Myths and Realities
Myth 1
CBT explains my problem in an overly simplistic manner by showing that it is maintained by my thoughts and behaviour. I believe the causes of my OCD are more complex and harder to explain.
Response
People suffering from OCD often have difficulty separating it from the rest of their personality. For them, everything that they are (their values, desires, skills and faults) and do (thoughts and actions) is influenced by the OCD. However, it has been clearly demonstrated that OCD is a behaviour (or habit) problem, not a personality problem.
The techniques taught by the therapist affect your behaviour, not your personality. When you are rid of OCD, it’s likely that you won’t have any more major problems. It’s a fact that the techniques derived from CBT have an immediate effect on behaviour. They are simple, easy-to-use tools.
Myth 2
CBT is an overly demanding form of therapy because it progresses very quickly, throwing you in at the deep end.
Response
CBT is a therapy which progresses at your own rhythm, moving forward one step at time. At the start of therapy, you will likely have no difficulty completing the recommended exercises. The difficulty level of the exercises will increase gradually. You are always free to decide whether you’re ready for a particular exercise or not. As the therapy goes on, you will feel capable of facing more difficult situations. Exercises that seemed impossible at the start of therapy will become achievable, for the simple reason that you will have more self-confidence.
Myth 3
CBT is a therapy that only affects superficial symptoms. It does not directly address the true causes of my problem. Even if I get rid of the symptoms, others will appear in their place.
Response
CBT is a therapy that acts on the thoughts and behaviour that maintain OCD. There is currently no scientific research demonstrating that eliminated symptoms are replaced by new ones.
Myth 4
CBT treats you like an object, without considering you as an individual.
Response
CBT is a therapy which is adapted to your needs. You will be treated as unique. You won’t be treated as an object, but rather as a whole human being. The therapeutic plan will be developed based on your symptoms and your actual experience. There are as many different therapy approaches as there are people on Earth!
Myth 5
As soon as I feel that I’ve succeeded and that I’m better, I become anxious and I have the impression that my situation is going to deteriorate, so I’ll never make any progress with CBT.
Response
People with OCD tend to become discouraged rapidly. The therapy will help you change your way of thinking.
Myth 6
The therapist will teach me techniques that will help me tolerate my anxiety without necessary healing me completely.
Response
Therapy will help you regain control over your anxiety. With motivation and persistence, it’s possible to be completely healed.
Myth 7
At the moment, I have very little control over my compulsions. How can CBT help me better control my behaviour?
Response
Much of your behaviour occurs automatically and without your consent. CBT will help you become aware of your problematic behaviour (that which maintains the problem) and then eliminate it.
Myth 8
Once the therapy is finished, it will be difficult for me to maintain my progress, because I will be on my own and not supervised by my therapist.
Response
CBT is a therapeutic approach that encourages your independence. There is no need to worry: even without supervision, the majority of people are able to apply the techniques learned during the therapy. Statistics show most people continue to improve after the therapy, which lasts for 20 weeks. However, if you feel it is necessary, it’s possible to extend the therapy by two meetings.