OCD Therapy

OCD and Autism

Autism and OCD can occur together, and when they do, it can be hard to know what is what. Parents often ask whether a behavior is part of how their child naturally experiences the world, or whether anxiety is driving it. We help families sort this out with curiosity and respect.

Our focus is the OCD. Autism is part of who a person is, and we honor it throughout treatment.

Routine, interest or compulsion?

Many autistic children and teens find comfort in routines and deep interests. These often bring joy, calm and a sense of order. Compulsions are different: they are driven by fear or distress, they feel like something that must be done to prevent a bad outcome, and they tend to bring short relief followed by more anxiety.

Our article on when OCD and autism overlap walks through these differences in more detail.

Questions parents often ask themselves

Is this something my child enjoys, or something they feel they have to do? Does it calm them, or does the worry come right back? Would interrupting it lead to disappointment, or to real fear that something bad will happen? These questions can help parents begin to notice patterns.

You do not need to have the answers before reaching out. Part of our work is observing together, asking your child about their experience in ways that make sense to them, and sorting out which behaviors are best supported and which are best gently challenged. Every child is different, so every plan is different too.

What OCD can look like alongside autism

Rituals performed with visible distress rather than enjoyment
Repeated questions that seek reassurance about something going wrong
Growing avoidance of places, objects or people linked to a fear
Rituals that expand over time and interfere with daily life

How we help

We use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), adapted to each person's communication and sensory needs. That can mean visual supports such as charts and exposure ladders, very concrete steps, clear predictable session structure and slower pacing. We check in often and build on strengths and interests.

Parent involvement is essential. We help parents understand which behaviors to leave alone and which are OCD, and how to respond to reassurance seeking and accommodation in a steady, supportive way. Between-session practice is planned together so it fits your family's routines.

Sessions are held by secure telehealth for clients physically located in Florida, from the Panhandle to the Keys. Get in touch to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. We do not treat autism. Our work targets OCD symptoms that cause distress, while respecting your child's routines, interests and way of experiencing the world.

ERP can be adapted with visual supports, concrete steps and slower pacing. We tailor each plan to the individual.

Yes. We support teens, young adults and adults with co-occurring OCD and autism, with the same individualized approach.

Ready to Get Started?

Get in Touch

We'd be honored to be part of your support system. Whether you're ready to get started or just have a few questions, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you take the next step with confidence and care.