Understanding OCD and Its Impact on Your Life

OCD is more than just a personality quirk or a desire for things to be clean or organized. It’s a mental health condition that causes intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and leads to repetitive actions or mental rituals (compulsions) aimed at reducing the distress these thoughts cause. While these behaviors might bring temporary relief, they ultimately reinforce the anxiety and create a vicious cycle.

At Light Within Counseling, we understand how OCD can hijack your thoughts, relationships, and daily routines. Whether your struggles are more obvious or hidden beneath the surface, we provide targeted, compassionate support to help you break free.

The Lived Experience of OCD

People with OCD often suffer in silence, feeling ashamed or confused by their thoughts and behaviors. These symptoms can manifest in different ways:

Obsessions may include:

• Fear of contamination or germs
• Worries about harming others or yourself (even if you never would)
• Unwanted sexual or religious thoughts
• Needing things to feel “just right”
• Fear of making mistakes or being responsible for something going wrong

Compulsions may include:

• Excessive cleaning or handwashing
• Checking doors, locks, appliances
• Mentally reviewing or repeating phrases
• Seeking reassurance from others
• Avoiding people, places, or topics that trigger anxiety

These patterns can take over your life—stealing time, eroding confidence, and isolating you from the things and people you love.

Specialized OCD Therapy: Why It Matters

OCD is highly treatable, but it requires the right kind of therapy. At Light Within Counseling, we use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. ERP helps you face your fears (exposure) while learning to resist the urge to perform rituals (response prevention). Over time, this rewires your brain’s response to anxiety, allowing you to live with greater freedom and peace.

We also incorporate other effective modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ACT, Brainspotting, and EMDR when trauma or emotion regulation challenges are contributing to OCD symptoms.

Common OCD Subtypes We Treat

OCD can look very different from person to person. We treat a wide range of OCD presentations, including:

• Contamination OCD – fear of germs, illness, or environmental toxins
• Harm OCD – fear of causing harm to yourself or others
• Relationship OCD (ROCD) – obsessive doubts about your partner or relationship
• Scrupulosity – religious or moral obsessions
• Sensorimotor OCD – hyper-awareness of bodily sensations
• Sexual orientation or identity OCD – intrusive thoughts about identity that don’t reflect your actual desires
• Perfectionism or “just right” OCD – distress when things feel off or incomplete
• Health OCD – obsessive worries about illness or body functioning

No matter how your OCD shows up, we see you—and we know how to help.

Benefits of Seeking Professional OCD Treatment

Trying to fight OCD on your own can feel like swimming upstream. Professional support offers:

1. Expertise in OCD-Specific Treatment

Our therapists have advanced training in ERP and other evidence-based approaches specifically designed for OCD. We stay current with research and tailor therapy to your symptoms, learning style, and values.

2. Personalized Treatment Plans

We don’t use a one-size-fits-all model. Your treatment plan will reflect your specific challenges and goals, helping you move at a pace that’s effective—but not overwhelming.

3. A Safe, Supportive Environment

We know how vulnerable it can feel to talk about intrusive thoughts or compulsions. Our therapy rooms are nonjudgmental, confidential spaces where you can be met with compassion, not shame.

4. Group Support for OCD

We offer group therapy for OCD, including groups for adults, teens, and parents of children with OCD. Group therapy provides a place to connect with others who truly understand the struggle—and to practice new skills in a supportive environment.

Hope and Help for Children, Teens, and Adults

OCD can affect anyone—children, adolescents, and adults alike. At Light Within Counseling, our therapists are trained to work across the lifespan and adjust approaches to meet developmental needs. We also partner closely with parents, empowering them to support their child’s treatment with confidence.

Serving Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, and Greater Sacramento

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been battling OCD for years, healing is possible. You don’t have to keep living under OCD’s rules. At Light Within Counseling, we’re here to help you find freedom and reclaim your life—one step at a time.

