Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by the presence of unwanted and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). Some common examples of OCD may include compulsive hand-washing, checking if the doors are locked repeatedly, counting, etc.

CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most common treatment options for OCD. CBT aims to help individuals with OCD identify, challenge and change their negative thought patterns and behaviors that maintain the OCD symptoms.

The following are the steps involved in CBT for OCD:

1. Psychoeducation: The therapist provides the patient with information about OCD and how it affects their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.

2. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): The therapist helps the patient to confront their obsessions and resist performing compulsive behaviors. This involves a systematic and gradual exposure to the feared situations, thoughts, or objects, without performing any compulsions. The therapist also helps to identify their anxiety levels and teaches coping strategies like relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and breathing exercises, to manage the anxiety.

3. Cognitive Restructuring: This involves identifying and challenging the negative thoughts or core beliefs that trigger the obsessions and compulsions. The therapist helps the patient to question their assumptions and develop more balanced and positive thoughts.

4. Homework and Relapse Prevention: The therapist assigns homework to the patient to practice the new coping skills and to monitor their progress. The therapist also teaches them relapse prevention strategies to avoid the recurrence of the OCD symptoms.

CBT for OCD is generally considered to be effective and recommended as a first-line treatment.