Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by unwanted, distressing and repeated thoughts and images that lead to compulsive actions. In the past, OCD was considered a complex disorder that was challenging to diagnose and effectively treat. More recently, there has been substantial progress in terms of both treating and assessing this once illusive disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with exposure and response prevention is an evidence-based approach to treating OCD that encourages the client to be gradually and systematically exposed to the distress provoking trigger without engaging in rituals. This video features a discussion and demonstration of this proven CBT technique that involves first exposing the client to fear-producing stimuli and then encouraging the client to refrain from engaging in compulsive behaviors. In this video, Dr. Eric Storch takes an active role in encouraging and directing a female client to help prevent habitual obsessive-compulsive responses to her fear of contamination.
