cognitive behavior therapy
Pure Obsessional (Pure O) OCD Therapy | In-Person near San Jose & Online Throughout California
CBT, ERP, and I-CBT for intrusive thoughts and mental compulsions
What Is Pure Obsessional OCD?
Pure Obsessional OCD — often called “Pure O” — is a form of OCD where the compulsions happen mostly in the mind. People with Pure O often experience disturbing, intrusive thoughts, images, or doubts and then engage in mental rituals to feel safer, more certain, or more in control.
These thoughts often target what you care about most: your relationships, your morals, your identity, your safety, or your values. The theme varies, but the pattern is the same — intrusive doubt followed by attempts to mentally “figure it out.”
Clarifying a Common Misunderstanding About “Pure O”
Although many people use the term Pure O, it’s actually a misnomer. It can feel like the problem is “only obsessions,” but there are always compulsions — they’re just internal and invisible.
People with Pure O often engage in mental rituals such as:
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Mentally reviewing or analyzing events
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Trying to “figure out” what a thought really means
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Seeking internal reassurance
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Checking feelings, intentions, or memories
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Silently repeating phrases or prayers
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Avoiding certain thoughts or topics
These are mental compulsions, and they serve the same function as physical ones: they temporarily reduce uncertainty while ultimately keeping OCD stuck.
A key part of treatment is learning to recognize these hidden patterns so you can respond differently to intrusive thoughts rather than getting pulled into the cycle.
Common Intrusive Thoughts in Pure O
Pure O can involve intrusive thoughts such as:
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“What if I secretly want this terrible thing to happen?”
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“What if I’m a bad person and don’t realize it?”
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“What if my partner isn’t really right for me?”
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“What if I acted inappropriately and don’t remember?”
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“What if this intrusive thought means something important about who I am?”
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“What if I lose control?”
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“What if I’m lying to myself?”
These thoughts feel threatening not because they reflect your values, but because OCD attaches urgency, fear, and moral significance to them.
My Approach to Just Right OCD
As a therapist who specializes in OCD and anxiety, I know how overwhelming Just Right OCD can feel, and how misunderstood it often is. My approach is structured and evidence-based, but also compassionate and collaborative. I’ll help you build confidence in facing fears, reduce your need for rituals, and create meaningful changes at a pace that feels manageable.
Treatment for Just Right OCD
In-Person and Online Therapy Options in California
I offer in-person therapy in Campbell, CA, conveniently located near San Jose, Los Gatos, and Saratoga, as well as virtual therapy across the state of California. Whether you're local or elsewhere in the state, you don’t have to keep managing OCD alone. If you've been searching for OCD therapy, evidence-based support is available.
Start Just Right OCD Therapy Today
If you’re ready to stop letting fear control your life, I’m here to help. Therapy can help you feel more grounded, free, and like yourself again.
Schedule a Consultation
Get a feel for my style and get your questions answered during our no-obligation phone screen.
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.
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.
I have been working primarily with clients struggling with anxiety since 2012. Read more about my speciality training here.
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.
Ready to get started or have more questions?
