Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counselling in Hertford

Photo of Dr Ashley-John Brewer - OCD & Anxiety Specialist - Dr Ashley-John Brewer, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
OCD & Anxiety Specialist - Dr Ashley-John Brewer
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I'm a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in high-quality, evidence-based therapy for adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, and related difficulties.
I now run my own practice, The OCD Doctor, dedicated to providing expert and personalised support for a range of anxiety and obsessional challenges. My approach blends proven techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (including Exposure and Response Prevention), Compassion-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Person-Centred Therapy.
I'm a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in high-quality, evidence-based therapy for adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, and related difficulties.
I now run my own practice, The OCD Doctor, dedicated to providing expert and personalised support for a range of anxiety and obsessional challenges. My approach blends proven techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (including Exposure and Response Prevention), Compassion-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Person-Centred Therapy.
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Photo of Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I primarily work with people struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and OCD, but also enjoy supporting people with panic, social anxiety, phobia and stress.
I am a compassionate, authentic clinical psychologist with a wealth of knowledge about all things mental health. I strive to create a safe space to nurture understanding, generate acceptance, and empower change through evidence based psychological services. I only offer therapy that has a strong evidence base and that which is recommended by NICE Guidelines. This means you have access to the best psychological interventions. I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
I primarily work with people struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and OCD, but also enjoy supporting people with panic, social anxiety, phobia and stress.
I am a compassionate, authentic clinical psychologist with a wealth of knowledge about all things mental health. I strive to create a safe space to nurture understanding, generate acceptance, and empower change through evidence based psychological services. I only offer therapy that has a strong evidence base and that which is recommended by NICE Guidelines. This means you have access to the best psychological interventions. I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
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Photo of Sandra Ross-Cameron, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Sandra Ross-Cameron
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Serves Area
Phobias, OCD, relationships, complex issues.
I am a CBT accredited therapist with the BABCP. I have worked for 15yrs with clients from all walks of life, with different problems and issues. I am also experienced with clients with complex issues and long term health conditions. For the last 12yrs also, specialising in ACT therapy, which is a third wave CBT approach.
Phobias, OCD, relationships, complex issues.
I am a CBT accredited therapist with the BABCP. I have worked for 15yrs with clients from all walks of life, with different problems and issues. I am also experienced with clients with complex issues and long term health conditions. For the last 12yrs also, specialising in ACT therapy, which is a third wave CBT approach.
01279 969925 View 01279 969925
Photo of Stephen Anderson, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Stephen Anderson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Serves Area
I am an Accredited CBT therapist, EMDR therapist and Couples Therapist specialising in Trauma, OCD and Anxiety.
The approaches I use include CBT, which takes a problem-solving approach to breaking unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours (e.g. over-thinking, worrying excessively) and using proven methods to reduce feelings of anxiety and low mood; whilst EMDR uses specific techniques to free the mind and body of distressing reactions to past traumatic memories.
I am an Accredited CBT therapist, EMDR therapist and Couples Therapist specialising in Trauma, OCD and Anxiety.
The approaches I use include CBT, which takes a problem-solving approach to breaking unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours (e.g. over-thinking, worrying excessively) and using proven methods to reduce feelings of anxiety and low mood; whilst EMDR uses specific techniques to free the mind and body of distressing reactions to past traumatic memories.
01438 901803 View 01438 901803
Photo of Dr Megan Reay, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Megan Reay
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to support young people who may be struggling with a range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, phobias or panic attacks.
I provide a compassionate and collaborative space for young people who are struggling. I offer face to face or virtual support to clients. The main therapeutic models I use are: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy and Systemic Family Therapy. I also offer specialist CBT supervision to professionals.
I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to support young people who may be struggling with a range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, phobias or panic attacks.
I provide a compassionate and collaborative space for young people who are struggling. I offer face to face or virtual support to clients. The main therapeutic models I use are: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy and Systemic Family Therapy. I also offer specialist CBT supervision to professionals.
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Photo of Ieva Watson, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Ieva Watson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
I am a CBT and Psychodynamic Psychotherapist and I am passionate about supporting people so that no one has to face difficulties alone. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and personalised, taking into consideration each individual's unique needs and circumstances, including neurodiversity such as autism. My goal in therapy is to help clients identify their challenges and support them in exploring and addressing these issues with compassion. I pride on being non-judgemental and accepting of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.
I am a CBT and Psychodynamic Psychotherapist and I am passionate about supporting people so that no one has to face difficulties alone. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and personalised, taking into consideration each individual's unique needs and circumstances, including neurodiversity such as autism. My goal in therapy is to help clients identify their challenges and support them in exploring and addressing these issues with compassion. I pride on being non-judgemental and accepting of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.
