What we treat
OCD
Our therapists use evidence-based approaches like exposure and response prevention to support women living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), including intrusive thoughts that can appear or intensify during pregnancy, postpartum or other life transitions. Ask a question to learn how our virtual care can help.
How is OCD diagnosed?
OCD is identified through a careful clinical assessment with a licensed professional. You'll talk through the thoughts that feel intrusive or distressing, the rituals or checking you use to get relief, and how much time and energy they take each day. Your health history and recent life changes, such as having a baby, are part of the conversation too.
How does Femme Health support OCD?
Care starts with a personal intake in a judgment-free space. Intrusive thoughts can feel frightening or shameful to say out loud, and our team listens without assumptions.
In clinician-led virtual groups, you connect with women who understand what it's like to live with obsessions and compulsions. Hearing others share similar experiences can ease the isolation OCD often brings.
You're also paired with a primary therapist for individual sessions, and psychiatric medication management is available when clinically appropriate. Your care advocate helps with scheduling, costs and next steps.
Therapy options
Approaches that can help
Exposure and response prevention (ERP)
ERP gradually and safely helps you face the thoughts and situations that trigger anxiety, without turning to compulsions.
Over time, this can weaken the hold OCD has and help you trust that you can handle uncertainty.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT helps you understand the cycle between intrusive thoughts, anxiety and compulsions.
You'll learn to relate to thoughts differently, recognizing that having a thought doesn't mean it's true or that you'll act on it.
Learn moreMindfulness-based approaches
Mindfulness helps you notice intrusive thoughts and urges without reacting to them right away.
This can create space to pause and choose a response that fits your values instead of your fears.
Learn moreCommon questions about ocd
What is OCD?+
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a condition where unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) cause intense distress, and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) are used to try to ease it. OCD is common and treatable.
What are common types of OCD themes?+
OCD can center on many themes, including:
- Contamination: fears of germs or illness, with cleaning or washing
- Harm: unwanted thoughts of harm coming to yourself or others
- Checking: repeatedly checking locks, appliances or safety
- Symmetry and order: needing things to feel "just right"
- Perinatal and postpartum OCD: intrusive worries about a baby's safety
What are the symptoms of OCD?+
Symptoms can include:
- Intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images or urges
- Repeated checking, cleaning, counting or reassurance-seeking
- Avoiding places or situations that trigger fears
- Spending a lot of time on rituals each day
- Feeling anxious or distressed when rituals are interrupted
If you're having thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988 or call 911 right away.
Is it common to have intrusive thoughts after having a baby?+
Yes. Many new mothers experience upsetting intrusive thoughts about their baby's safety. These thoughts are usually unwanted and distressing precisely because they go against what you value. Talking with a professional can help.
What causes OCD?+
OCD likely comes from a mix of genetics, brain differences, stress and life changes such as pregnancy and postpartum. It's never caused by something you did wrong.
Ready to take the first step?
Get startedThis page is general information, not medical advice. In crisis? Call or text 988, or call 911.