OCD Assessment in Ontario

Do I have OCD?

I have often heard from many people who have OCD struggle with being unsure if what they are experiencing ‘counts’ as OCD. This is quite common for people who struggle with intrusive thoughts, mental and physical rituals, reassurance seeking, or avoidance, rather than some obvious compulsive behaviours. It’s important to note that OCD is not diagnosed based on the content of the thought, but rather the pattern in which thoughts, images, or urges create distress and lead to many (often repeated) attempts to feel certain, safe, and relieved. These attempts can present as physical or mental and may reduce anxiety temporarily, but strengthen symptoms over time.


Common Signs I May Have OCD


You may want to connect with me or another OCD specific professional (a must) if you notice some of the following:

  • Recurrent, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that feel intrusive or distressing

  • A strong urge to neutralize, check, analyze, or seek reassurance about these thoughts

  • Repetitive behaviours or mental rituals are performed to reduce anxiety or doubt.

  • Avoidance of people, places, or situations that trigger distressing thoughts

  • Significant time spent managing thoughts or rituals, often without lasting relief.

  • Awareness that the fears feel excessive, irrational, or out of proportion

What Does Ego Distonic Mean When it Comes to OCD?

Many people worry that the content of their thoughts means something about them and about who they are as a person. What we do know is that intrusive thoughts are often ego-dystonic. This means that they go against (or are inconsistent with) the person’s values, intentions, wants and desires. For example, someone may have intrusive thoughts about harming others despite having no desire, intention, or history of acting on these thoughts. The distress comes from having thoughts that don’t truly align with the person’s values.

How OCD is Assessed?

OCD can overlap with other anxiety related conditions; therefore, a formal assessment is done by me to help determine an OCD diagnosis. An assessment focuses on understanding how symptoms function, rather than merely discussing surface content. If you are interested in working with me, feel free to reach out and let's discuss a plan to get you better.