NOCD Cancellation Fee

I would like to open a thoughtful and respectful discussion regarding NOCD’s current cancellation fee policy. My intention is not to criticize the organization as a whole, but to raise concerns about how these fees impact the very population NOCD is designed to support. In my experience, the 48‑hour cancellation window and the significantly increased fee feel disproportionately burdensome. I fully understand that NOCD must maintain scheduling stability and ensure clinicians are compensated for their time. However, the reality is that many individuals living with OCD struggle with symptoms that directly affect their ability to consistently attend sessions. When a person’s symptoms interfere with their functioning, it is deeply discouraging to then face a financial penalty for the very challenges they are seeking treatment for. Mental‑health symptoms should never be treated as something to be punished. When I first began with NOCD, cancellations were handled with far more flexibility, and the fee—when applied—was around $35. As the company has expanded, the cost of late cancellations has risen sharply, and it increasingly feels like patients are being asked to absorb financial consequences that many simply cannot afford. For people already navigating significant emotional distress, these fees can create additional hardship at a time when support should feel accessible, not conditional. I believe there are more compassionate and balanced ways to approach cancellations—whether through reduced fees, shorter notice requirements, or alternative options that acknowledge the realities of living with OCD. My hope is to hear from others about their experiences and perspectives, and to encourage a conversation about how policies can evolve without compromising care. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for engaging with openness and respect. My goal is to advocate for fairness and understanding, especially for those who are most vulnerable.