OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) features a pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead you to do repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions interfere with daily activities and cause significant distress.
You may try to ignore or stop your obsessions, but that only increases your distress and anxiety. Ultimately, you feel driven to perform compulsive acts to try to ease your stress. Despite efforts to ignore or get rid of bothersome thoughts or urges, they keep coming back. This leads to more ritualistic behavior — the vicious cycle of OCD.
OCD often centers around certain themes — for example, an excessive fear of getting contaminated by germs. To ease your contamination fears, you may compulsively wash your hands until they’re sore and chapped.
*Fear of contamination or dirt
*Doubting and having difficulty tolerating uncertainty
*Needing things orderly and symmetrical
*Aggressive or horrific thoughts about losing control and harming yourself or others
*Unwanted thoughts, including aggression, or sexual or religious subjects
*Fear of being contaminated by touching objects others have touched
*Doubts that you’ve locked the door or turned off the stove
*Intense stress when objects aren’t orderly or facing a certain way
*Images of driving your car into a crowd of people
*Thoughts about shouting obscenities or acting inappropriately in public
*Unpleasant sexual images
*Avoidance of situations that can trigger obsessions, such as shaking hands
*Washing and cleaning
*Checking
*Counting
*Orderliness
*Following a strict routine
*Demanding reassurance
*Hand-washing until your skin becomes raw
*Checking doors repeatedly to make sure they’re locked
*Checking the stove repeatedly to make sure it’s off
*Counting in certain patterns
*Silently repeating a prayer, word or phrase
*Arranging your canned goods to face the same way
Michael J. Connelly is a respected figure in the mental health community of Pittsburgh, PA,
specializing as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with a deep focus on treating OCD.
His educational background, coupled with years of experience, equips him to offer
compassionate, effective counseling.
Beyond his credentials, Michael’s journey into mental health is fueled by a sincere desire
to understand human behavior and to facilitate healing through evidence-based practices. His
empathetic approach has touched many lives, guiding clients towards understanding and
managing their symptoms
A distinct trait of Michael is his commitment to staying abreast with the latest research in
psychology and mental health. This dedication ensures his methods are not only grounded in
experience but are also informed by the most current insights in the field of OCD and
anxiety disorders.
Embarking on a counseling journey with Michael J. Connelly at Positive Pathways Counseling is your first step towards embracing change and fostering personal growth. By understanding his approach and expertise, you’re better equipped to make the most out of your counseling sessions. Remember, taking that first step is a sign of strength, and with the right support, a positive pathway lies ahead.
Taking the first step towards counseling with Michael J. Connelly is straightforward. You can
reach out via phone or email to set up your initial appointment. During this session,
Michael will gather information about your history and discuss your current needs and goals.
It’s recommended to prepare any questions or concerns you may have, as this is a great
opportunity to see how Michael’s therapeutic style aligns with your preferences.
Remember, the goal of the first appointment is not only for Michael to learn about you but
also for you to feel comfortable and informed about the counseling process.
