Self-Help OCD Books from an OCD Therapist
Updated: September 4, 2024There are a lot of books that you can buy to better understand OCD (or intrusive thoughts and rituals). You will want to ensure that you are buying one that has an exposure and response prevention framework or ERP (also known as EX-RP).
Here are some highly recommended self-help books for people struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Self-Help OCD Books
“Getting Over OCD, Second Edition: A 10-Step Workbook for Taking Your Life Back” (Abramowitz, 2018). This is a personal favourite and has helped a lot of our clients overcome OCD! We suggest skipping the chapters on thinking skills as these tend to be used more as rituals than not. This book includes lots of examples and worksheets that can help you better understand your symptoms.
"The OCD Workbook: Your Guide to Breaking Free from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder" by Bruce M. Hyman and Cherlene Pedrick RN. This workbook offers practical techniques for managing OCD, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP). It includes worksheets and exercises to help you apply CBT strategies to your own life.
"Brain Lock: Free Yourself from Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior" by Jeffrey M. Schwartz. This book provides a four-step self-treatment program for anyone with OCD. It offers practical strategies for retraining the brain to break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.
"Freedom from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Personalized Recovery Program for Living with Uncertainty" by Jonathan Grayson. This book provides a comprehensive, personalized approach to OCD recovery. It offers practical strategies for managing anxiety and OCD symptoms, including exposure and response prevention (ERP).
"Overcoming Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts: A CBT-Based Guide to Getting Over Frightening, Obsessive, or Disturbing Thoughts" by Sally Winston and Martin Seif. This book offers practical strategies for managing intrusive thoughts, a common symptom of OCD. It includes cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques for managing anxiety and changing thought patterns.
"The Imp of the Mind: Exploring the Silent Epidemic of Obsessive Bad Thoughts" by Lee Baer. This book offers a unique perspective on OCD, exploring the role of intrusive thoughts and how they contribute to anxiety and compulsive behaviours. It provides practical strategies for managing intrusive thoughts and breaking the cycle of OCD.
“Treating Your OCD with Exposure and Response Prevention, Second Edition” by Edna Foa and Tracey Lichner. This is one of the first books that I read when learning ERP and it is the main book that I use with clients. I think it would be a great choice if your OCD presents a common theme like contamination or checking. You may want to find a qualified OCD therapist if you want to use this book.
These books can be helpful resources for people struggling with OCD, but it's important to note that they are not a substitute for professional treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing moderate to severe OCD symptoms, you should seek help from a qualified mental health professional who specializes in OCD treatment. Learn about our ERP for OCD and therapists.
How to Overcome OCD? Source: Psych Hub
How to Find Help if You Have OCD
If you live in Ontario and want to start OCD Treatment (ERP or EX/RP) and you would like to do so from the comfort of your home, we may be a good fit for you. We have a variety of experienced OCD therapists to choose from including registered social workers, psychologists and registered psychotherapists.
Meet our Clinical Directors, Celissa and Melissa. They are registered social workers in Ontario and will meet with you for your free consultation and match you with an OCD therapist.
Call your benefits to see if you are covered for private psychotherapy. Learn more about our fees.
We also wrote a blog post on: Could my thoughts be?
