Starting NOCD Therapy

Congratulations! Thats a big first step. I agree don’t hold back. Your therapist will give you homework (ERP). Do the work even if it sounds silly or pointless. Trust me it matters. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself. Good luck!!!

Welcome Yes, a few words of advice. Dont hold back your thoughts, no matter how gruesome, disgusting you may think they seem, your therapist will have heard it all. You will not freak them out, this I promise.

YAY!! Welcome to the NOCD fam! try to be open to new experiences and honest about your symptoms even if it feels awkward or taboo (we as the therapists are happy to hear it all and want to give you support). The first session will be a lot of rapport building and learning about your symptoms which is great to get you a bit more comfortable with your therapist before you start building your personalized exposure hierarchy :) I wish you the best of luck as you start this journey! It is well worth it!

Be open and transparent as possible with your therapist. Do not hold back! There is nothing OCD has thrown at you that’s too taboo that your therapist has not heard before.

Great news! You're on your way to recovery. A couple of tips: 1. Don't be afraid to tell your therapist everything. S/he won't judge you. Like a priest in a confessionals, your therapist has heard it all before. 2. Don't get discouraged if you experience a spike in your symptoms after beginning ERP therapy. Many of us have experienced it. Because you're standing up to the bully, OCD, it's trying to keep you on its treadmill. Keep in therapy and keep using your ERP tools. Eventually, it should dissipate. 3. Take advantage of NOCD's arsenal of support, including podcasts, YouTube videos, group sessions and this community board. It's all here to help you. 4. Don't give up! OCD is treatable and you can go on to a happy life. It just takes work and patience. Hope this helps!

This is a safe space and an incredible community. You’re already on the path forward!