Exposure and Response Prevention for Pure Obsessional OCD-Slides: ERP for Pure O OCD

Slides: ERP for Pure O OCD

Pdf Summary

Rebecca R. Berry, Ph.D., presents a comprehensive overview of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for Pure Obsessional OCD, focusing on understanding unwanted intrusive thoughts and their transformation into obsessions. The presentation categorizes various themes of Pure Obsessional OCD, such as Harm OCD, Sexual Obsessions, Religious OCD, Moral Scrupulosity, and Relationship OCD, among others.<br /><br />The document highlights how thoughts become &quot;stuck,&quot; emphasizing the psychological principles that exacerbate obsessive thought patterns, such as the &quot;Ironic process of the Mind&quot; (Wegner) and cognitive biases like over-attending, over-valuing, and thought-action fusion.<br /><br />Berry outlines the cognitive-behavioral model of obsessions, describing a cycle where intrusive thoughts lead to catastrophic appraisals, heightened anxiety, and compulsive behaviors intended to manage stress. The crucial role of intolerance to uncertainty in OCD is discussed, advocating for ERP to address this by teaching acceptance.<br /><br />The treatment section details a structured approach to managing Pure Obsessional OCD, involving assessment, psychoeducation, and steps to shift the patient's response to intrusive thoughts. Techniques like imaginal exposure are utilized to confront anxiety-provoking thoughts. Treatment also involves modifying behaviors, embracing uncertainty, and aligning actions with core values.<br /><br />Key strategies include using thought defusion and mindfulness to alter one's relationship with intrusive thoughts, encouraging the acknowledgment and acceptance of anxiety, and focusing on value-driven actions despite discomfort.<br /><br />Practical resources, such as sample imaginal exposure scripts and exercises designed to confront compulsive thoughts, are provided. Berry emphasizes a commitment to a value-driven life and continued exposure-based activities, supported by key literature and resources in overcoming OCD.

Keywords

Exposure and Response Prevention

Pure Obsessional OCD

intrusive thoughts

obsessions

cognitive biases

intolerance to uncertainty

imaginal exposure

thought defusion

mindfulness

value-driven actions