Learning Effective Coping Skills for OCD

Professional treatment for OCD equips you with practical, research-backed tools to manage obsessions and resist compulsions in real time. These skills include:

• Mindfulness techniques to stay grounded when intrusive thoughts arise
• Urge-surfing strategies to ride out the discomfort of resisting compulsions
• Cognitive restructuring to challenge distorted beliefs related to obsessions
• Response prevention tools to break the compulsion cycle
• Nervous system regulation to reduce the physical intensity of OCD-related anxiety

OCD is not just about having anxious thoughts—it’s about what your brain tells you those thoughts mean. Effective therapy helps you learn that a thought is just a thought, and you don’t have to obey it.

Long-Term Resilience Building

OCD therapy is about more than just stopping rituals. It’s about building a life that is not dictated by fear or mental rules. Through consistent work in treatment, clients often experience:

• Increased self-awareness of how OCD operates in their mind and body
• Stronger emotional regulation in the face of triggering thoughts
• Improved relationships, no longer strained by secrecy or compulsive behaviors
• Greater confidence and trust in their ability to handle distress
• Self-compassion, recognizing that OCD is not a character flaw

This long-term resilience is what allows you to experience freedom—not just from compulsions, but from the grip OCD can have on your identity.

Our Evidence-Based Therapeutic Approaches for OCD

At Light Within Counseling, we specialize in treating OCD using evidence-based methods proven to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Each approach is tailored to your unique symptoms, triggers, and goals.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy

ERP is the gold standard treatment for OCD and our therapists are deeply trained in this powerful approach. ERP involves:

• Gradual, intentional exposure to feared thoughts, images, or situations
• Response prevention, which means not giving in to the urge to do a ritual, seek reassurance, or avoid
• Learning to tolerate uncertainty—the core of OCD healing

ERP teaches you that you can have scary thoughts without doing something to neutralize them. Over time, the thoughts lose their power, and your confidence in your ability to handle them grows.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for OCD

CBT provides a strong foundation for understanding OCD’s cognitive distortions. While ERP is the main tool, CBT can support the process by helping you:

• Identify obsessive thinking patterns and reframe them
• Challenge the belief that thoughts = danger or truth
• Understand the role of compulsions in maintaining OCD
• Develop behavioral experiments to test your OCD-related fears

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT is an excellent complement to ERP, especially for clients who struggle with perfectionism, shame, or wanting to “feel certain” before acting. ACT teaches you to:

• Be willing to feel discomfort without giving in to compulsions
• Accept intrusive thoughts as part of the human experience
• Stay focused on what matters to you—your values—not what OCD demands
• Commit to actions that align with your values, even when anxiety is present

ACT is especially helpful for clients who feel stuck trying to “get rid” of OCD thoughts and instead want to learn how to live well with them.

Brainspotting and EMDR for OCD with Trauma Roots

Many individuals with OCD have experienced trauma, emotional invalidation, or chronic stress that intensified their symptoms. For clients with trauma alongside OCD, we offer:

• Brainspotting, which helps identify and process emotionally charged material stored deep in the brain
• EMDR, which can target memories or beliefs that reinforce OCD (e.g., “If I make a mistake, something terrible will happen”)

These approaches are used alongside ERP—not instead of it—for clients whose OCD is rooted in painful past experiences that may be interfering with ERP progress.

At Light Within Counseling, we believe effective OCD treatment is compassionate, collaborative, and deeply empowering. You’re not broken—your brain just got stuck in a loop. With the right tools, support, and courage, freedom is absolutely possible.

Play Therapy for Children with OCD

Children with OCD may struggle to express their emotions and fears with words. Play therapy offers a developmentally appropriate approach, helping children with OCD:

• Process intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors through play
• Learn coping skills in an engaging, non-threatening way
• Build emotional resilience through therapeutic play activities
• Express themselves in their natural “language” of play

At Light Within Counseling, our child specialists create a safe environment, helping children explore their feelings and develop healthy ways to manage OCD symptoms.

Parenting and Co-Parenting Therapy for Parents of Children with OCD

Parents play a vital role in supporting their children with OCD. Our parenting therapy services help:

• Understand how OCD presents in children at different developmental stages
• Learn specific strategies to support a child through OCD challenges
• Address family dynamics that may unintentionally reinforce OCD behaviors
• Develop consistent approaches between parents, especially in co-parenting situations
• Create a home environment that fosters emotional security and reduces OCD triggers

This approach recognizes that treating a child’s OCD is most effective when parents have the knowledge and tools to support them.

