Frequently
asked questions

Yes, completing the self-screening tool is a necessary step before engaging in any of our therapy services, whether that’s an intensive program or regular weekly sessions. This tool gives us crucial insights into your current situation with OCD, helping us make an informed decision about the most suitable treatment option for you. It also aids in matching you with the therapist best equipped to meet your needs. Furthermore, this process ensures that our services are the right fit for you, as our primary goal is to provide meaningful support and effective treatment. We are committed to ensuring that we can genuinely assist each client on their journey to recovery.

Determining the best treatment option for you is a collaborative and informed process, facilitated by our specially trained administrative staff. When you get in touch, we’ll engage in a detailed discussion about your individual situation, aiming to understand your needs and preferences thoroughly. Our admin team works closely with clinical leads to ensure this process is not only effective and accurate but also deeply informed by our clinical expertise. This collaborative approach allows us to tailor our recommendations, ensuring we find the treatment path that aligns best with your unique journey towards recovery.

Feeling overwhelmed by OCD is common, but it doesn’t mean you’re beyond help. We believe in the potential for recovery and management of OCD for everyone. However, to ensure our treatment options align with your specific needs, we rely on a consultation, self-screening process, and collaboration between our therapists and clients to form a tailored treatment plan.

If, through this process, we determine our programs might not be the best fit at the moment, we’re committed to directing you to more suitable services. Our goal is your wellbeing, aiming to offer the most effective support for your journey towards recovery.

Yes, every one of our therapists is fully trained, qualified, and accredited to practice therapy in the UK. They are also registered members of their respective professional bodies, ensuring they meet the high standards required to provide the best possible care. We place great emphasis on the quality of treatment for our clients, and as part of our commitment to excellence, we ensure our therapists are affiliated with reputable ethical organisations. These include the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP), the National Counselling Society (NCS), and the British Psychological Society (BPS). We strongly recommend verifying a therapist’s accreditation with these bodies when seeking therapy, as it guarantees a level of professionalism and quality in the care you will receive.

At the heart of our centre’s distinctiveness is the fact that our co-founders are not only trained therapists but also individuals with lived experience of OCD. This personal insight is woven into the fabric of our services, influencing everything from the initial call with our team to the comprehensive training our therapists receive, and the resources we provide.

This unique perspective ensures that our approach is not just rooted in the latest evidence-based treatments but is also imbued with a deep understanding and empathy that can only come from personal experience. It’s this combination that informs our commitment to creating a supportive, empathetic, and effective therapeutic environment.

Our ethos, shaped by both professional expertise and genuine understanding of living with OCD, ensures that from your first interaction to the conclusion of your treatment, you’re engaged in a process designed to offer the most effective and compassionate care possible. This is how our centre’s foundation in lived experience and therapeutic knowledge distinctly benefits our clients, setting us apart in the field of OCD treatment.

While it’s important to approach therapy with realistic expectations, we can’t guarantee specific outcomes. However, we’re committed to being open, transparent, and honest about the therapeutic process. Our holistic and solutions-focused approach, grounded in evidence-based treatments, provides our clients with the best possible chance of success.

The crucial factor in this journey is collaboration. Success in managing OCD requires a joint effort; we ask our clients to meet us halfway. This means showing up, committing to the process, and actively engaging in building a productive relationship with your therapist. By doing so, you maximise the potential for positive change and progress towards recovery.

If you do not feel invested in the process of your recovery yet or feel that you may have been persuaded to attend the course, then we suggest that you wait until the time is right for you. We know that you can take those first steps to recovery today, but equally, you have to be ready to let us be part of your journey. However, it is also important to note that often, there may never feel like a suitable time. For many, there is certainly that feeling of taking a ‘leap of faith’ before embarking on such a therapeutic process. If this is how you feel, we would like to reassure you that this is not unusual.

Intensive therapy, including our group intensive options, offers unique benefits. Firstly, it accelerates the therapeutic journey, generating a compounding effect on treatment effectiveness. This can be especially crucial for those seeking swift progress or dealing with severe symptoms. Secondly, it provides an unparalleled depth of focus on the individual’s experiences and challenges, facilitating a deeper and quicker exploration and resolution of core issues than is typically possible in standard therapy sessions.

Additionally, for those participating in group intensive therapy, there’s an invaluable, unquantifiable benefit that comes from being around others who are navigating the same disorder. The shared experience fosters a profound sense of understanding and solidarity that cannot be replicated in individual therapy sessions. This communal aspect of group therapy enriches the therapeutic experience, offering both support and perspective that significantly enhances the healing process.

