Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Madison, WI

 

Compassionate OCD Treatment in a Supportive Environment for All Residents of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Internationally 

Are you or a loved one struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? At Lakeside Counseling Center, we specialize in the evidence-based treatment of OCD using Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the most effective approach for managing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

 
 

What Is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a chronic mental health condition involving persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). These symptoms can be time-consuming and distressing, significantly interfering with daily life.

Common Symptoms of OCD:

  • Obsessions: Unwanted, distressing thoughts, images, or urges (e.g., fear of contamination, harming others, or things being “not right”).

  • Compulsions: Repetitive actions or mental rituals performed to reduce anxiety (e.g., hand washing, checking, counting, repeating phrases silently).

If you find yourself trapped in a cycle of intrusive thoughts and ritualistic behaviors, you may be experiencing OCD.

 
 

What Does an OCD Diagnosis Involve?

A diagnosis of OCD is made through a clinical assessment by a licensed mental health professional. At Lakeside Counseling Center, our experienced therapists carefully evaluate your symptoms using diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition).

Diagnostic Criteria for OCD Include:

  • The presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both

  • Symptoms that are time-consuming (typically more than 1 hour per day)

  • Significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning

  • Symptoms not better explained by another mental health condition or substance use

We understand that every individual’s experience with OCD is unique. Our intake process is compassionate, confidential, and designed to help you feel heard and understood.

Effective OCD Treatment: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy

At Lakeside Counseling Center, we offer ERP therapy for OCD—widely regarded as one of the most effective psychological treatments for OCD.

What Is ERP Therapy?

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a structured form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that helps you face your fears and break the cycle of compulsions.

  • Exposure involves intentionally confronting the thoughts, images, or situations that trigger your anxiety.

  • Response Prevention means resisting the urge to perform compulsive behaviors that typically follow those triggers.

Through guided practice, ERP helps you learn that your anxiety decreases over time and that you can tolerate distress without relying on rituals.

What You Can Expect with ERP:

  • Gradual, personalized exposure exercises

  • Collaborative, supportive therapy sessions

  • Reduction in OCD symptoms and overall anxiety

  • Tools to manage uncertainty and regain control

Why Choose Lakeside Counseling Center?

  •  Expert OCD Specialists: Licensed clinicians with advanced training in ERP and OCD treatment.

  • Thorough Assessments: We provide clear, accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans.

  • Whole-Person Approach: We treat the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral aspects of OCD.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Don’t let OCD control your life. If you're experiencing overwhelming intrusive thoughts or feel stuck in a loop of compulsive behavior, you're not alone—and you don't have to suffer in silence.

Let the team at Lakeside Counseling Center help you break free through proven OCD therapy with ERP.