Natural Solutions and Treatments For OCD

Natural Solutions and Treatments for OCD
Intro to Natural Solutions and Treatments for OCD

Are you looking for something that actually works for your child with
OCD, without the side effects of medication? Are you looking for a more
natural or integrative approach, but unsure of where to start or where to
go next?
If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. I’ve worked with so many families
who have gone through the same thing, and I know how overwhelming it
can be.
That’s why I’ve put together this concise, easy-to-understand guide to 10

of the most beneficial natural solutions and treatments for OCD.
Understanding the Integrative, Holistic Approach to OCD
An integrative and holistic approach to OCD treatment involves the

understanding that everything is connected in the body and the brain. We
aim to treat the whole child, which includes aspects of physical, emotional,
psychological, spiritual, and social health.
The goal is to restore balance in order to calm the nervous system and
reduce OCD symptoms, with an emphasis on getting to the root cause of
these thoughts and behaviors.
Ⓒ
“Changing the way we view and treat children’s mental health.” Dr. Roseann Dr.
Roseann Capanna-Hodge & The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health
www.drroseann.com
www.childrensmentalhealth.com
Therapies and techniques like neurofeedback, biofeedback, and EFT

(tapping) can help make use of the body’s ability to heal itself, while
targeted supplements, herbs, and dietary changes can help to correct any
imbalances that may be interfering with healthy brain function.
Natural therapies and solutions don’t always replace standard treatments,

but may be used in combination with them, depending on the needs of the
individual.
One of the most effective standard therapies for OCD that can be used
alongside these natural treatments is a specialized form of Cognitive
Behavioral Therapy (CBT) called exposure therapy, which involves safely
exposing an individual to their fears and triggers so that they can learn to
ignore them. More information about exposure therapy for OCD can be
found here.
Ⓒ
www.drroseann.com
Solution #1: Neurofeedback
WHAT IS IT: Neurofeedback is a therapeutic tool that works on the

subconscious level to regulate brainwave patterns and functioning. Brain
scans show that individuals with OCD have dysregulated brainwave
patterns that are associated with obsessive and repetitive thoughts. With
the use of computers, neurofeedback helps to modify this abnormal brain
activity, training the nervous system to regulate and calm itself through
direct feedback and reinforcement.
HOW IT WORKS: Neurofeedback works to calm the central nervous

system and with OCD, the CNS is stress hyperactivated, so calming it down
is an essential first step to treating OCD. With Neurofeedback, the
practitioner administers a QEEG brain map, a safe and non-invasive
process that records brain activity with the help of sensors or does a
“brain check” by taking averages by placing sensors at different locations..
After reviewing the results, the practitioner puts together an
individualized treatment plan involving a series of neurofeedback sessions.
Through neurofeedback, the brain is then rewarded for healthy brainwave
activity, training it to change and regulate itself. These changes can then
help to reduce symptoms of obsessive thinking and compulsive behavior.
NEXT STEPS: Read the complete guide to neurofeedback here, and find more
information about neurofeedback for OCD here. Neurofeedback is offered at
my center, more information about which can be found here.
Ⓒ
www.drroseann.com
Solution #2: ERP Therapy
WHAT IS IT: Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (E/RP or ERP

Therapy) is a combination of Exposure Therapy and Cognitive-Behavior
Therapy (CBT) that exposes the person to their trigger so they learn how to
be uncomfortable to the point where they can ignore their trigger. Before
E/RP begins deep psychoeducation about the OCD impacts the brain and
behavior is essential for both the child or teen and parent. Understanding
the neuropsychological mechanisms of anxiety and OCD helps one to move
forward in therapy.
HOW IT WORKS: With E/RP, first, the person identifies all the triggers.
Next, the therapist exposes the person to the situations that trigger his or
her obsessions and compulsions (sometimes starting gradually and other
times addressing more moderate triggers). The therapy emphasizes
learning how to deal with the uncomfortableness rather than avoiding it,
as the latter leads to negative reinforcement. Patients learn that with
exposure, their anxiety increases, but it also decreases. They safely test the
limits of their fears with a therapist guiding them through the awareness
that their fears aren’t rational and their exposure experiences are a
validation of that. Over time, through psychoeducation and cognitive
behavioral therapy, the person’s response to triggers changes, leading to a
decrease in the frequency of compulsions and the intensity of obsessions.
NEXT STEPS: You can read more about E/RP for OCD here. E/RP is offered at
my center, more information about which can be found here.
Ⓒ
www.drroseann.com
Solution #3: Supplements
WHAT IS IT: Supplements can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids,

