive behaviours, such as checking, avoiding, or seeking reassurance. Although these responses may bring brief relief, the distress often returns, contributing to an ongoing cycle.
Though many individuals recognise that their compulsions may be excessive or unhelpful, they may still find them hard to resist.
How OCD Differ From Everyday Worry
Most people experience worries or unwanted thoughts from time to time. In OCD, however, these thoughts tend to be more intense, intrusive, and persistent. They often return despite efforts to ignore, suppress, or reason through them.
This may lead to behavioural changes such as avoidance or compulsive actions. Unlike everyday worries, which often ease once a concern is addressed, OCD-related distress does not typically resolve through reassurance or logical reasoning alone.
Common themes of intrusive thoughts may include concerns about safety, responsibility, morality, or uncertainty. Compulsions may appear in the form of mental reviewing or reassurance-seeking, serving to temporarily reduce anxiety rather than address the underlying concern.
How OCD Can Affect Daily Life
OCD can affect concentration, decision-making, relationships, and one’s overall wellbeing. Some individuals find that compulsive behaviours or mental rituals occupy significant time and energy, while others notice increasing avoidance of situations that trigger distressing thoughts.
Over time, these patterns may restrict daily routines and diminish one’s confidence or independence. Difficulties may also arise at work or school, particularly when anxiety interferes with focus or productivity.
How Therapy Can Help
Psychological therapy for OCD focuses on changing how a person responds to intrusive thoughts and urges, rather than attempting to eliminate them entirely.
Therapy may support individuals to:
Reduce reliance on compulsions
Increase tolerance of uncertainty
Develop more flexible and compassionate responses to anxiety
Re-engage with meaningful activities
Progress is typically gradual and collaborative, with therapy paced according to individual needs.
Our Therapeutic Approach
A core evidence-based approach for OCD therapy is known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP involves gradually and safely facing situations, thoughts, or feelings that trigger anxiety, while learning to reduce reliance on compulsive behaviours or mental rituals.
This process is introduced step by step, with guidance and support from your psychologist. Through a strengths-based and client-centred approach, therapy focuses on building understanding, developing practical skills, and supporting meaningful change without pressure or judgement.
What to Expect in OCD Therapy Sessions
Initial sessions focus on understanding your experiences, concerns, and goals, and developing a shared understanding of how OCD patterns operate.
Psychoeducation helps explain why intrusive thoughts persist and how compulsive responses can maintain anxiety. Therapy then involves learning and practising skills such as ERP in a gradual and structured way. Exercises are agreed upon together and reviewed regularly. Sessions are conducted in a confidential, non-judgemental environment, with ongoing adjustments based on what feels most helpful.
Who This Service May Be Suitable For
OCD therapy may be helpful for adults and adolescents experiencing intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviours, or significant anxiety related to uncertainty or responsibility. It may also be suitable for individuals whose difficulties range from mild to more persistent and those seeking evidence-based psychological support. If you are unsure whether your experiences are related to OCD, an initial consultation can help explore the appropriate options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does having intrusive thoughts mean something bad about me?
No. Intrusive thoughts are common and do not reflect a person’s character, values, or intentions.
Will exposure therapy make my anxiety worse?
Some discomfort can occur during therapy, especially when learning new ways to respond to anxiety. This is approached gradually and with support.
How long does OCD therapy take?
The duration varies depending on individual needs, goals, and severity. Progress is reviewed regularly rather than fixed to a set timeline.
Is medication required?
Medication decisions are separate from psychological therapy and should be discussed with a medical professional if relevant.
Can OCD improve with therapy?
Many people experience meaningful improvement with evidence-based therapy, though outcomes vary and no guarantees are made.
Call to Action
Living with intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviours can feel isolating and overwhelming. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness, but a step towards greater understanding and relief. OCD therapy offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and develop new ways of responding to distress.
If you are experiencing OCD-related difficulties or are unsure whether therapy may be helpful, you are welcome to get in touch with us to learn more or to arrange an initial consultation.