01992 932197 View 01992 932197
Photo of Claire Crispin - Claire Crispin - Beyond CBT, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Claire Crispin - Beyond CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
2 Endorsed
Hertford SG13
Feeling down lately and nothing seems to lift your spirits? Perhaps your anxiety, worrying and over-thinking is stopping you from moving forward? - Maybe you're overwhelmed by negative thoughts or intense emotions. Are your panic attacks preventing you from going to certain places or doing certain activities? Are you plagued by intrusive & distressing thoughts? Any, or all, of the above could be making you feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead?
Feeling down lately and nothing seems to lift your spirits? Perhaps your anxiety, worrying and over-thinking is stopping you from moving forward? - Maybe you're overwhelmed by negative thoughts or intense emotions. Are your panic attacks preventing you from going to certain places or doing certain activities? Are you plagued by intrusive & distressing thoughts? Any, or all, of the above could be making you feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead?
01920 458837 View 01920 458837
Photo of Louise Southwell, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Louise Southwell
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Hertford SG14
Do you find yourself constantly worrying, caught in a cycle of overthinking, or feeling like life is passing you by? Are you often feelings stuck in "what if" thoughts, or struggling with intrusive and negative thoughts that seem impossible to escape? Maybe you’re feeling low, unmotivated, or questioning your self-worth—wondering why it’s so hard to enjoy the things that once brought you happiness, or why you often find yourself not feeling present in the moment. Maybe leading to avoidance of certain work and social situations. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone (even if it feels that way).
Do you find yourself constantly worrying, caught in a cycle of overthinking, or feeling like life is passing you by? Are you often feelings stuck in "what if" thoughts, or struggling with intrusive and negative thoughts that seem impossible to escape? Maybe you’re feeling low, unmotivated, or questioning your self-worth—wondering why it’s so hard to enjoy the things that once brought you happiness, or why you often find yourself not feeling present in the moment. Maybe leading to avoidance of certain work and social situations. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone (even if it feels that way).
01279 598947 View 01279 598947
Photo of Hayley Grilli - Chapters Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Chapters Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Hertford SG14
I have worked predominantly with clients with a EUPD (BPD) diagnosis helping them to identify where their behaviours and thought patterns developed and to work on ways of coping with the crippling overwhelm that comes with BPD, to get to a place that feels like they have regained control. I have also worked extensively with people coming out of domestic abuse or prolonged exposure to relationships with narcissistic controlling & coercive people. We work together, in a non directive way, to identify patterns of behaviour and develop new pathways to break free from people pleasing and to find their voice.
I have worked predominantly with clients with a EUPD (BPD) diagnosis helping them to identify where their behaviours and thought patterns developed and to work on ways of coping with the crippling overwhelm that comes with BPD, to get to a place that feels like they have regained control. I have also worked extensively with people coming out of domestic abuse or prolonged exposure to relationships with narcissistic controlling & coercive people. We work together, in a non directive way, to identify patterns of behaviour and develop new pathways to break free from people pleasing and to find their voice.
01707 241341 View 01707 241341
Photo of Olivia Kellett, Counsellor, MBACP
Olivia Kellett
Counsellor, MBACP
Hertford SG14
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a BACP registered counsellor, mindfulness teacher and a clinical hypnotherapist. This background enables me to use an Integrative Counselling approach to help my clients to achieve their therapy goals. Sessions with me are always client based and very flexible. I aim to bring a note of levity to everything I do, including the work with my clients. My current work with the organisation Headspace involves engaging with young adults and helping them to overcome mental health issues, as well as various types of destructive behaviours, addictions, stress, self sabotage and relationship problems.
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a BACP registered counsellor, mindfulness teacher and a clinical hypnotherapist. This background enables me to use an Integrative Counselling approach to help my clients to achieve their therapy goals. Sessions with me are always client based and very flexible. I aim to bring a note of levity to everything I do, including the work with my clients. My current work with the organisation Headspace involves engaging with young adults and helping them to overcome mental health issues, as well as various types of destructive behaviours, addictions, stress, self sabotage and relationship problems.
0121 312 9957 View 0121 312 9957
Photo of Clare Green, Counsellor, MBACP
Clare Green
Counsellor, MBACP
Hertford SG13
My name is Clare and I am a fully qualified psychotherapist. My prior interest with healing & alternative therapies led me to persue studies in counselling and psychotherapy. I am a naturally warm, compassionate, kind & relatable person believing everyone has the right to live a fulfilled life with meaningful relationships. I believe that no matter the difficulties we may have experienced in the past, we all have the capacity to heal. I hold a Post Graduate Diploma in Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapy. I have also completed training in DBT, Schema Therapy, Mindfulness & Meditation and adopt a holistic approach in my practice.
