OCD Therapy in Calgary
Supporting Children, Teens, and Families Through Cycles of Fear and Uncertainty
Intrusive thoughts, repetitive checking, or mental rituals can make everyday life feel exhausting — especially for children and teens who don’t yet have the words to explain what’s happening.
At Ten Child Psychology, we provide OCD therapy in Calgary for children, teens, and parents, helping families understand obsessive-compulsive patterns with care, not judgment. Therapy focuses on reducing fear’s grip, building flexibility, and helping young people respond to anxiety rather than obey it.
OCD therapy is not about eliminating thoughts.
It’s about changing the relationship with them — gently, gradually, and with support.
Understanding OCD in Children and Teens
When Worry Becomes a Cycle
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves cycles of unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive actions or mental rituals (compulsions). These behaviours temporarily reduce anxiety, but over time they strengthen fear and uncertainty.
For children and teens, OCD can be confusing and frightening — especially when thoughts feel “wrong,” scary, or shameful.
Therapy helps break this cycle with compassion, teaching young people how to tolerate uncertainty and regain trust in themselves.
Common signs of OCD in children and teens include:
Repetitive checking, counting, or cleaning rituals
Fear of contamination, harm, or “bad” thoughts
Strong need for symmetry, order, or reassurance
Avoidance of specific objects, people, or situations
Excessive self-doubt, guilt, or fear of making mistakes
Mental rituals, such as repeating phrases or reviewing events
OCD often overlaps with anxiety. Families may also explore Anxiety Therapy in Calgary for related support.
With compassion comes care — support you can count on.
Our Approach to OCD Therapy
OCD therapy at Ten Child Psychology is evidence-based, developmentally informed, and paced with care. We focus on helping children and teens feel safe while learning new ways to respond to fear.
Our psychologists may integrate:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Helping young people understand intrusive thoughts and reduce self-blame.Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
Gradually facing fears while learning not to rely on compulsions, at a pace that feels manageable.Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Building mindfulness, emotional flexibility, and values-based choices.Solution-Focused Strategies
Strengthening confidence through small, achievable steps.Creative and Play-Based Approaches
Especially helpful for younger children who express fears through imagination and behaviour.
→ Learn more about Child Therapy in Calgary and Teen Therapy in Calgary to see how OCD treatment is adapted by age.
Each therapy plan is tailored to age, developmental stage, and comfort level — blending structure with warmth so progress feels possible, not overwhelming.
With creativity comes calm — new pathways emerge.
What Children and Teens Learn in OCD Therapy
Through guided practice, reflection, and gentle exposure, children and teens learn skills that reduce fear’s influence over time.
They learn to:
Recognize and label intrusive thoughts
Understand how compulsions and reassurance strengthen anxiety
Reduce ritual behaviours gradually and safely
Build tolerance for uncertainty
Develop mindfulness and emotional flexibility
Strengthen confidence and self-compassion
Therapy builds trust — in their thoughts, their bodies, and their ability to handle the unknown.
With care comes capacity. Strong roots and brighter skies.
OCD in Children and Teens
Externalizing the “Worry Voice”
OCD often begins in childhood or adolescence. Children may not be able to explain their fears clearly, but they feel the distress deeply.
You might notice:
Repetitive rituals (handwashing, checking doors, arranging objects)
Persistent fears of germs, harm, or “bad luck”
Difficulty sleeping alone or separating from caregivers
Frequent reassurance seeking (“Are you sure I didn’t hurt someone?”)
Therapy helps children and teens externalize OCD — often described as the “worry voice” — so they can challenge it with curiosity, courage, and support rather than fear.
Parents are involved to ensure strategies carry into daily life without reinforcing compulsions.
With curiosity comes confidence — clear skies ahead.
Parent and Family Collaboration
Supporting Progress at Home
OCD affects the whole family system. Reassurance, routines, and accommodations — even when well-intended — can unintentionally strengthen OCD patterns.
That’s why parent collaboration is a core part of OCD therapy at Ten Child Psychology.
Parent sessions may include:
Education about OCD cycles and reassurance loops
Coaching on responding with empathy without reinforcing rituals
Building consistent, supportive home routines
Managing caregiver stress and compassion fatigue
When parents feel informed and supported, children feel safer taking brave steps forward.
Collaboration builds bridges. Bridges create breakthroughs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
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CBT with ERP is the gold-standard treatment for OCD. We use these approaches in a gentle, age-appropriate way.
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Yes. We specialize in supporting OCD across childhood and adolescence.
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Many families notice progress within several weeks, especially with consistent practice and parent involvement.
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Yes. We offer secure virtual sessions for families across Alberta.
Why Families Choose Ten for OCD Therapy in Calgary
Boutique, child- and family-focused clinic in Bridgeland / East Calgary
Psychologists trained in CBT, ACT, and ERP
Developmentally appropriate care for children and teens
Strength-based, compassionate approach
In-person sessions in East Calgary and secure online therapy across Alberta
No waitlist — begin when you’re ready
Beyond Ten. Into Possibility.
Ten Child Psychology
172 9 St NE, Calgary AB T2E 4H2
📞 403-727-7473
Our Bridgeland clinic was designed for clarity and calm — quiet spaces, warm light, and room to breathe. We offer a sensory-aware environment that supports comfort for children and adults alike.
Clients often say the space itself feels grounding — a calm contrast to the noise of intrusive thoughts.
Located near Inglewood, Riverbend, Crescent Heights, Tuxedo Park, Hillhurst, Quarry Park, Douglasdale, Cranston, Auburn Bay, Mahogany, and Seton.
