OCD Symptoms: Obsessions, Compulsions and When to Get Help
OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) has two parts: obsessions, which are unwanted, distressing thoughts, images or urges that keep returning, and compulsions, which are repeated actions or mental rituals done to reduce the distress. It is not about being tidy. OCD takes up a lot of time (often more than an hour a day), causes real distress and gets in the way of life. It is treatable with the right therapy.
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Common Obsessions
Fear of contamination or germs, doubts that you locked the door or turned off the stove, fear of harming someone, unwanted violent, sexual or blasphemous thoughts, need for things to be symmetrical or "just right", and fear of having done something wrong or sinful.
Common Compulsions
Repeated hand washing or cleaning, checking locks, switches and appliances, counting, repeating actions or words, arranging things in a fixed way, asking others for reassurance, and mental rituals such as praying or reviewing events in your head until it feels right.
Waswas (Religious OCD)
Waswas (وسوسہ) is a common form of OCD in Muslim communities. It can involve repeating wudu or prayers, doubting whether prayers or fasts are valid, or unwanted blasphemous thoughts. These thoughts do not reflect your faith. They are a symptom, and treatment works with respect for your beliefs.
OCD or Just a Habit?
Liking things neat is not OCD. OCD thoughts are unwanted and distressing, the rituals feel impossible to resist, and the cycle takes up time and interferes with work, study, relationships or religious life. Only an assessment can tell you whether it is OCD.
Treatment
The most effective psychological treatment is CBT with exposure and response prevention (ERP), where you gradually face feared thoughts without doing the ritual. See our OCD treatment page and CBT. We are psychologists and do not prescribe medication. If a medical opinion would help, we will say so and work alongside your doctor or psychiatrist.
Where to Get Help in Pakistan
The Meeting Matters is a psychology practice in Islamabad, working since 2010. Sessions are by secure video from anywhere in Pakistan, or in person at our F-11/1 clinic in Islamabad, in Urdu, Punjabi or English, with evening and weekend slots. Message us on WhatsApp with what you are dealing with and a time that suits you. We usually reply within about 30 minutes and will suggest a suitable therapist. We are not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital.
Meet Therapists Who Can Help
Muhammad Naushad Anjum
Founder & Lead Psychologist — Couples, Marriage & Relationship Counselling
Tasmia Asghar
Clinical Psychologist, CBT, DBT & NLP Therapist
Ayesha Tariq
Clinical Psychologist — Relationship, Couples & Marriage Counselor
What Our Clients Say
“I had a really great experience at Meeting Matters Clinic in F-11. The therapists here are highly professional aur unka ravaiya bohat supportive hai. It’s not easy to find a safe space for mental health, but yahan ka mahol bohat pur-sakoon aur welcoming hai. They genuinely listen to your problems without any judgment. Highly recommended for anyone looking for good counseling in Islamabad.”
Subhan A. · Google Review
“I am truly grateful to Ms. Tasmiya Asghar and the team at Meeting Matters. I reached out during one of the most difficult periods of my life while dealing with grief and trying to be the best parent I could be for my children. Ms. Tasmiya's kindness, empathy, and guidance helped me navigate emotions that often felt overwhelming. She helped me understand my feelings, regain perspective, and think through practical ways of supporting my children and myself. I always felt respected, heard, and comfortable during our sessions. I would wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Tasmiya Asghar and Meeting Matters to anyone going through a challenging time and looking for professional support in a compassionate environment.”
Hashir K. · Google Review
“Have noticed alot of changes within myself because of the sessions I've had. My therapist is extremely kind and helpful. I've never once felt uncomfortable feeling like I'm talking to a stranger. My Dr has made me feel as if she's my own and has helped me a lot.”
Shagufta K. · Google Review
15+ Years of Experience You Can Trust
The Meeting Matters has been providing professional counseling, therapy and training since 2010 — over fifteen years of clinical experience supporting individuals, couples and families across Pakistan and around the world. Our psychologists are trained in evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, EMDR and psychodynamic therapy, delivered through confidential online counseling and online therapy as well as in-person sessions at our Islamabad clinic.
Explore Our Full Range of Services
Alongside specialist support for this concern, you have access to our full range of services — the same experienced team, available online or in person:
Individual Therapy
One-to-one online counseling and therapy for anxiety, depression, stress and personal growth.
Couples Counseling
Online relationship counseling for communication, conflict and rebuilding trust.
Marriage Counseling
Online marriage counseling for couples working through distress or disconnection.
Premarital Counseling
Guided conversations before marriage, available online.
Family Therapy
Family counseling for communication, parenting and conflict resolution.
Child Psychology
Child and adolescent therapy with parent guidance.
Online Therapy
Secure online therapy sessions from anywhere.
Corporate Mental Health Workshops
Workplace wellbeing programs for organisations.
Career Counseling
Support for career transitions and workplace stress.
Key Benefits
- Qualified psychologists and therapists
- Online anywhere in Pakistan
- Clinic in F-11/1, Islamabad
- Sessions in Urdu, Punjabi or English
- Evening and weekend slots
- Rated 4.7 on Google (424 reviews)
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Take the first step toward better mental health. Our compassionate team is here to support you.