antioxidants, herbs, enzymes, and other nutritional products. While some
people take supplements to support their overall health, specific
supplements may be used in more targeted ways for those with chronic
conditions. For individuals with OCD, supplements can help to support
relaxation and neurocognitive functioning, and reduce obsessions and
compulsions.
HOW IT WORKS: Supplements may help with OCD symptoms in different

ways, including by modulating neurotransmitter activity, improving detox
pathways, and reducing inflammation. For example, individuals with OCD
have been shown to have dysregulated levels of the excitatory
neurotransmitter glutamate. The amino acid N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can
help to regulate this. L-theanine, meanwhile, can help to boost levels of the
feel-good brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine, and the calming
GABA. Other supplements that may be helpful for OCD include glycine and
inositol.
NEXT STEPS: You can read more about the top 5 supplements for OCD here.
It’s always important to speak with your child’s practitioner prior to
introducing any new supplements.
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www.drroseann.com
Solution #4: EFT/Tapping
WHAT IS IT: Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), often referred to as

“tapping”, is a natural form of therapy based on the same energy meridian
system that has been used in acupuncture for thousands of years. It is
centered around the understanding that emotional stress creates
blockages in the body that impede healing and contribute to illness. By
(literally) tapping into the meridian system, energy flow can be restored,
along with the body’s ability to heal itself.
HOW IT WORKS: EFT therapy involves gently tapping on a sequence of

meridian points on the head and chest while focusing on and making
statements about a specific issue or problem. The emphasis is on the
acceptance of oneself and the release of negative thoughts and emotions.
For those with OCD, the focus is on letting go of the obsessive thought
patterns that lead to compulsive behaviors.
NEXT STEPS: While there are resources available online geared towards
doing EFT at home, it’s best to work with an experienced practitioner. More
information can be found here.
Ⓒ
www.drroseann.com
Solution #5: Anti-inflammatory diet
WHAT IS IT: A brain-healthy diet is essential for supporting mental and

overall health. An anti-inflammatory diet is one of the best places to start.
By focusing on fresh, whole foods and reducing intake of inflammatory
ones, you can lower inflammation, enhance detoxification, increase
absorption of nutrients from food as well as from supplements, and
improve immune system function, all of which can help with OCD
symptoms.
HOW IT WORKS: Individuals may have different sensitivities, but as a

simple starting point, an anti-inflammatory diet eliminates or significantly
reduces sugar, gluten, dairy, and all processed and refined foods, and
emphasizes fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and clean sources of
protein.
NEXT STEPS: Dietary changes involve time, commitment, and planning. It’s
best to get the whole family on board, and start by putting together a meal
plan for the week that is low in inflammatory foods and high in fresh, whole
foods.
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www.drroseann.com
Solution #6: Biofeedback
WHAT IS IT: Biofeedback is a therapeutic technique that involves the use

of sensors and active self-regulation of body functions like breath and
heart rate in order to calm and balance the nervous system. Unlike
neurofeedback, biofeedback involves conscious focus and control over
these body functions and thoughts. This technique can help to reduce
stress and obsessive thoughts.
HOW IT WORKS: During a biofeedback session, individuals are connected