To book individual sessions, you have several convenient options to start the process. You can reach out to our friendly and dedicated team by calling us on 0330 090 1376. Alternatively, if you prefer digital communication, you can fill in our contact form or email us directly at info@ocdtreatmentcentre.com. Whichever method you choose, our team is ready to assist you in scheduling your sessions and answering any questions you might have about the process.

Yes, all of our therapies and courses are firmly based on evidence-based treatments for OCD, following the NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines. A key component of our treatment approach is Exposure Response Prevention therapy (ERP), which is not only recommended but also recognised as the gold standard of treatment for OCD. This commitment ensures you receive the most scientifically supported care, designed to effectively support your path to recovery.

Yes, we can still help. Although ERP is highly effective for many, we understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to managing OCD. Our therapists are trained in a broad spectrum of alternative treatments and techniques that have also proven effective in managing OCD symptoms. These include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Inference Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (I-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Rumination-focused ERP, and talking therapies for trauma/complex trauma. We adopt a holistic approach that considers the entire person, not just their symptoms. We’re committed to exploring these options with you, to find the treatment path that best fits your needs and preferences.It may also feel essential that certain family members are involved in the therapeutic process, especially if you think that family collusion may exacerbate your current symptoms. But, again, this can be discussed during your assessment with one of our team.

To book individual sessions, you have several convenient options to start the process. You can reach out to our friendly and dedicated team by calling us on 0330 090 1376. Alternatively, if you prefer digital communication, you can fill in our contact form or email us directly at info@ocdtreatmentcentre.com. Whichever method you choose, our team is ready to assist you in scheduling your sessions and answering any questions you might have about the process.

Yes, we can work with adolescents. The appropriateness of our services for younger clients is carefully considered on an individual basis. We ensure each enquiry is met with a thoughtful discussion to determine how we can best meet the needs of the young person seeking help

Yes, we work with trauma, acknowledging that OCD and CPTSD often intersect, which can affect treatment pathways. Symptoms of PTSD/CPTSD can indeed improve through our intensive courses. However, if trauma predominates over OCD symptoms, or if the severity of trauma may not be suitable for an intensive course environment, starting with individual sessions with one of our trauma specialists might be recommended. This could serve as either a distinct approach or as groundwork for later participation in an intensive treatment course.

These considerations can be discussed during the initial consultation, highlighting the importance of responding honestly to the self-screening tool. Your candid answers help us understand your situation fully, ensuring we recommend the most effective and appropriate treatment plan for you, taking into account the nuances of co-occurring conditions.

Yes, support is available for carers of individuals with OCD. We understand the crucial role carers play and offer support in two key ways. Firstly, therapists may find it beneficial to include family members or carers as part of a client’s treatment plan. This inclusion, always discussed and agreed upon with the client beforehand, can be instrumental in the recovery process from OCD. Secondly, we provide personal support specifically for those living with and caring for individuals with OCD. In these situations, to maintain confidentiality and effectiveness, the support would be provided by a different therapist than the one seeing the client. Additionally, we offer downloadable resources for carers on our website, designed to offer guidance and support in navigating the challenges of caring for someone with OCD.

For individual sessions, we provide a range of payment methods to ensure the process is both convenient and hassle-free, including direct bank transfer, payment over the phone, or via PayPal and Stripe. Payments must be cleared 24 hours before your session starts; otherwise, the session cannot proceed. To make this process smoother, our administrative staff will offer you the option to provide a card to keep on file when booking your first session.

Additionally, in instances where the therapeutic session fee exceeds what your insurance covers, we may need to charge you the difference to ensure the full session fee is paid. This policy helps maintain the integrity of our service provision, ensuring you receive the uninterrupted and high-quality care you deserve.

Yes, we accept insurance. A broad spectrum of our therapists is covered by a growing list of insurers, reflecting our commitment to making our services as accessible as possible. To discover more about how you can utilise your insurance with us, please reach out to our administrative team. They are on hand to provide you with all the necessary details and assist you in navigating the process smoothly.

Yes, confidentiality and privacy are core principles across all our services, including initial enquiries, individual sessions, and intensive treatment programs. All matters discussed remain confidential, exclusively between you and your allocated therapist. Our notes are securely stored in a digital format, utilizing encryption software designed specifically for psychological practices, to ensure the utmost privacy. We adhere strictly to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018, reflecting our commitment to confidentiality and data protection.

Furthermore, our online video platforms comply with HIPAA standards, reinforcing our dedication to maintaining your information securely and handling it with the highest level of care and confidentiality.

Yes, for individual sessions, we require clients to notify us at least 24 hours in advance if they cannot attend their scheduled appointment. Failure to provide this notice will result in a charge of 100% of the therapy fee. Please be aware that repeated no-shows or late cancellations may ultimately lead to the termination of therapy. This policy is in place to ensure fair access to our services and the efficient use of our therapists’ time, allowing us to provide the best care possible to all our clients.

