cognitive behavior therapy
Harm OCD Therapy Near Me |
Near San Jose or Online in California
Do you struggle with unwanted, intrusive thoughts about harming yourself or others — even though, deep down, you know you would never act on them?
You may be experiencing Harm OCD, a common OCD subtype where fears of causing harm become persistent and distressing.
I offer specialized CBT and ERP therapy for Harm OCD, available in-person at my Campbell office near San Jose or online throughout California.
What is Harm OCD?
Harm OCD is characterized by overwhelming fears of causing harm to yourself or others, either intentionally or unintentionally. People with this type of OCD often experience intrusive thoughts or images about violent or harmful actions, which can feel distressing and terrifying, even though they are completely out of alignment with their true intentions.
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Common fears include:
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Hurting yourself or others, either on purpose or by accident
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Acting out violent or aggressive behaviors
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Losing control and causing harm
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Fearing that your thoughts or actions could lead to catastrophic consequences
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Individuals with harm OCD may respond to these obsessive thoughts with compulsive behaviors such as seeking reassurance, avoiding certain situations, or mentally “neutralizing” the feared action. While these responses provide temporary relief, they ultimately reinforce the cycle of anxiety and obsession.
Therapy can offer significant relief from the cycle of distressing thoughts and behaviors associated with harm OCD. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help clients confront their intrusive thoughts, reduce compulsive actions, and regain a sense of control and peace.
How Can I Tell if I Really Have Harm OCD?
Many individuals with harm OCD worry that their intrusive thoughts may not be a sign of OCD at all, but instead reflect a deeper, more dangerous part of themselves. This uncertainty can be especially distressing, as they fear that their thoughts may be an indication of true violent tendencies or intentions. However, it's important to understand that harm OCD is a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder, and the intrusive thoughts experienced are often completely out of character and unwanted. Here are some of the ways that an OCD expert can identify Harm OCD:
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​Intrusive vs. Intentional Thoughts:
Harm OCD involves distressing, intrusive thoughts about harming others that are unwanted and out of alignment with the person’s values. These individuals typically feel horrified by the thoughts. In contrast, someone who is a genuine threat may have consistent, intentional thoughts or plans about causing harm.
Level of Distress and Anxiety
Individuals with harm OCD experience significant anxiety, guilt, and distress about the intrusive thoughts. They often engage in compulsions or avoidance behaviors to prevent harm. Someone who is a real threat is less likely to experience this level of distress or anxiety regarding their thoughts or actions.
Empathy and Moral Concerns
People with harm OCD generally have strong moral values and empathy. They are deeply troubled by the mere possibility of harming others, which drives them to seek help. A person who poses a real threat may lack empathy or show little concern for the consequences of their actions.
Response to Therapy
Individuals with harm OCD tend to respond well to evidence-based treatments, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which help reduce the anxiety and compulsive behaviors associated with the obsessions. A person with harmful intentions may not show the same willingness or response to treatment.
Recovery from Harm OCD
The most effective treatment for Harm OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) — a specialized form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In therapy, you’ll work to:
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Face feared thoughts or triggers without engaging in compulsions or reassurance rituals
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Gain tolerance of uncertainty, images, or discomfort without mental reviewing
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Rebuild trust in yourself and your valuesIf useful
We may also integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) or Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT) to help you respond differently to intrusive thoughts and doubts.​​​
Why is it important to work with an OCD specialist?
Specialized Expertise: An OCD specialist has specific training in evidence-based treatments for OCD, such as Exposure and Response Prevention. Many therapies that help with other disorderes like anxiety and depression can actually make OCD worse.
Personalized Treatment: OCD specialists develop personalized treatment plans that address your unique symptoms, triggers, and goals. This individualized approach is crucial in OCD treatment, where one-size-fits-all methods may not be effective.
In-Depth Understanding: OCD specialists have a deep understanding of the complexities of OCD, including its various subtypes and how it can show up differently in individuals.
Proven Track Record: Choosing an OCD specialist means opting for a professional who has successfully helped many others overcome OCD symptoms. Effective treatment is within reach!
Frequently asked questions
About CAITLYN
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. I have been working as a therapist since 2009, specializing in Cognitive Behavior Therapy for anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorders. Before starting my own practice in 2021 I worked at a specialty anxiety/OCD group practice for many years, as well as community mental health, and school settings.
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My practice is located in Campbell, CA in the South SF Bay Area, near San Jose, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Los Altos, Mountain View, Sunnyvale and Cupertino.
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I have been working primarily with clients struggling with anxiety since 2012. ​Read more about my speciality training here.
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My approach to anxiety and OCD treatment is compassionate and personalized. This work is challenging but we will go at your pace and focus on the symptoms that are getting in the way of your life.
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Ready to get started or have more questions?
