Types of OCD | Understanding the Different OCD Subtypes
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects people in many different ways. While OCD has common features — intrusive thoughts, fears, and compulsions — it can appear in different patterns or themes, often called subtypes.
At OCD Clinic Sydney, we specialise in providing effective treatment for all OCD subtypes, using evidence-based therapies like ERP and CBT.
If you recognise yourself in any of the types of OCD below, you’re not alone — and effective treatment is available.
What Are the Different Types of OCD?
While OCD can look different for everyone, these are some of the most common subtypes:
1
Contamination OCD
Fear of germs, illness, or contamination often leading to excessive cleaning, handwashing, or avoidance behaviours.
2
Harm OCD
Intrusive fears about harming yourself or others, even when you would never act on these thoughts. May lead to compulsive checking or avoidance.
3
Relationship OCD (ROCD)
Persistent doubts or fears about whether you love your partner enough, are in the “right” relationship, or if your partner is “good enough”.
4
Sexuality OCD
Intrusive doubts or fears about your sexual orientation, often causing compulsive checking or reassurance-seeking behaviours
5
Religious & Moral OCD (Scrupulosity)
Obsessive concerns about sinning, morality, or offending religious rules. Often leads to compulsive praying, confessing, or avoiding certain actions.
6
Checking OCD
Compulsive checking of locks, appliances, windows, or doors, driven by fears of harm, mistakes, or accidents.
7
Intrusive Thoughts OCD
Distressing, repetitive thoughts that may feel violent, taboo, or out of character, often accompanied by guilt or anxiety.
8
Existential OCD
Obsessions about life’s meaning, reality, or death, leading to compulsive thinking and seeking certainty about philosophical questions
9
Sensorimotor OCD
Heightened awareness of bodily sensations (like breathing, blinking, or swallowing), causing distress and compulsive monitoring.
10
Paedophile OCD (POCD)
Intrusive fears of acting inappropriately around children, despite no desire or intent to harm. Causes avoidance behaviours and compulsive checking.
11
Miscellaneous
Other subtypes include “Just Right” OCD, Hit-and-Run OCD, and many more.
Why Understanding OCD Subtypes Matters
While OCD themes differ, they all share the same underlying cycle:
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Intrusive thoughts or fears → cause anxiety
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Compulsions or avoidance → temporarily relieve anxiety
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The cycle repeats
Understanding your OCD subtype helps us tailor ERP and CBT therapy to target your specific triggers while addressing the root cause.
Treatment for All Types of OCD
At OCD Clinic Sydney, we provide therapy for all OCD subtypes using evidence-based treatments:
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Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP): Facing fears safely, reducing compulsions
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Building new coping strategies and changing thought patterns
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Online OCD Therapy Australia-Wide: Secure telehealth sessions available
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Get Started With OCD Therapy Today
FAQs About OCD Subtypes
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