Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Understanding intrusive thoughts and breaking free from exhausting cycles

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental rituals (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety or distress.

People with OCD often know that their fears are unrealistic or exaggerated, yet still feel compelled to act on them. This can be confusing, exhausting, and deeply distressing.

At SGI Psychology in Preston (Northern Suburbs of Melbourne), our psychologists provide evidence-based, compassionate therapy to help people understand OCD and regain control over their lives.

What are obsessions and compulsions?

  • Obsessions are intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that feel disturbing, unwanted, or frightening.

  • Compulsions are behaviours or mental acts performed to reduce the anxiety caused by obsessions.

Common examples include:

  • fear of contamination or germs

  • repeated checking (doors, appliances, locks)

  • intrusive thoughts about harm or accidents

  • ordering or arranging things “just right”

  • excessive reassurance seeking

  • mental rituals such as counting or repeating phrases

  • fears of making mistakes or being responsible for harm

The relief from compulsions is temporary, which keeps the cycle going.

How OCD affects daily life

OCD can impact:

  • time and energy

  • work or study performance

  • relationships

  • sleep

  • self-confidence

  • emotional wellbeing

Many people hide their symptoms for years due to shame or fear of being misunderstood. OCD is not a personality flaw — it is a treatable condition involving anxiety and brain-based habit loops.

How therapy helps with OCD

Effective treatment focuses on helping you:

  • understand how OCD works

  • reduce fear of intrusive thoughts

  • resist compulsive behaviours safely

  • retrain the brain’s threat system

  • build tolerance for uncertainty

  • regain confidence and freedom

  • reduce shame and self-criticism

With the right support, many people experience significant improvement.

Evidence-based approaches we use

Your psychologist may draw from:

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Mindfulness-based strategies

  • Self-compassion approaches

  • Psychoeducation about anxiety and habit loops

Therapy is always paced carefully and collaboratively. You will never be forced to do anything you are not ready for.

Our location

SGI Psychology is based in Preston, in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, offering:

  • in-person psychology appointments

  • Telehealth sessions Australia-wide

Book an appointment

If OCD or intrusive thoughts are affecting your life, you can:

  • book an appointment online

  • contact our reception team

  • ask which psychologist may be the best fit for you

You are not alone, and effective help is available.

Book a Session