OCD

Definition:

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by:

1. Uncontrollable and recurring thoughts (obsessions).

2. And/or repetitive behaviours that a person feels driven to perform (compulsions).

Common examples of obsessions include: fear of germs, excessive concerns about order or symmetry, and forbidden thoughts or urges.

Common examples of compulsions include: excessive handwashing, checking, counting, arranging, or constantly seeking reassurance.

These obsessions and compulsions can cause significant distress or interfere with daily life.

Facts:

According to the latest research on UK adults:

Approximately 1 in 50 people experience OCD at some point in their lives.

OCD is thought to affect 750,000 people (1.2% of the UK population)

Peak onset times are between the ages of 10 and 21.

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Science:

OCD is a complex disorder influenced by a combination of factors.

OCD is linked to dysfunction in specific brain circuits, the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) loop, which involves communication between the frontal cortex, basal ganglia, and thalamus.

Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate are also associated with OCD.

OCD runs in families. If you have a family member who has OCD you are more likely to develop OCD. Twin studies suggest a genetic component to OCD, with identical twins having a higher chance of both having the condition compared to fraternal twins.

Faulty beliefs and thought patterns contribute to the development and continuation of OCD.

Stressful life events, such as trauma or grief can trigger or worsen OCD symptoms.

Streptococcal, a childhood infection, has also been linked to the onset of OCD symptoms, potentially due to an autoimmune response.

OCD is far from simple.

How hypnotherapy can help:

Hypnotherapy can be a helpful tool in managing OCD by reducing anxiety and helping you challenge negative thought patterns and change damaging behaviour.

  • You will experience deep relaxation to relieve you of any anxiety symptoms that accompany OCD.

  • You will learn to reframe your thoughts and challenge negative thought patterns associated with OCD. 

  • You will tackle the root cause of your OCD.

  • You will complete practical exercises including creating an OCD inventory.

  • You will learn reframing, affirmations and positive thinking, replacing anxious thoughts with more constructive ones.

  • You will explore OCD inside and out, putting you in a better position to spot the warning signs more quickly. 

  • You will be taught relaxation and release techniques.

  • You will learn coping mechanisms including anchoring, colour breathing and self-hypnosis to equip you with in-the-moment anxiety relief.

  • You will experience ego-strengthening to lift your mood and build a positive sense of self.

  • You will review and revisit impactful memories enabling you to re-code a new and improved response. 

  • You will experience age progression and future mapping enabling you to consolidate your new and improved response. 

  • You will receive direct suggestions, leveraging your neuroplasticity and encouraging the formation of new neural pathways which is vital for long-lasting change.

Book a FREE Discovery Call

Book a FREE Discovery Call

Transformation in 3 Simple Steps

  1. Discovery Call

20 minutes - Free

2. Initial Consultation

60 minutes - £25

3. Hypnotherapy Session

60 minutes - £85

Testimonials

Amanda

“Working with Gemma has been a truly transformative experience. When I first started therapy, I was overwhelmed by stress and struggling to cope. Through your compassionate and insightful approach, you helped me understand the roots of my stress and gave me practical tools to manage it effectively. What stood out most was the safe, nonjudgmental space that you created—one where I felt heard, supported, and empowered to make real changes. Thank you for helping me to regain a sense of clarity, calm, and confidence in facing daily challenges. I’m incredibly grateful for your support and would highly recommend Gemma to anyone navigating stress or seeking mental wellness.”

Genevieve

“Managing and running my own business results in me having a lot of stress and coping with a huge amount of other people’s stresses too. I contacted Gemma about hypnotherapy and whether she thought that may help. I was really impressed with her personal and professional manner throughout our first meeting, instantly grasping what industry I worked in and showing empathy for the areas of life that I found most stressful. Gemma’s thorough initial information gathering was evident throughout our four sessions, demonstrating her attentive listening and accurate understanding of my situation, thoughts, and feelings. Even now in times of stress I still mentally use the green shiny pebble in my pocket creating space and allowing me to breath and realign my thoughts. I would highly recommend Gemma for any hypnotherapy sessions that you may be thinking about.”

Simran

“I had the privilege of participating in hypnotherapy sessions with Gemma to help me manage stress and the experience truly exceeded my expectations. From the first session, she created a warm, professional, and safe environment that immediately put me at ease. Gemma listened with empathy and tailored each session to address the root causes of my stress. She exhibited outstanding expertise, perceptiveness, and attentiveness throughout the process. Through gentle and effective techniques, she helped me access a deeper sense of calm and control that I hadn’t experienced in a long time. I noticed a significant change in my emotional state and my ability to handle daily pressures more easily and resiliently. What impressed me most was her genuine care and commitment. She clearly wanted the best for me and took the time to ensure each session was meaningful and impactful. I wholeheartedly recommend Gemma to anyone struggling with stress or looking for a more balanced, peaceful approach to life. This experience has been a turning point, and I’m genuinely grateful. Thank you, Gemma!!”

Jo

“I had a Hypnotherapy session with Gemma to quit smoking. Gemma was professional throughout, discussing her ethical boundaries with me and quickly established a good rapport. She explained how the session would work creating a comfortable environment. I was unsure what to expect, as I haven't done anything like this before, but I have been smoke and vape free since the session and haven't felt the need to do so. Gemma did a great job and I'd highly recommend her.”

Holly

“Gemma was brilliant, from the moment I stepped into the room she made me feel calm and at ease. Any questions I had were answered clearly and she listened carefully and compassionately to me throughout our work together. I can safely say that if you put your all into therapy, you get a whole lot more out of it than you will ever have expected. Thank you Gemma.”

Ryan

“It was a pleasurable and relaxing experience having hypnotherapy. Gemma is very attentive, professional and engaging.”