What is I-CBT?

CBT

People with OCD often create imaginary or exaggerated scenarios in their minds about what could happen if certain things were to occur. These are known as obsessional stories. Here are a few examples:

What is I-CBT?

If I touch this doorknob, I will get sick three days later and ruin my weekend.  

I must say “I love you” to my family members every time I leave the house or something horrible will happen.  

I need to get straight As, because that is who I am.  

I am bad luck and I cannot let myself be close to others because I will bring my bad luck into their lives.  

In I-CBT (Inference-based CBT), the therapist helps the client explore how they started to believe in their obsessional stories. The therapist also asks why these thoughts or doubts feel so real. We often become attached to the stories we tell ourselves, and over time, these made-up scenarios start to shape who we are.

Why do we get so stuck on our assumptions? For many people with OCD, their anxious minds believe that the world is dangerous or that they are not good enough.

Inference CBT is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) developed by Dr. Stephen P. Shuchter and Dr. Robert L. Leahy in the 1980s, mainly to treat Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). This approach focuses on identifying the core beliefs and underlying assumptions linked to OCD and helping individuals change them into more positive, helpful thoughts to support their recovery.

Inference CBT encourages people to examine their own assumptions and beliefs by questioning and challenging them. It also helps them develop new, less anxious ways of thinking.

Through this process, individuals gain a better understanding of their thought patterns and can change how they view situations or experiences. The goal is to move away from distorted thinking and towards healthier, more accurate views of the world and ourselves.

The main goal of Inference CBT is to help individuals take control of their thoughts and behaviors, and better manage the distressing symptoms of OCD.

By focusing on core beliefs and assumptions, and encouraging self-reflection, Inference CBT helps people change their thinking and behavior patterns, leading to improved mental health. This approach can be especially helpful for those who aren’t ready for more intense treatments, like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and who don’t yet feel motivated to face their fears.

For more information on I-CBT, visit the founder’s website https://icbt.online/ and reach out to Kairos Wellness Collective today.  

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I-CBT skills for OCD: How to Recognize Obsessional Doubt vs. Healthy Doubt

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