OCD within the therapy room: An exploration of person-centred therapy
Authors
Madden, Luke
Issue Date
2026.13.01
Degree
Counselling and Psychotherapy - 10788/2210
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
Open Access
Abstract
This study sets out to explore the application of person-centred therapy (PCT) in addressing obsessive-compulsive disorder, a disorder that affects between 1-3% of the global population. OCD is characterised by core components including obsessions and compulsions that impair quality of life (QoL) including social functioning and a sense of wellbeing. OCD leads to distress and anxiety which reduces autonomy and creates a false sense of identity, whilst invoking feelings of guilt and shame. PCTs humanistic framework uses empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard to promote self-acceptance and autonomy. Examining OCD and its subtypes, this study finds that PCT counters the fragmented self-identity commonly reported in individuals with OCD, whilst fostering self-actualising tendencies.