Real Stories of Healing: How OCD Treatment Changed My Life

At The Anxiety Center, we are privileged to witness incredible stories of resilience and transformation from our patients. One of our recent success stories comes from a patient who bravely faced their OCD and anxiety through Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy. Their journey is a testament to the power of effective treatment, persistence, and the right support system. Here’s their story in their own words:

A Lifetime of Anxiety and the Search for Answers

“I have had anxiety for as long as I can remember. Looking back, it was probably always OCD. Over the course of 25 years, I worked with seven different therapists, several doctors, and even a psychiatrist. I tried multiple medications and various forms of therapy, but nothing seemed to break the obsessive-compulsive cycle.

In the fall of 2022, I found myself at a crossroads. I knew I needed therapy again, but I was unwilling to go through the same motions without real change. I had heard about Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) before, but I never thought I could handle it. My intrusive thoughts were too terrifying to face head-on.”

Understanding OCD

“One thing I have learned is that OCD is often called ‘the doubting disease’—it makes you question everything, even things you deeply value. For me, it latched onto my faith, my sense of responsibility, and my love for children. Some of my worst fears included harming a child, being responsible for someone getting sick, or even hitting someone with my car. My compulsions revolved around checking and endlessly questioning whether I was a terrible person.”

Finding the Right Help: A Turning Point

“When I first spoke with Dr. Fite at The Anxiety Center, he immediately validated what I had suspected for years—what I was experiencing was a very common form of OCD. After some initial testing, he officially diagnosed me. Instead of fear, I felt relief. I wasn’t scared of the label—I was eager for the right treatment.

However, the idea of ERP therapy still terrified me. I worried that engaging with my intrusive thoughts would go against my faith. But Dr. Fite reassured me, even sharing his own experience with OCD and reminding me that faith should lead to an abundant life, not one controlled by fear.”

The Challenge of ERP Therapy

“After a few sessions, I was referred to Skylar Weisenborn, an ERP specialist. She was kind, genuine, and, importantly, shared my faith background, which made a big difference in my journey.

I won’t sugarcoat it—ERP therapy was incredibly difficult. At first, I dreaded my appointments because each session was distressing. OCD had made me distrustful—even of the very people trying to help me. I questioned whether Skylar truly understood what she was doing or if what we were doing was even right. But I kept going, pushing past my doubts, and I started to see results.

Skylar never forced me beyond what I was ready for but challenged me in ways that were necessary for my growth. She even did every exposure with me, demonstrating her commitment to my healing. Her approach helped me build trust, not just in her, but in the therapy itself.”

Taking Recovery Beyond Therapy Sessions

“What made my ERP therapy truly effective was my dedication outside of sessions. I committed to daily ERP ‘homework,’ including:

• Writing down or repeatedly thinking intrusive thoughts and sitting with the anxiety

• Looking at images or reading things that triggered my OCD

• Actively resisting compulsions and responding to intrusive thoughts differently

Beyond therapy, I also found strength in the OCD community. I joined a support group focused on ERP, where I could be honest about my struggles and receive encouragement from others facing the same challenges. I listened to podcasts like The OCD Stories, followed OCD advocates, and read books based on ERP and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). All of these elements worked together to make my treatment successful.”

Where I Am Today

“Today, I am no longer in therapy, but I know The Anxiety Center is always there if I need them again. I am in a much better place. That doesn’t mean intrusive thoughts never pop up, but they no longer control my life. When they do come, I acknowledge them, let them exist, and continue living my life based on my values.

I am not cured, but I am healing. My anxiety has significantly decreased, and I can be present with the people I love and do activities that bring me joy—without being consumed by OCD. For that, I am deeply grateful.”

Hope for Others Facing OCD and Anxiety

This testimonial is just one of the many success stories we see at The Anxiety Center. If you or a loved one is struggling with OCD, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts, know that help is available. ERP therapy is challenging, but it works—and you don’t have to go through it alone.

If you're ready to take the first step toward healing, reach out to us today. Recovery is possible, and we’re here to guide you through it.