When Treatment is Stuck: Resistance in OCD Therapy
Most cases of OCD treatment involve ups and downs in progress. However, there are times when we face strong challenges. While the goal is to view OCD as something separate from your true self, it can often feel deeply tied to your identity. Sometimes, it’s hard to picture who you are without the habits and behaviors OCD brings, and you might rely on these familiar ways of responding to the world. It can feel easier, at least for a while, to stay in the comfort of OCD patterns.
In cases where our clinicians and clients find themselves stuck, we must ask ourselves the following questions.
Should we consider other modalities?
Treating OCD isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Even though we have guidebooks and step-by-step treatment plans for different fears, it’s not enough to stick to just one method. I often work with clients who have similar challenges but respond to very different approaches. Finding the right treatment requires creativity and humility from the therapist, along with a strong, open relationship with the client. This way, the client feels comfortable saying, “This isn’t working,” so we can adjust the approach accordingly.
2. Should we consider medical interventions?
If OCD therapy seems to have stalled, it might be time to work with a medical professional who can recommend supplements, medications, lab tests, or lifestyle adjustments to help you move forward. At Kairos, we collaborate with various holistic medical experts to provide additional support. Effective treatment should address the whole body, including brain chemistry.
3. Is the family system accommodating the OCD?
The way a family interacts and behaves plays a big role in how successful OCD therapy can be. When therapy doesn’t include the family, progress is often slower. Families usually try to maintain their usual way of functioning, or “balance.” This means they tend to stick to familiar patterns, which can make it harder for any one family member to make meaningful progress.
4. Does the client need to meet others with OCD?
At Kairos, we offer strong group programs because we believe they can help reduce resistance to treatment by allowing people to connect with others at different stages of OCD recovery. Seeing someone with more severe OCD can show clients how the condition can worsen if left untreated, while meeting someone further along in recovery can inspire hope for improvement. Group settings also provide a space to overcome treatment resistance, as participants often share valuable insights and experiences that even professionals may not have.
Contact us today to learn more about OCD Therapy and how we can help you get ‘un-stuck’.
