What is OCD?
In the UK today it is estimated that 1.2% of the population suffer from the condition of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Those that suffer with it experience repetitive and intrusive thoughts that lead to compulsive behaviours that are overwhelming, time consuming, and debilitating.
OCD the Solution Focused Approach
Solution focused hypnotherapy offers an effective approach to treating OCD because it focuses away from the problem and towards the solution. This leads to lasting change. The brain will cultivate what it focuses on, so for people with OCD they tend to focus on the OCD thoughts which in turn reinforce the problem more and more. Solution focused hypnotherapy allows the mind to work in a fundamentally different way, the brain can’t tell the difference between imagination and reality, so by shifting the thought patterns to focus on how life will feel when the problem no longer exists the brain cultivates that very reality. It is a very empowering approach and builds on the person’s internal resources and strengths, rather than their weaknesses and limitations. It also reduces anxiety overall, promotes serotonin, and reduces cortisol. Over time the client builds resilience to cope with day to day stressors without the need for compulsive behaviours.
The Foundations for Success
One of the reasons why Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is so effective at treating OCD is because it supports the individual to succeed at building a positive foundation of overall good mental health and well-being. For example, by reducing the underlying anxiety and gaining good quality sleep, a healthier diet, regular exercise, or the pursuit of any other meaningful positive activities, interaction and thoughts, the mood improves and a general feeling of well-being is cultivated. As this process continues the unhelpful neural pathways that are responsible for the OCD diminish and get replaced with new healthier pathways.
Success Stories
I have treated many individuals with OCD who report significant reduction in the severity of their OCD in just a few sessions, client’s report feeling more in control of their thoughts and more confident, leading to noticeable improvement in their quality of life. One client recently told me during their eighth session that the OCD thoughts had become more like “a fleeting memory of a way I used to be” and that they were able to shift their focus, move on and forget about it without the need to act out any of the old behaviours.
If you are struggling with OCD remember that help is available and recovery is possible, feel free to contact me and book you free initial consultation when you feel the time is right.
