How to Support Someone with OCD
By : Katherine Pica LCSW
How to Support Someone with OCD
Supporting someone with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be both deeply meaningful and, at times, incredibly challenging. OCD is often misunderstood. It is often reduced in popular culture to quirks about cleanliness, neatness or routines. But the reality is far more complex. OCD involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that the person feels driven to perform. These symptoms can be overwhelming and exhausting—for the person experiencing them and for those who care for them.
If someone you love is living with OCD, you may be wondering how best to help. Here are some thoughtful, research-backed ways to offer real support.
Step Into Their World—With Permission
Ask if you can join a therapy session or two. We love having family members join sessions! As long as our client is willing we welcome family sessions! Sitting in on even one meeting can give you a clearer picture of how OCD shows up for your loved one and what tools they’re learning in treatment. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold standard for OCD, works by helping individuals face their fears while resisting the urge to perform compulsions. When you understand the work they’re doing in therapy, you’re better equipped to cheer them on.
Encourage the Right Kind of Help
If your loved one isn’t in treatment yet, gently guide them toward care (especially a provider trained in ERP). Not all therapy is created equal when it comes to OCD. General talk therapy can sometimes backfire, unintentionally reinforcing compulsions. ERP, on the other hand, is specifically designed to target the OCD cycle in a safe, structured way.
Be Supportive, Not Enabling
It’s natural to want to ease your loved one’s distress. But doing so or by participating in rituals or offering endless reassurance can actually make things harder for them in the long run. Instead of helping them avoid anxiety, try saying, “I know this is hard, and I believe in your ability to get through it.” That kind of support helps build resilience, not grow their OCD.
Learn About OCD
The more you understand OCD, the more helpful you’ll be. Read about the different subtypes (it’s not just about germs or organizing), learn how compulsions can be both physical and mental, and explore what recovery really looks like. Educating yourself shows your loved one that you care enough to meet them where they are—and that you’re committed to walking alongside them.
Protect Your Own Well-Being
You can’t support someone else if you’re running on empty. Setting healthy boundaries is not selfish—it’s necessary! Let your loved one know when you need time to recharge. A simple, honest statement like “I want to be here for you, but I need some space right now” honors both your needs and theirs. Or “I love you give me a little time” can also be a kind statement while setting boundaries.
Encourage a Life Beyond OCD
Often OCD has taken away things that people value. Help your loved one reconnect with the things they value! Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, spending time with friends, or taking small steps towards a goal. Sometimes OCD can prevent loved ones from enjoying their lives. We want to help them bring back that joy and get back into their life! These moments of purpose and pleasure can remind them (and you) that there’s more to life than OCD!
Be Mindful of Reassurance
OCD often demands certainty—and loved ones are usually the first ones asked to provide it. But repeatedly answering “Are you sure?” or “Do you think I’m okay?” can reinforce compulsive loops. Instead of reassuring, try validating their experience: “It makes sense that you’re feeling anxious right now, and I know you can do this.” This supports them emotionally without feeding the OCD cycle. We can support our loved ones without growing their OCD.
Take Care of You, Too
Supporting someone with OCD can stir up a lot: frustration, sadness, helplessness. Finding support for yourself whether through a therapist, a support group, or trusted friends can help you manage those feelings and stay grounded. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be especially helpful if you’re struggling with your own thoughts and emotions around your loved one’s OCD.
OCD treatment San Diego, CA
At Resilience Counseling, we understand how complex and isolating OCD can feel—not just for those experiencing it firsthand, but for their families as well. Our team is specifically trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard treatment for OCD. We work with children, teens, and adults, tailoring each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of the individual. Whether someone is dealing with intrusive thoughts, mental rituals, rumination or overwhelming compulsions, we take a thoughtful and evidence-based approach. Our treatment is grounded in compassion and a collaborative approach .
What sets us apart is the level of care we offer beyond just symptoms. Our team has specilized training in co-occurring issues like anxiety disorders, trauma, depression, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), and we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We work with families, offering parent guidance and tools like the SPACE program when working with kids and teens. Our goal is always to help people reconnect with their values and reclaim a sense of control and meaning in their lives.
Book a consultation to learn how therapy can help your family move forward, together.
Author Bio: Katherine Pica OCD Treatment - San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica is the owner and clinical director of Resilience Counseling. She supervises all the therapists at Resilience Counseling. She has been practicing since 2007 for over 18 years! Trained in ERP for OCD and EMDR for Trauma. Katherine brings years of experience to her team! Available in San Diego, CA for session in person and all over California for virtual therapy.
OCD therapy and other areas of treatment in the
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Disclaimer : The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional and or medical advice, diagnosis, and or treatment. It is important to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health and/or medical condition. Never disregard any professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Resilience Counseling website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 or local emergency number immediately.