Who We Serve at Light Within Counseling

Light Within Counseling provides specialized care for individuals with OCD throughout Roseville and surrounding areas:

• Adults with OCD: We offer therapy that addresses both the symptoms and root causes of OCD, providing practical strategies for daily life and supporting relationships, work, and personal fulfillment.
• Teens with OCD: OCD in adolescence can significantly affect development. Our teen therapy focuses on identity, peer relationships, and academic pressures while providing age-appropriate coping skills.
• Children with OCD: Our child specialists use play therapy and other age-appropriate techniques to address OCD symptoms, working collaboratively with parents and schools to support emotional development and reduce compulsive behaviors.

Serving Roseville, Sacramento, and Surrounding Communities

Light Within Counseling proudly serves the following areas for OCD treatment:

• Roseville, CA (primary location)
• Lincoln, CA
• Rocklin, CA
• Auburn, CA
• Granite Bay, CA
• Loomis, CA
• Orangevale, CA
• West Roseville, CA
• Sacramento, CA

We also offer telehealth services for adults with OCD who prefer virtual sessions or cannot attend in-person therapy.

The Expertise of Our Team

At Light Within Counseling, our team is dedicated to providing specialized care for OCD. Inspired by leaders in the field like Dr. Robin Zasio, we strive to embody her level of expertise in treating OCD.

Our therapists:

• Participate in ongoing specialized training in OCD treatment
• Stay current with the latest research and treatment innovations
• Utilize evidence-based approaches like ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) therapy
• Provide compassionate care with every client interaction

When you choose Light Within Counseling, you’re selecting a team with the knowledge, expertise, and commitment to help you overcome OCD and reclaim your life.

What to Expect When Beginning OCD Treatment at Light Within Counseling

Starting therapy for OCD can feel overwhelming, but our team is here to make the process as comfortable as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Contact and Scheduling

When you reach out to our OCD treatment center, we’ll:

• Provide a prompt, friendly response
• Help determine if we’re a good fit for your needs
• Offer clear information about appointment availability
• Assist you with insurance and payment options

Comprehensive Assessment

Your first session will involve a thorough assessment to develop a personalized treatment plan. This includes:

• Discussing your current OCD symptoms and how they affect your life
• Exploring your history and relevant background information
• Identifying your goals for therapy
• Explaining the recommended treatment approaches
• Answering any questions you have about the process

Verify Insurance Coverage

Before starting treatment, we recommend verifying your insurance coverage for mental health services. While Light Within Counseling works with out-of-network benefits, many plans offer coverage for OCD treatment. We can help you:

• Check your out-of-network benefits
• Understand your deductible and reimbursement rates
• Prepare documentation for insurance submission
• Explore alternative payment options if needed

Collaborative Treatment Planning

Together with your therapist, you’ll:

• Set clear, achievable goals for OCD treatment
• Develop a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs
• Decide on the frequency and duration of sessions
• Track progress and adjust the plan as needed

Ongoing Therapy

As therapy progresses, you can expect:

• Regular sessions focused on treating OCD symptoms
• Introduction to ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and other coping strategies
• Gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking situations (when appropriate)
• Regular progress assessments and treatment plan adjustments

Support for Loved Ones

Involving loved ones in OCD treatment can be crucial. With your permission, we offer:

• Education for family members about OCD
• Guidance on how to support you effectively
• Communication strategies to reduce conflict and improve understanding
• Resources to help family members manage their own stress

Including significant others in therapy, when appropriate, helps create an environment outside of sessions that reinforces your progress and healing.

Preparation for Completion
Therapy for OCD isn’t meant to last forever. As you make progress and gain confidence in managing your symptoms, your therapist will help you:

• Consolidate the tools and strategies you’ve learned during ERP and other interventions
• Develop a relapse prevention plan specific to OCD
• Address any fears or doubts about maintaining progress on your own
• Create a schedule for gradually spacing out sessions
• Discuss options for future support if OCD symptoms resurface

We want you to leave therapy feeling empowered, not dependent. The end of therapy is a celebration of your strength and the skills you’ve built.

