How to Find OCD Treatment in Ireland
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood. It’s not just about handwashing or wanting things tidy—it’s a serious and often debilitating mental health condition that can take over your daily life. If you live with OCD, you likely know how exhausting the cycle of intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and compulsions can be.
The good news is: OCD is treatable. With the right support—especially from a therapist trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—many people experience real relief and recovery.
But navigating Ireland’s mental health system, especially when you’re already overwhelmed, can feel like a maze. Who do you talk to first? Do you need a diagnosis? How do you know if a therapist is qualified to treat OCD?
That’s why I’ve written this guide—to help you understand your options, make informed choices, and start moving toward the support you need.
Getting an OCD Diagnosis in Ireland
If you’re struggling with OCD you might be wondering how to get a formal diagnosis or where to start looking for help.
The truth is, you don’t need a diagnosis to begin therapy, especially if you're already noticing obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviours that are affecting your life. But for some, an assessment offers clarity and a useful foundation for treatment. Here are the main ways to access one in Ireland:
Start with Your GP - Your General Practitioner (GP) is often the best first step. They can assess your symptoms, rule out any physical health issues, and refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. If you're interested in accessing public mental health services, a GP referral is usually required.
See a Psychiatrist - Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health. They can formally diagnose OCD, prescribe medication if needed, and refer you for therapy. In Ireland, psychiatrists work both privately and within the public system (e.g., through HSE community mental health services).
Work with a Clinical Psychologist - Clinical psychologists are trained to assess and treat mental health conditions. Many specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—the gold-standard treatment for OCD. You can find accredited psychologists through the Psychological Society of Ireland.
Find a Psychotherapist - Psychotherapists may also be trained in ERP or integrative approaches, and can offer meaningful, effective support for OCD. When searching for a psychotherapist, look for someone who explicitly mentions experience with OCD and has training in ERP.
Accessing Public Mental Health Services in Ireland
If you're looking for OCD treatment through Ireland's public health system, there are several options available—but it’s important to know that access can vary depending on location, resources, and age group.
Community Mental Health Services
Your GP can refer you to a local Community Mental Health Team (CMHT). These teams often include psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, and sometimes Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) trained in CBT.
Many CMHTs offer free psychological services, but waiting times can be long, and availability of OCD-specific therapy varies across regions. If you’re referred to a CNS in CBT, it’s worth asking whether they have experience treating OCD and whether they use ERP.
Services for Children and Adolescents
If you're seeking help for a young person, there are a few dedicated public services in Ireland:
Willow Grove Adolescent Mental Health Services (St. Patrick’s Hospital, Dublin): Offers assessment and treatment to children and adolescents for OCD, BDD, and related conditions. More information can be found here.
Lucena Clinics (Dublin): Offer services for children and adolescents experiencing OCD, anxiety, and related conditions. You can learn more on the Lucena website.
Finding a Private OCD Therapist in Ireland
Many people choose private therapy when they’re looking for faster access, specialised support, or a therapist who truly understands OCD. But with so many options, it can be hard to know who’s actually qualified to help.
Here’s what to look for when choosing a private therapist:
What Makes a Therapist OCD-Specialist?
OCD often requires more than general talk therapy or basic anxiety management. Look for someone who offers:
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) – the gold-standard treatment for OCD
CBT or ACT – both evidence-based and effective when tailored to OCD
Experience with your specific symptoms (e.g., harm OCD, relationship OCD, contamination fears etc.)
They should also be accredited by a recognised body, such as:
Looking Beyond Ireland: Online Therapy Options
You’re not limited by geography when it comes to finding the right OCD therapist. Thanks to secure video platforms and the increasing availability of online therapy, you can now work with qualified professionals from all over the world—right from your own home.
Working with International OCD Specialists
Countries like the UK and US have large directories of therapists who specialise in OCD treatment, particularly ERP. If you're open to international options, here are a few reputable resources:
Online therapy can be just as effective as in-person treatment, especially for OCD. In fact, doing ERP in your own home can sometimes make exposures more relevant to your daily life.