To book an intensive treatment course, you have several options. You can call our dedicated team on 0330 090 1376, fill out our contact form, or directly email us at info@ocdtreatmentcentre.com. Please be aware that places on our intensive courses are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. We can provisionally hold a place for you for 24 hours, during which full payment is required upfront to confirm your booking. If payment does not clear within this timeframe, the slot will be offered to other clients. This policy ensures fairness and accessibility for all our clients seeking intensive treatment.

For those participating in our Group Intensive Treatment program, the course begins daily at 09:30 and concludes around 15:30, incorporating a one-hour lunch break. Beyond the structured sessions, we encourage clients to continue their OCD management through interactive homework and reading material, contributing to around 6 hours each day dedicated to your therapeutic journey for a comprehensive and immersive experience.

For additional information, please visit our Group Intensive Treatment page, where you’ll find a downloadable information sheet available for your convenience. This sheet can also be sent out upon request. Once you book our group intensive treatment, we will provide further details, including preparation tips, hotel options for those needing accommodation, and a full itinerary to ensure you are fully prepared for the experience ahead.

Yes, we do offer payment plans for all our intensive treatment options through PayPal. It’s important to understand that once a payment plan is agreed upon, the full fee for the treatment is processed, and the contract for the repayment terms is directly with PayPal. This means that any outstanding balance is owed to PayPal under the terms of their payment plan agreement. This approach allows you to access our comprehensive treatment programs while managing payments in a way that might be more suitable for your financial situation.

Yes, you can bring someone with you. For those attending our group courses, we welcome you to bring one person along at no extra charge. However, we generally advise that family members or friends join only for the first two days of the intensive course. This approach allows us to work closely with clients on a one-to-one basis, which is crucial for building confidence in managing symptoms effectively. For individual enrolment in our one-to-one intensive program, a companion can accompany you for free, reinforcing our commitment to a supportive treatment environment.

Working effectively with multiple people in a group setting, especially when it comes to OCD, hinges on our understanding that while symptoms can vary widely—like branches on a tree—they often stem from similar root issues. These foundational aspects include core beliefs, the need for certainty, and challenges in emotional regulation, which are fundamentally similar across individuals with OCD. Addressing these core issues in a group environment can be incredibly therapeutic. The group dynamic allows participants to see their own struggles mirrored in others, providing unique insights and perspectives that might not emerge in one-on-one sessions. This shared experience fosters a sense of community and understanding, making it a powerful setting for tackling the underlying causes of OCD, rather than getting sidetracked by the myriad of symptoms. In essence, the group setting not only facilitates a broad understanding of OCD’s commonalities but also enhances therapeutic outcomes by leveraging the collective experience for individual growth.

After completing your intensive course, we offer a variety of ongoing support options to continue your journey toward recovery. These include group check-ins, workshops, and access to valuable resources, designed to sustain and build upon the progress made during your intensive treatment. Additionally, we can arrange ongoing sessions with a therapist we believe will be a good match for you, allowing for a seamless transition and further personalised support. Please note that individual sessions at this stage would be chargeable, ensuring you receive continuous, high-quality care tailored to your ongoing needs.

While we typically advise against working or studying during your time in our intensive treatment program, we understand that it might not always be feasible to take a complete break. As such, balancing professional or academic commitments alongside the program is entirely possible. However, we kindly ask you to carefully consider your capacity to manage the demands of the intensive program, which includes daily homework, alongside your work or study schedule. Many of our clients successfully navigate both, but to truly maximise the benefits of your intensive treatment with us, we urge you to give priority to your therapeutic work during this period. This approach ensures you gain the fullest advantage from your time in the program.

Being on medication does not impact your ability to start therapy with us. Please remember to bring any daily medications with you if you are joining us for one of our intensive courses. We are not trained to offer advice on medication, so if you’re thinking about changing your medication regimen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional first.For clients who are worried that medication may impact their ability to utilize the course to its full potential, we would like to reassure you that we have worked with many people successfully while both on and off medication. Occasionally a client may want to begin reducing their medication after attending one of our courses. Still, we reiterate that this should not be done without seeking the proper medical advice from a trained professional.

To begin your therapeutic journey with us, whether for individual sessions or our intensive programs, please feel free to contact us. You can call us directly at 0333 090 1376, complete the form on our ‘Contact Us’ page, or send an email to info@ocdtreatmentcentre.com. We’re here to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you might have.

Yes, we can travel to you for individual therapy sessions as needed. Please note, there is a 50% travel surcharge on our standard therapy rate. This helps cover the extra time our specialists spend traveling to provide high-quality service in such a short period of time.