Psychologists’ experiences of patients with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

Abstract

This study focuses on the experiences of psychologists treating OCD patients who were diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Participants included four qualified psychologists of both sexes. Individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom to collect data. The data from the transcriptions of the participants were analysed employing Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. From this analysis, five major themes emerged which were discussed in the light of the literature review: The Essence of OCD; The Suffering of OCD Patients; Shame And Stigma; The Good, The Bad And Learning From The Bad; and Different Types Of Treatment. The main findings of this study revealed that the psychologist's experience differs depending on the patients' level of insight into their OCD. There were some successful therapeutic approaches among those challenging encounters. However, treating an OCD patient is a lengthy process that can be fraught with emotions. This sheds light on the importance of supervisory support and continuing professional development of psychologists treating patients with OCD.