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Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Children

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviours (compulsions) that an individual feels compelled to perform. 

In children, OCD can manifest uniquely, often influenced by developmental factors. Their unwanted thoughts are typically linked to their fears or worries, which may result in excessive behaviour to control or prevent the fear. 

Prevalence & Treatment Approach for Paediatric OCD​

Research indicates that approximately 1–3% of children are affected by OCD, with symptom onset typically occurring between the ages of 10 and 14. Notably, males often display symptoms at an earlier age and with greater severity than females.

Brave Little Heroes Psychology Hub provides diagnosis, assessment, and treatment for childhood OCD in Melbourne. The most common approach to treating paediatric OCD involves a specialised form of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). 

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Common Manifestations in Children

OCD symptoms in children can be categorised into obsessions (unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (excessive behaviours). 

Obsessions

Obsessions

  • Contamination Fears: An overwhelming fear of germs or dirt, leading to excessive washing or avoidance behaviours.
  • Harm-Related Thoughts: Intrusive fears about causing harm to oneself or others, even without intent.
  • Symmetry and Orderliness: A compelling need for objects to be arranged in a particular way or for actions to be performed symmetrically.
  • Other: other obsessive behaviours may occur driven by persistent, intrusive thoughts, such as fears of hurting loved ones, worries about bad things happening, or concerns about making mistakes.
Compulsions

Compulsions

  • Cleaning and Washing: Engaging in repetitive hand-washing or cleaning rituals to alleviate contamination fears.
  • Checking Behaviours: Repeatedly verifying that doors are locked, appliances are off, or homework is completed correctly.
  • Repetitive Actions: Performing specific actions, such as tapping or counting a specific number of times to prevent perceived negative outcomes.
  • Checking with mum and dad for reassurance: to reduce anxiety or confirm that nothing bad will happen

These symptoms can lead to significant distress, impacting a child’s academic performance, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Early identification and intervention are crucial, as untreated OCD can persist into adulthood, leading to chronic impairment.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Treatment

Brave Little Heroes Psychology Hub is dedicated to providing specialised, evidence-based interventions tailored to the unique needs of each child. Our multifaceted approach to childhood OCD treatment includes:

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

A specialised form of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) recognised as the gold standard for OCD treatment. ERP involves gradually exposing children to feared situations or thoughts without engaging in the associated compulsive behaviours, thereby reducing anxiety over time. This is done from a strengths-based, positive psychology perspective in a playful and engaging way.

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Beyond ERP, CBT helps children identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, fostering the development of healthier thinking patterns and effective coping strategies. This therapeutic approach is tailored to be age-appropriate, often incorporating play and creative activities to engage younger children.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

a values and strengths based approach that helps children develop psychological flexibility by learning to accept difficult thoughts and feelings rather than fighting them. Through playful, age-appropriate techniques, children are encouraged to connect with their values — what truly matters to them — and use these values to guide their actions. This approach empowers children to handle their OCD challenges more effectively while still pursuing meaningful and fulfilling experiences.

Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR)

Where obsessions have been triggered by a particularly distressing event, EMDR can help children process and reframe the distressing memories associated with their obsessions. By using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR aims to reduce the emotional intensity of these memories, helping children feel less burdened by their obsessive thoughts.

Mindfulness therapy

Mindfulness techniques help children become more aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment. By practicing staying present and observing their experiences calmly, children can reduce the power of obsessive thoughts and respond to them more effectively.

Family Involvement and Parent Coaching

Recognising the family’s pivotal role in a child’s progress, our OCD psychologist in Melbourne offers parent coaching sessions to equip caregivers with practical tools and strategies. This support enables parents to effectively manage accommodations, reinforce therapeutic techniques at home, and reduce family accommodation behaviours that may inadvertently maintain OCD symptoms.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

A specialised form of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) recognised as the gold standard for OCD treatment. ERP involves gradually exposing children to feared situations or thoughts without engaging in the associated compulsive behaviours, thereby reducing anxiety over time. This is done from a strengths-based, positive psychology perspective in a playful and engaging way.

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Beyond ERP, CBT helps children identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, fostering the development of healthier thinking patterns and effective coping strategies. This therapeutic approach is tailored to be age-appropriate, often incorporating play and creative activities to engage younger children.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

a values and strengths based approach that helps children develop psychological flexibility by learning to accept difficult thoughts and feelings rather than fighting them. Through playful, age-appropriate techniques, children are encouraged to connect with their values — what truly matters to them — and use these values to guide their actions. This approach empowers children to handle their OCD challenges more effectively while still pursuing meaningful and fulfilling experiences.

Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR)

Where obsessions have been triggered by a particularly distressing event, EMDR can help children process and reframe the distressing memories associated with their obsessions. By using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR aims to reduce the emotional intensity of these memories, helping children feel less burdened by their obsessive thoughts.

Mindfulness therapy

Mindfulness techniques help children become more aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment. By practicing staying present and observing their experiences calmly, children can reduce the power of obsessive thoughts and respond to them more effectively.

Family Involvement and Parent Coaching

Recognising the family’s pivotal role in a child’s progress, our OCD psychologist in Melbourne offers parent coaching sessions to equip caregivers with practical tools and strategies. This support enables parents to effectively manage accommodations, reinforce therapeutic techniques at home, and reduce family accommodation behaviours that may inadvertently maintain OCD symptoms.
Our compassionate and engaging approach empowers children to manage their OCD symptoms and regain control over their lives. By incorporating play and storytelling, we create a safe and enjoyable environment that encourages participation, reduces resistance, and makes therapy more effective. 

Empowering Children to Overcome Fears and Live Freely

We provide tailored support for each child, helping them embrace their inner bravery.

Contact Us Today!

At Brave Little Heroes Psychology Hub, we believe every child is on a journey to discover their unique superpowers.

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