Canadian Center for Counselling and Psychotherapy

What Is OCD?

People with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) typically act compulsively due to their recurrent and stressful thoughts (compulsions) (obsessions). In an attempt to feel more relaxed, they may need to engage in these compulsive behaviours once or more. Although each person's compulsions and obsessions are unique, clinicians usually classify them into distinct groups. Many different types of symptoms are frequently experienced by people, and these symptoms may change over time.

Understanding OCD

OCD involves both obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are persistent thoughts or fears, while compulsions are actions meant to reduce the anxiety caused by those thoughts. For example, someone might worry about germs (an obsession) and wash their hands repeatedly (a compulsion) to ease that worry. While everyone has occasional worries or routines, OCD causes these cycles to become overwhelming, time-consuming, and hard to ignore.

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Common OCD Obsessions and Compulsions

  • Obsessions: Fear of germs, needing order, concerns about harm, or intrusive, unwanted thoughts
  • Compulsions: Excessive cleaning, checking, counting, arranging, or repeating actions to “undo” the obsession

These cycles can feel exhausting, and many people with OCD feel shame or frustration over their symptoms. Remember, OCD is a common condition, and you’re not alone. Effective support is available.

Why Seek Online Counselling for OCD?

Online counselling for OCD provides a convenient, private way to receive help, wherever you are in Canada. You’ll work with licensed therapists who specialize in treating OCD and anxiety, whether you’re in Ontario or any other province. Online counselling allows you to receive therapy from a comfortable, familiar environment, which can make it easier to start and maintain treatment.

How Therapy Can Help Manage OCD

Treating OCD typically involves evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). These methods help you identify and manage obsessive thoughts while reducing the need to perform compulsions. A licensed therapist will help you work through a personalized plan designed to lessen OCD’s grip on your daily life.

Benefits of OCD Counselling

OCD counselling gives you a structured approach to understand your symptoms and create healthier responses. Through online therapy, you’ll receive guidance to develop lasting skills to manage OCD’s impact on your work, relationships, and daily routines.

What to Expect from OCD Counselling

  • Learn Effective Coping Skills: Gain tools to manage obsessive thoughts without relying on compulsions.
  • Reduce Anxiety and Stress: Work with your therapist to ease the anxiety behind your obsessions.
  • Strengthen Relationships: Find ways to balance OCD’s demands with healthy, positive interactions.
  • Create a Personalized Treatment Plan: Your therapist will work with you to build a plan specific to your needs and goals.


“I knew my thoughts didn’t make sense, but I couldn’t stop the rituals. They were taking over my life and relationships.”


Frequently Asked Questions on online counselling for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

If you’re experiencing repetitive, intrusive thoughts and feel the urge to perform certain actions to relieve those thoughts, you may benefit from talking to a mental health counsellor.

When OCD starts to affect your daily life, work, or relationships, treatment can provide valuable support. Therapy is often most effective when started early.

With online therapy, you can meet a licensed therapist by video or chat, working through OCD-related challenges from your own space.

Yes, online counselling in Canada provides support for individuals and offers family counselling if OCD symptoms affect those around you.

Research shows that online therapy is highly effective for managing OCD and offers benefits similar to in-person therapy. If you need mental health counselling, anxiety counselling, or counselling near you, online therapy in Canada provides accessible, effective options. From psychotherapy in Canada to individual and family counselling, support is available to help you take control of OCD and improve your quality of life.