Zhengzhou Obsession: Cognitive Therapy for Obsessions

How long does it take to treat OCD with cognitive behavioral therapy?

Like exposure and response blocking therapy, cognitive therapy is usually completed in 15 to 20 sessions, but cognitive therapy sessions are usually short in duration, lasting 50 to 60 minutes. As with exposure and response blocking therapy, you're often asked to do homework, which often involves keeping track of your day-to-day thoughts and keeping track of whether your worst fears are actually coming true.

Matters needing attention

Decisions about behavioral or cognitive therapy for OCD should be made in consultation with your family doctor, psychiatrist or psychologist as part of your overall treatment plan. In controlled studies, behavioral therapy and cognitive therapy appear to be equally effective. In practice, however, they are often used in combination for maximum effect. This is called cognitive behavioral therapy. No matter which type of treatment you choose, it is most helpful when you are actively engaged in an open discussion with your doctor or mental health professional - a discussion in which you are honest about your symptoms, Feelings, thoughts, and any other issues that touch your heart. This will help you fully understand what it takes to move forward and progress.

Before psychotherapy, it may be helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

Am I willing to try to face my worst fears?

Can I pay for it myself, or will my insurance pay for it?

Am I willing to dedicate 20 weeks to a weekly course?

In addition to weekly classes, am I willing to complete homework between classes?

A very nice word.

Research shows that people who achieve good outcomes through psychotherapy are those who are positive for change and are willing to try and make the necessary commitment. If you have questions about your preparation for psychotherapy, talk to your doctor or psychiatrist.

If you decide to use psychotherapy as part of your overall treatment plan, make sure you are comfortable with the counselor. If you feel something is holding you back from developing a good working relationship, don't be afraid to bring it up in therapy. A good advisor will be happy that you brought this to their attention and will try to work through these issues with you.