Frequently Asked Questions About OCD Treatment

What is the most effective therapy for OCD?
The gold standard treatment for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, a specialized form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. ERP involves gradually facing feared situations (exposures) while resisting the urge to engage in compulsions (response prevention).

At Light Within Counseling, we specialize in ERP and also integrate ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Brainspotting, and EMDR when OCD is rooted in trauma or emotion-based processing challenges. We tailor our approach based on your unique symptoms and treatment goals.

How long does OCD treatment typically take?
The duration of OCD treatment depends on several factors, including:

• The severity and complexity of your OCD symptoms
• The presence of co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, or trauma
• Your willingness to engage in exposures and resist compulsions
• The consistency with which you apply skills outside of sessions

Some clients begin to see meaningful improvement in 12-20 sessions, while others benefit from longer-term work. Your therapist will give you a personalized estimate after your initial assessment.

How is an OCD treatment center different from a general therapy practice?
An OCD treatment center like Light Within Counseling offers:

• A specialized focus on OCD and related disorders
• Therapists trained specifically in ERP and evidence-based OCD treatments
• A team approach, allowing for collaboration and continuity of care
• Access to complementary services like parenting support and trauma-informed therapies
• A deep understanding of OCD subtypes (such as ROCD, harm OCD, contamination OCD, and more)

We’re not just generalists—we’re OCD specialists who understand the nuances of intrusive thoughts, mental compulsions, and the impact OCD has on your life.

Can OCD be cured?
OCD is a chronic condition, but it is highly treatable. Many people with OCD achieve lasting relief through therapy. While intrusive thoughts may still show up from time to time, the intensity and disruption can decrease significantly.

Our goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. With ERP and supportive strategies, you’ll learn how to manage OCD so that it no longer controls your life.

Do you accept insurance for OCD treatment?
Light Within Counseling is an out-of-network provider, meaning we don’t bill insurance directly. However, many of our clients successfully use their out-of-network benefits to receive partial reimbursement.

We’ll help you:

• Understand your out-of-network coverage
• Navigate deductibles and claims
• Get the documentation you need for reimbursement
• Explore sliding scale options, if applicable

We’ll walk you through the financial aspects so you can focus on healing, not paperwork.

What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist for OCD?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. For OCD, this may include SSRIs or other medications to help manage symptoms.

A therapist (like those at Light Within Counseling) provides behavioral interventions such as ERP, which is essential for long-term OCD management. Medication and therapy often work best together. If needed, we’ll collaborate with your psychiatrist or help you find one.

Our owner and therapist, Kelsey Thompson, LMFT is certified in ERP therapy. All other therapists are also ERP trained. 

Is telehealth therapy effective for OCD?
Yes! Telehealth is highly effective for treating OCD, especially when ERP is delivered by a trained specialist. Many clients prefer virtual sessions because:

• They can do exposures in their real-life environment
• It eliminates the stress of traveling to an office
• It fits more easily into their busy life
• It increases access to care if local specialists are limited

We offer telehealth across California for adults, teens, and parents seeking support for OCD.

Beginning Your Journey Toward OCD Recovery at Light Within Counseling

You don’t have to live under the weight of OCD. Whether you’re struggling with intrusive thoughts, time-consuming rituals, or emotional exhaustion, Light Within Counseling is here to help.

Our therapists are highly trained in ERP and also bring expertise in trauma-informed care, parenting support, and child/adolescent OCD treatment. We serve individuals and families across Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Granite Bay, Loomis, Auburn, West Roseville, Sacramento, and beyond—both in person and virtually.

We know reaching out for OCD treatment takes courage. You’re not alone. We’ll meet you with compassion, clinical expertise, and a clear plan for recovery.

The first step is the hardest—but also the most powerful. Call or visit our website to schedule your first session. Let’s walk this healing path together—one small step at a time.