The OCD Course is an eCentreClinic Course that provides free internet based treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The OCD Course is designed to teach people with OCD practical strategies for managing their OCD symptoms. We developed the OCD Course because the symptoms of OCD often make it difficult to seek treatment. People with OCD often also find it difficult to access effective treatment. Internet based treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder helps to overcome some of the barriers to accessing treatment.

What does the OCD Course involve?

The OCD Course includes

• 5 lessons to provide information and teach practical skills
• Homework assignments to help you practice the skills
• Lots of additional resources

The Course is designed to provide you with the information that you would normally receive from face-to-face treatment from a Clinical Psychologist. Please note that learning to overcome symptoms of OCD takes determination and commitment. We expect that during the Course you will have to invest one hour each day working on the skills described in the materials. It is hard work!

To learn more about OCD, click here or download an OCD factsheet here.

Who is the OCD Course Suitable For?

The OCD Course is suitable for:

• People aged 18 to 65 years

• People with symptoms of OCD. This includes people who experience obsessions or compulsions or both.

Each person with OCD has very different symptoms, but they usually include very similar themes. Some of the main themes seen in obsessions include:

1. Harming/Doubting Obsessions: These include concerns about causing harm to themselves or to others on purpose, or because they are not careful enough.

2. Contamination Obsessions: These include concerns about becoming contaminated from dirt or germs, bodily waste or secretions, or environmental contaminants (such as household cleaners, asbestos etc).

3. Ordering/Arranging Obsessions: These include a need for things to be symmetrical, ordered, or perfect, to prevent bad things happening or because it just feels “right”.

4. Unacceptable Thoughts: These include repetitive and upsetting thoughts, images, or urges of a religious, sexual or aggressive nature.

Some of the things people with OCD might do to try to cope with their anxiety or distress (their compulsions) include:

1. Excessive checking, washing, cleaning and arranging,

2. Repeating routine activities.

3. They may also have mental activities they must do such as saying a silent prayer or repeating ‘safe’ words or phrases.

4. People with OCD also tend to try to avoid situations that provoke their obsessions/anxiety.

Unfortunately we cannot include people who are currently suicidal, or who do not have access to the Internet, or who are not Australian residents. We also cannot accept anyone who is currently undergoing psychological treatment for OCD. Before applying, please read some important information about our Courses here. Please do read this information if you have not already. You can also find out more by reading our Frequently Asked Questions.

Not sure if our Courses are right for you? Please feel free to email us, or contact us on (02) 9850-9971.

Our Next Research Trial

Our first trial of the OCD Course showed encouraging results with most people achieving significant reductions in their symptoms. All participants reported that the Course was good enough to recommend to a friend with OCD and 71% of participants no longer met criteria for OCD at the end of treatment. We are pleased about these results and have revised the Course based on feedback from those participants.

Applications for the next trial of the OCD Course are now open, and will close at the end May. To apply for the course, click on the button below.