My name is Clare and I am a fully qualified psychotherapist. My prior interest with healing & alternative therapies led me to persue studies in counselling and psychotherapy. I am a naturally warm, compassionate, kind & relatable person believing everyone has the right to live a fulfilled life with meaningful relationships. I believe that no matter the difficulties we may have experienced in the past, we all have the capacity to heal. I hold a Post Graduate Diploma in Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapy. I have also completed training in DBT, Schema Therapy, Mindfulness & Meditation and adopt a holistic approach in my practice.
01920 452587 x079008 View 01920 452587 x079008
Photo of Laura Smith, Counsellor, MBACP
Laura Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Hertford SG14
Hello, I'm Laura. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who will listen to your concerns with sensitivity and without judgement. I offer a confidential, supportive environment where you can freely express and 'unburden' yourself. Somewhere you will feel truly 'heard'. I work relationally, which means I believe that the ability to build a secure and trusting therapeutic relationship with you will form the foundation of our work together.
Hello, I'm Laura. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who will listen to your concerns with sensitivity and without judgement. I offer a confidential, supportive environment where you can freely express and 'unburden' yourself. Somewhere you will feel truly 'heard'. I work relationally, which means I believe that the ability to build a secure and trusting therapeutic relationship with you will form the foundation of our work together.
01707 954035 View 01707 954035
Photo of Lisa Carr, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Carr
Counsellor, MBACP
Hertford SG13
If you find you have become overwhelmed by feelings such as anxiety, anger or sadness I offer a safe and supportive space to unpack those emotions and gain a better awareness of your own processes. We can work together to understand better what is happening in your life today and perhaps how previous events and patterns may be affecting you. I work with a range of emotional and relationship issues including depression, anxiety, bereavement, loss, abuse, life transitions, isolation and low self-esteem. I am currently completing a qualification in neuro-affirmative practice to better support clients with ADHD and autism.
If you find you have become overwhelmed by feelings such as anxiety, anger or sadness I offer a safe and supportive space to unpack those emotions and gain a better awareness of your own processes. We can work together to understand better what is happening in your life today and perhaps how previous events and patterns may be affecting you. I work with a range of emotional and relationship issues including depression, anxiety, bereavement, loss, abuse, life transitions, isolation and low self-esteem. I am currently completing a qualification in neuro-affirmative practice to better support clients with ADHD and autism.
01992 940637 View 01992 940637
Photo of Daniel Roe - Daniel Roe - Couples CBT, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Daniel Roe - Couples CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
6 Endorsed
Hertford SG13
Has your relationship hit a sticking point? Are you struggling to communicate with your partner or arguing more frequently? Maybe you have difficulty trusting following infidelity. You're just not connecting or enjoying each other like you used to? No matter what the trigger point for your difficulties we can work together to improve your communication, rebuild trust, increase quality time, or get your physical intimacy back on track. Or you might be an indiviudal suffering from anxiety and low self-confidence. Constantly worrying, on edge, or engaging in compulsive behaviour.
Has your relationship hit a sticking point? Are you struggling to communicate with your partner or arguing more frequently? Maybe you have difficulty trusting following infidelity. You're just not connecting or enjoying each other like you used to? No matter what the trigger point for your difficulties we can work together to improve your communication, rebuild trust, increase quality time, or get your physical intimacy back on track. Or you might be an indiviudal suffering from anxiety and low self-confidence. Constantly worrying, on edge, or engaging in compulsive behaviour.
07427 526723 View 07427 526723
Photo of Jacquie Chandler, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Jacquie Chandler
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Hertford SG14
Entering therapy can be anxiety provoking in itself thus I believe a positive therapeutic relationship is essential in ensuring clients feel comfortable to talk about whats happening for them. I have a calm, non-judgemental approach, working at the clients pace.
Entering therapy can be anxiety provoking in itself thus I believe a positive therapeutic relationship is essential in ensuring clients feel comfortable to talk about whats happening for them. I have a calm, non-judgemental approach, working at the clients pace.
01992 351481 View 01992 351481
Photo of Emmalene Johnson, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Emmalene Johnson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Hertford SG14
Therapist with 20 years experience in the NHS (camhs and adult) with expertise in family, couple and child/individual care across the lifespan. I currently hold a teaching position in a national training institution for trainee therapists. I am a compassionate therapist able to help and support you through emotional/relational and mental health difficulties. I offer Couple therapy , individual and Family therapy. Trained in several modalities including EMDR/trauma and child focused attachment therapy.
