OCD Counselling for Adults
Obsessive‑compulsive disorder (OCD) involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours that can feel impossible to resist. Authentic You offers OCD therapy in South Edmonton and online across Alberta. Evidence‑based treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and medication options that provide relief.
Serving Edmonton and Surrounding Communities
We provide OCD therapy for adults in Edmonton, Leduc, Beaumont, Sherwood Park, St. Albert and nearby communities, with secure online sessions including video and phone appointments, across Alberta. Our team of clinicians and Clinical Care Administrators are located in the Edmonton region and is here to assist with booking and support.
Our Values
Ethical, transparent, client-centered care
Respect for your pace, needs, boundaries, and lived experience
A confidential, comfortable environment where you can show up as you are
Inclusive and culturally aware practice
Understanding OCD and Its Treatment
OCD is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety and distress. Common themes include contamination, checking, symmetry, harming others and religious, sexual or relational concerns. OCD can cause significant distress and interfere with daily life.
Evidence‑Based Treatment: ERP
The International OCD Foundation states that Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specialized form of CBT, is the most effective first‑line therapy for OCD. ERP involves gradually facing feared situations while resisting compulsions, allowing anxiety to decrease over time. This structured, supportive approach provides long‑term relief and helps extinguish obsessive fears.
Break free from obsessions and rituals today.
Medication Options
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are evidence‑based medications for OCD, including citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine and sertraline. Medication may be used alone or in combination with ERP, particularly for moderate to severe OCD. Your therapist can coordinate with your physician to discuss medication management options and monitor your progress.
Tailoring Therapy to You
Every person’s OCD symptoms are unique. We tailor treatment to your obsessions, compulsions and underlying beliefs. Counselling may incorporate mindfulness, acceptance and commitment techniques, and relapse‑prevention planning. Education for partners and family members can help them understand how to support you without accommodating compulsions.
FAQs
Does ERP increase anxiety?
ERP is challenging because it asks you to face fears, but it is conducted gradually with support. Most clients experience significant anxiety reduction over time.
How long does treatment last?
ERP programmes typically involve weekly or biweekly sessions over 12–20 weeks. Longer‑term maintenance may be needed for chronic symptoms.
Do I have to stop rituals immediately?
ERP involves resisting compulsions during exposure exercises. Your therapist will help you take gradual steps with anxiety coping skills.
Can OCD be cured?
Many people achieve significant symptom reduction and live fulfilling lives. Ongoing practice of skills helps maintain therapeutic gains.
Begin Your Journey with Authentic You
Authentic You provides OCD counselling in Edmonton and online across Alberta. Our ERP‑trained psychologist is using a collaborative approach to help you regain control and reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.