Psychological treatment for OCD
Psychologists in attendance at our Centre treat OCD with cognitive behaviour therapy, including exposure and response prevention (ERP), the approach with the strongest research support.
New clients are often seen within one to two weeks. Please call our reception team to discuss your needs.
Written and clinically reviewed by Natascha Madden, Registered Psychologist (AHPRA reg. PSY0000953827), Brisbane Counselling Centre. Last reviewed: October 2026
What is OCD?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety-related condition made up of two parts:
- Obsessions: unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images or urges that cause anxiety, disgust or doubt
- Compulsions: repetitive actions or mental rituals done to reduce that distress or prevent something bad from happening
Compulsions bring short-term relief, but the relief does not last and the urge comes back, often stronger. This cycle is what keeps OCD going, and it is also what treatment targets.
OCD affects around two to three in every 100 people at some point in their life. It often begins in adolescence or early adulthood, and many people wait years before seeking help because they feel ashamed or worry about how their thoughts will be judged.
Common types of OCD
- Contamination: fear of germs, illness or dirt, with excessive washing or cleaning
- Checking: repeatedly checking locks, appliances or whether you have made a mistake
- Harm-related thoughts: unwanted thoughts of harming someone, with avoidance or reassurance-seeking
- Symmetry and “just right” feelings: ordering, arranging or repeating until it feels right
- Relationship OCD: persistent doubts about a partner or your feelings
- Religious or moral scrupulosity: fear of having sinned or done something wrong
- Intrusive sexual thoughts: unwanted thoughts that are distressing because they go against your values
- Mental compulsions: counting, praying, reviewing or neutralising thoughts in your head
Having an unwanted thought does not mean you want it or will act on it. People with OCD are usually deeply distressed by their thoughts precisely because they conflict with who they are.
How is OCD treated?
Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is a type of cognitive behaviour therapy and the most effective psychological treatment for OCD. With your psychologist, you gradually and safely face the situations or thoughts that trigger your anxiety, while practising not carrying out the compulsion. Over time, your brain learns that the anxiety passes on its own and the feared outcome does not happen. You set the pace together.
Treatment may also include:
- Cognitive therapy to change beliefs about responsibility, certainty and the meaning of thoughts
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to relate differently to intrusive thoughts and focus on what matters to you
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), used alongside ERP, particularly where OCD began after, or is linked to, distressing or traumatic experiences. EMDR can reduce the emotional charge of those memories and the anxiety that drives compulsions. EMDR is an area of specialist expertise at our Centre.
- Support for family members so they can respond helpfully rather than accommodating compulsions
For some people, medication prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist is also helpful alongside therapy. Your psychologist can work with your doctor with your consent.
Read more about anxiety counselling and health anxiety, which share some features with OCD.
How do I book an appointment for OCD in Brisbane?
- Please call (07) 3831 4452 or complete our enquiry form. Our reception team will suggest a suitable psychologist. You do not need a referral to book.
- See your GP if you want a Medicare rebate. Ask for a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Private health insurance may also apply.
- Attend in person or online. Online and telephone sessions are available.
Brisbane Counselling Centre is at Level 7, 87 Wickham Terrace, Spring Hill, about five minutes’ walk from Central Station. We are open Monday to Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm and Saturday 8:30am to 5:00pm. See our fees and rebates or meet the psychologists and counsellors.
Frequently asked questions
Can OCD be treated?
What is exposure and response prevention (ERP)?
Do intrusive thoughts mean I will act on them?
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist for OCD?
How much does OCD treatment cost?
How long does OCD treatment take?
Can children and teenagers get help for OCD?
Can EMDR help with OCD?
Can I have OCD treatment online?
Where are you located and is there parking?
We can help
Living with OCD can be exhausting, and many people carry it quietly for years because they feel ashamed or worry about how their thoughts will be understood. You do not need to explain everything perfectly, and nothing you share will shock the psychologist you see.
With the right treatment, OCD can loosen its grip, giving you back time, energy and freedom. Take the courageous step and reach out today.
Please call to speak with our reception team, or send us a message. The Brisbane psychologists and counsellors are available to help.
If you need urgent support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, available 24 hours. In an emergency, call 000.
