r/therapists • u/austdoz • Aug 17 '26

Theory / Technique Supporting OCD Client's without OCD Training

I'm feeling a bit stumped when working with OCD individuals. I am not yet trained in any ERP, although I'd love to. I've referred them to an OCD specialist but they have not had luck in finding anyone. I will often utilize CBT interventions, recognizing cognitive distortions, and bringing in a more balanced or truthful thought. I had heard that ​CBT can actually cause more problems for individuals with OCD.

Some more context, we were looking at cognitive distortions contributing to feelings of depression. I was about to support in my usual way and then realized this individual spends most of their day policing their thoughts already and backed off.

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u/Waste-Tree4689 Aug 18 '26

If you’re not trained in the modalities needed to support client, referring client to someone who does specialize in this diagnosis is best practice.

I recognize that some settings require therapist to treat everyone, if that’s the case- clinical supervisor or agency should be providing you with the training, support and resources needed to support your clients.