Intensive Outpatient Program for Sexual Orientation OCD

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is the most effective treatment for OCD, including SO-OCD. The primary focus of CBT is to help the person challenge the irrational beliefs and cognitive distortions that drive the intrusive thoughts. For example, a person might believe that “if I have a fleeting thought about being attracted to the same sex, that means I must be gay.” CBT helps the person recognize that having thoughts or feelings does not necessarily define their identity, and that sexual orientation is much more than just isolated thoughts. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specific type of CBT, is particularly helpful. This involves exposing the person to situations, thoughts, or triggers that elicit their intrusive thoughts about their sexual orientation. ERP involves helping the person resist engaging in compulsive behaviors, like seeking reassurance or checking for evidence of their sexual orientation. By doing so, the individual learns that these compulsions don’t actually reduce anxiety in the long run, and over time, the anxiety decreases as the individual learns to sit with the uncertainty of the thoughts.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages the person to accept the presence of unwanted thoughts without judgment, while also focusing on living in accordance with their values and identity. For example, an individual might focus on living a life aligned with their personal values, regardless of the anxiety-producing thoughts they experience.

At The OCD Treatment Center we specialize in treating Sexual Orientation OCD. To get help for Sexual Orientation OCD, contact us today.