Therapist with 20 years experience in the NHS (camhs and adult) with expertise in family, couple and child/individual care across the lifespan. I currently hold a teaching position in a national training institution for trainee therapists. I am a compassionate therapist able to help and support you through emotional/relational and mental health difficulties. I offer Couple therapy , individual and Family therapy. Trained in several modalities including EMDR/trauma and child focused attachment therapy.
01920 455458 View 01920 455458
Photo of Karen Batchelor, Counsellor, MBACP
Karen Batchelor
Counsellor, MBACP
Hertford SG14
As we continue to live our lives day after day sometimes this journey can begin to feel like an up hill climb. I am here to listen to any worries, concerns or difficulties you may be experiencing. Are you struggling to cope with a loss, whether it be a bereavement, a relationship, a job or just feeling that your life is passing you by and it is not working out how you had hoped. Sometimes we may find it hard to talk to or confide in our friends and loved ones, worried about upsetting them and not wanting to burden them or perhaps you fear being judged or may think that your problems are not as bad as theirs.
As we continue to live our lives day after day sometimes this journey can begin to feel like an up hill climb. I am here to listen to any worries, concerns or difficulties you may be experiencing. Are you struggling to cope with a loss, whether it be a bereavement, a relationship, a job or just feeling that your life is passing you by and it is not working out how you had hoped. Sometimes we may find it hard to talk to or confide in our friends and loved ones, worried about upsetting them and not wanting to burden them or perhaps you fear being judged or may think that your problems are not as bad as theirs.
01707 959061 View 01707 959061
Photo of Daren Messenger, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Daren Messenger
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Hertford SG14
How do you choose a therapist? Experience and training are important: I have been practising for over 26 years and completed 3 distinct degree level qualifications; psychotherapy, CBT and mindfulness (Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy)' Also EMDR. WE will discuss which therapy is right for you. Sessions will gently enquire of emotion, regulation, body sense, behaviours in difficult situations, gradually facilitating self awareness and awareness of situations. Exploring brings understanding. Tis will involve direction from me in this. Professional bodies: UKCP for psychotherapy and psychotherapeutic counselling BABCP for CBT.
How do you choose a therapist? Experience and training are important: I have been practising for over 26 years and completed 3 distinct degree level qualifications; psychotherapy, CBT and mindfulness (Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy)' Also EMDR. WE will discuss which therapy is right for you. Sessions will gently enquire of emotion, regulation, body sense, behaviours in difficult situations, gradually facilitating self awareness and awareness of situations. Exploring brings understanding. Tis will involve direction from me in this. Professional bodies: UKCP for psychotherapy and psychotherapeutic counselling BABCP for CBT.
07866 372021 View 07866 372021
Photo of Michael Garnham, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Michael Garnham
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Michael, a professionally trained and qualified BACP accredited therapist offering therap services covering a range of issues to both adults and young people.I have a unique perspective as to the importance of individualised treatment programmes du to my own past mental health struggles.I am an integrative psychotherapist who focuses on establishing treatment modalities to suit the individual and their needs.
I’m Michael, a professionally trained and qualified BACP accredited therapist offering therap services covering a range of issues to both adults and young people.I have a unique perspective as to the importance of individualised treatment programmes du to my own past mental health struggles.I am an integrative psychotherapist who focuses on establishing treatment modalities to suit the individual and their needs.
01279 594717 View 01279 594717
Photo of Amy Caffrey Mbacp, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Amy Caffrey Mbacp
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
Are you looking for some support but not sure where to turn? I believe talking is a really powerful thing and am passionate about empowering you to become your own therapist by helping you find coping strategies that are tailored and work for you. These coping strategies can help you in any situation life brings. Talking to a therapist can be quite daunting. However, I truly believe talking through a problem can really help. I can help you to identify and understand issues you are struggling with and together we can come up with a plan on how to help you overcome these.kin
Are you looking for some support but not sure where to turn? I believe talking is a really powerful thing and am passionate about empowering you to become your own therapist by helping you find coping strategies that are tailored and work for you. These coping strategies can help you in any situation life brings. Talking to a therapist can be quite daunting. However, I truly believe talking through a problem can really help. I can help you to identify and understand issues you are struggling with and together we can come up with a plan on how to help you overcome these.kin
01875 444628 View 01875 444628
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counsellors

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, and sertraline, among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.