to electrical sensors that provide feedback about what’s going on in the
body. By making small changes, including to the breath or letting go of
muscle tension, the feedback changes. Gradually, one learns how to
change the body’s functions on their own, helping to balance the nervous
system.
NEXT STEPS: You can read more about biofeedback here.
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www.drroseann.com
Solution #7: Reiki
WHAT IS IT: Reiki is a traditional Japanese form of energy healing that can
be used for general relaxation as well as to help with various different
conditions. There are many different factors that may contribute to the
development and symptoms of OCD, including stress. And when the body
is stressed, healing and healthy brain function take a backseat. Reiki is
aimed at stress reduction, relaxation, and healing, centered around the
concept that life force energy flows through us and must be in balance for
optimal health.
HOW IT WORKS: Reiki is a gentle and safe therapy that can be used in
combination with other treatments. A Reiki practitioner places their hands
just above the body, and works to transmit positive life force energy to the
individual. For those with OCD, this therapy can help to calm the nervous
system, which can lead to reduced symptoms and enhanced brain
function.
NEXT STEPS: Search for a reiki practitioner in your area to find out more.
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www.drroseann.com
Solution #8: Meditation
WHAT IS IT: Meditation is a tool that can help to provide clarity, enhance
mood, decrease stress and anxiety, and calm the brain. It has been used
successfully in the treatment of many different physical and mental health
conditions for children and adults alike.
HOW IT WORKS: There are many different ways to meditate, but the
practice generally involves closing the eyes and focusing on the breath, on
one’s surroundings, or on a visualization. Even a few minutes of
meditation, especially when done regularly, can help to calm the nervous
system and reduce symptoms and behaviors associated with OCD.
NEXT STEPS: You can read more about meditation here. Meditation can be
done at home with the whole family. Professional, guided meditation is also
available for those who are new to the practice.
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www.drroseann.com
Solution #9: Herbs
WHAT IS IT: Herbalism is a traditional form of medicine that uses herbs

and plants in order to treat various conditions. Herbs may be taken orally
or applied topically, depending on their purpose.
HOW IT WORKS: Different herbs work in different ways to help with OCD
symptoms. Some of the most helpful herbs for OCD include milk thistle,
which has antioxidant properties and helps with detoxification, and St.
John’s wort, which can help to boost levels of serotonin in the brain.
NEXT STEPS: Information about some of the best herbs and supplements for
OCD can be found here. Speak with your child’s practitioner prior to
introducing any new herbs.
Ⓒ
www.drroseann.com
Solution #10: Exercise
WHAT IS IT: Exercise can take many different forms, from running or
jumping on a trampoline to organized sports. A regular exercise routine is
essential for mental and overall health, and is an important component of
any natural treatment plan for OCD. Research has shown that exercise can
help to reduce the frequency and severity of OCD symptoms.
HOW IT WORKS: When we exercise, new connections are formed

between neurons in the brain, which can help to reduce symptoms of OCD.
Exercising also helps to lower inflammation, boost mood through the
release of endorphins, and reduce stress. The activeness of exercise may
also help to provide a distraction from obsessive thoughts.
NEXT STEPS: There are all kinds of different ways that children (and the
whole family!) can get their exercise. Look for fun activities that will help to
get your child excited about being active, and make sure that it becomes a
regular part of their routine.
**Disclaimer: This checklist does not constitute or replace medical advice.
Ⓒ
www.drroseann.com

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Natural Solutions and Treatments for OCD

Intro to Natural Solutions and Treatments for OCD

That’s why I’ve put together this concise, easy-to-understand guide to 10

Understanding the Integrative, Holistic Approach to OCD

An integrative and holistic approach to OCD treatment involves the

Therapies and techniques like neurofeedback, biofeedback, and EFT

Natural therapies and solutions don’t always replace standard treatments,

Solution #1: Neurofeedback

WHAT IS IT: Neurofeedback is a therapeutic tool that works on the

HOW IT WORKS: Neurofeedback works to calm the central nervous

Solution #2: ERP Therapy

WHAT IS IT: Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (E/RP or ERP

Solution #3: Supplements

WHAT IS IT: Supplements can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids,

HOW IT WORKS: Supplements may help with OCD symptoms in different

Solution #4: EFT/Tapping

WHAT IS IT: Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), often referred to as

HOW IT WORKS: EFT therapy involves gently tapping on a sequence of

Solution #5: Anti-inflammatory diet

WHAT IS IT: A brain-healthy diet is essential for supporting mental and

HOW IT WORKS: Individuals may have different sensitivities, but as a

Solution #6: Biofeedback

WHAT IS IT: Biofeedback is a therapeutic technique that involves the use

HOW IT WORKS: During a biofeedback session, individuals are connected

NEXT STEPS: You can read more about biofeedback here.

Solution #7: Reiki

Solution #8: Meditation

Solution #9: Herbs

WHAT IS IT: Herbalism is a traditional form of medicine that uses herbs

Solution #10: Exercise

HOW IT WORKS: When we exercise, new connections are formed

**Disclaimer: This checklist does not constitute or replace medical advice.

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