What Is OCD in Children?

OCD is a mental health condition made up of two parts:

• Obsessions – unwanted, repetitive thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress

• Compulsions – actions or mental rituals a child feels they must do to reduce anxiety or prevent harm

Common OCD symptoms in kids and teens include:

• Fears about germs, contamination, or illness

• Worrying about harm coming to themselves or others

• Needing things to feel “just right” or symmetrical

• Repeated checking (locks, homework, mistakes)

• Counting, tapping, or repeating words or phrases

• Excessive reassurance-seeking (“Are you sure I’m okay?” “Did I hurt someone?” etc.)

While occasional worries or habits are normal, OCD in kids becomes a problem when it takes up a lot of time, causes distress, or interferes with school, friendships, or family life.

Our OCD Treatment Approach for Kids & Teens

At Raising Brave Kids, our therapists are trained in evidence-based OCD therapy for children and adolescents. Our work focuses on breaking the OCD cycle so kids can spend less time stuck in rituals and more time living life.

What Is ERP Therapy for OCD?

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold standard for OCD treatment in children. ERP helps kids gradually face their fears (exposure) while resisting the urge to do compulsions (response prevention).

For example:

• A child with contamination fears might practice touch a doorknob without immediately washing their hands.

• A teen with perfectionism OCD might send a text without re-reading it multiple times.

Over time, their brain learns that anxiety naturally decreases without rituals—and that they can handle discomfort with support and practice. You can read more about ERP and CBT on our Anxiety & OCD Treatment page.

Supporting the Whole Child

Our therapy for kids and teens with OCD goes beyond ERP to address overall well-being:

• CBT for OCD in Children: Helps kids challenge unhelpful thoughts, build flexibility, and problem-solve.

• Mindfulness & Calming Skills: Reduces the physical symptoms of anxiety and builds self-regulation.

• Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach: Many children with OCD also experience ADHD, Autism, or other forms of neurodivergence. We adapt strategies to match your child’s learning style, sensory needs, and pace so therapy feels safe, respectful, and effective.

• Self-Compassion & Resilience: Encourages children to see progress as a series of brave steps—not perfection.

Parent Involvement in OCD Therapy

Parents play a key role in recovery. We teach families how to support their child without accidentally reinforcing OCD behaviors. Our Raising Brave Parent Group gives caregivers practical tools and peer support to help kids maintain progress.

For older kids and teens, we also partner with teachers and schools to create accommodations that support success in the classroom while keeping therapy goals on track. Learn more about our Parent Consultation Services.

Why Early OCD Intervention Matters

Research shows that early treatment for OCD in children leads to better outcomes. Left untreated, OCD can grow stronger, causing more anxiety, avoidance, and isolation. Early intervention gives kids the tools to face fears, reduce compulsions, and return to the activities and relationships that matter most.

Take the First Step Toward Freedom from OCD

At Raising Brave Kids, we believe no child is defined by their OCD. With the right tools and support, children and teens can learn to manage anxiety, reduce rituals, and live life on their own terms.

We offer child and teen OCD therapy in-person at our NW Portland office and online for families across Oregon and California. Whether you’re looking for specialized child therapy or practical parent support our team is here to help.

Contact us today or schedule a free 15 min consultation