- Kingston, Ontario
Harm OCD
You would never hurt anyone. And the thought that you somehow might is unbearable to you. That combination—a thought that repels you, and a fear that won’t let go—is the signature of Harm OCD.
- Free 15-Minute Phone Consultation
- No Commitment Required
- In-Person & Virtual Sessions
- Understanding OCD
What Harm OCD is
Harm OCD involves intrusive thoughts, images, or urges about harming yourself or someone else—often someone you love—or about “losing control” and doing something terrible. The thoughts feel vivid and real, and they’re followed by intense anxiety and a desperate need to be certain you’d never act on them.
An important truth
Harm OCD is not a sign that you are dangerous. If anything, it’s the opposite. These thoughts distress you precisely because harming someone is the last thing you want. Clinical experience and research are consistent on this: people with Harm OCD are not more likely to act on these thoughts.
The anguish itself is a hallmark of the disorder, not of intent. For many people, simply hearing that is the first real relief they’ve felt.
- BENEATH THE SURFACE
The theme is the disguise
To feel safe, people with Harm OCD often avoid knives and sharp objects, being alone with certain people, driving, and the news. Others check, mentally review what they “might” have done, confess the thoughts, or seek reassurance again and again. Each brings a moment of relief, and then tightens the grip.
Our Team
Your Harm OCD-Trained Team
These therapists have specific training in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
Victoria Davies
Registered Psychotherapist
How we help
ERP for Harm OCD helps you loosen that grip by gradually facing the thoughts and triggers you’ve been avoiding, without the checking, avoiding, and reassurance that keep them powerful. We do it carefully, collaboratively, and always at your pace, with a therapist who understands exactly what these thoughts are and what they aren’t.
These thoughts do not define you, and you don’t have to face them alone.
Our Space
Our Counselling Office in Kingston
