Understanding and Treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Cognitive Behavioral Approach 1st edition

Publisher Marketing: Among the most prevalent and personally devastating psychological disorders the development of a cognitive approach to obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) has transformed our understanding and treatment of it. In this highly practical and accessible book, Jonathan Abramowitz presents a model of OCD grounded in the most up-to-date research that incorporates both cognitive and behavioral processes. He then offers a step-by-step guide to psychological treatment that integrates psychoeducation, cognitive techniques, and behavioral therapy (exposure and response prevention). Unlike other manuals for the treatment of OCD, this book teaches the reader how to tailor the choice of techniques and delivery modes for individuals presenting with a wide range of specific OCD symptoms, such as contamination fears and cleaning rituals, fears of harm and compulsive checking, symmetry and ordering, and severe obsessions with mental rituals. The techniques are illustrated with numerous case examples; clinical forms and handouts are provided for use with patients. A final chapter suggests strategies for overcoming common obstacles in treatment.

Contributor Bio:  Abramowitz, Jonathan S Jonathan S. Abramowitz, PhD, ABPP is Associate Professor and Associate Chair of the Department of Psychology, and Research Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill. He is also Founder and Director of the UNC Anxiety and Stress Disorders Clinic. Dr. Abramowitz is a North Carolina Licensed Psychologist and he holds a Diplomate in Behavioral Psychology from the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). He conducts research on obsessive-compulsive disorder and other anxiety disorders and has published 10 books and over 100 peer-reviewed research articles and book chapters on these topics. He currently serves as Associate Editor of the journals Behaviour Research and Therapy and Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, and serves on the Editorial Boards of several other scientific journals.