Supporting Children and Teens with OCD | Calgary Child Therapy
About 1 in 100 children experience OCD symptoms, making it more common than many parents realize. With early support and therapy, most kids learn powerful coping skills to calm their minds and reduce compulsive behaviors.
What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition where individuals experience persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and feel compelled to repeat certain actions (compulsions). For children and teens, OCD can be overwhelming, confusing, and exhausting. With the right understanding and support, however, they can learn to manage symptoms and build confidence.
OCD is generally made up of two parts:
Obsessions: Unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges. Common examples include fears of germs, worries about harm coming to themselves or others, or fears of doing something “wrong.”
Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or rituals done to reduce the anxiety caused by obsessions. These can include excessive handwashing, repeatedly checking doors or appliances, or performing routines until they feel “just right.”
It’s also important to know that OCD often co-occurs with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or eating disorders, which can make daily life even more challenging.
Signs Your Child or Teen May Be Struggling with OCD
Some possible signs of OCD include:
Repeating certain actions or rituals until they feel satisfied
Extreme distress if routines are interrupted
Avoiding people, places, or objects they believe are “contaminated”
Spending excessive time worrying about safety, mistakes, or harm
Struggling at school or withdrawing socially due to obsessions or compulsions
How Parents Can Support a Child or Teen with OCD
Start with open conversations: Approach your child gently, with curiosity and empathy. For example: “I notice you’re adjusting your socks a lot—it must feel really tiring. I wonder if that’s OCD making you feel you have to.”
Listen and reassure: Show your child you’re there for them. Validate their feelings and let them know they’re not alone.
Seek professional help: Consult with a pediatrician or child psychologist in Calgary if you’re concerned. Proper assessment helps identify OCD and create a treatment plan.
Stay connected: OCD can impact self-esteem and relationships. Maintaining strong family support is critical for resilience and recovery.
Treatment Options for OCD in Calgary
Treatment is tailored to each child but often includes evidence-based approaches such as:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps children challenge intrusive thoughts and reframe unhelpful patterns.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): Supports children in gradually facing fears while reducing compulsions.
Family Therapy: Provides parents with tools to support their child while reducing stress at home.
Professional support is key—early intervention can reduce symptoms and improve long-term outcomes.
Final Thoughts
OCD can feel overwhelming for children and teens, but with the right understanding, compassion, and professional support, it is highly manageable. Parents play a vital role in creating a safe, supportive environment where children can learn to manage symptoms and build confidence.
At Creative Sky Psychology in Calgary, we specialize in assessment and therapy for children and teens with OCD. Our strength-based, compassionate approach helps families navigate challenges together and build resilience for the future.
📍 Visit us: #5, 2005 37 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3E 3A5
📞 Call: 587-331-4464 ext. 1
✉️ Email: info@creativeskypsychology.com
🌐 Book an appointment online to support your child or teen with OCD today.
Looking for therapy for older teens, post-secondary students, or adults? Visit our sister clinic, NU Psychology in Calgary, where mental health support is available at every stage of life.
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Many children have routines, but OCD involves distressing, intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors that interfere with daily life. A Calgary child psychologist can provide clarity through assessment.
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OCD usually requires treatment. While symptoms may change over time, professional support such as CBT or exposure therapy is highly effective in helping children manage OCD.
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Stay patient, avoid criticism, and work with professionals. Providing reassurance, maintaining connection, and involving your teen in treatment decisions can make a big difference.
