Cognitive Defusion

[alexandraisobsessed]

Good morning all!

I just had a productive therapy session and was given some great insights that I thought would be helpful to share and pose some questions here.

I do both trauma work and OCD work so I’ll put it into that context, but I think it’s helpful for those of us with multiple disorders.

When I actively do trauma work my OCD symptoms tend to flare and, although I am able to apply ERP and resist physical compulsions, I am still ruminating and affected by my obsessions . This side tracks the trauma work!

My therapist mentioned cognitive defusion; which is a strategy from ACT therapy. He says this is a way to put distance between yourself and your thoughts to sort of take some of their power without becoming avoidant.

This is new to me as we’ve always focused on ERP for my OCD, but it sounds like something those of us with mental compulsions could use.

Has anyone tried it? Do you find it helpful?

I’m nervous and excited to learn something new.

Thanks everyone!

Alex

[Hannahzid IOCDF Advocate]

This sounds so interesting and helpful! I have never heard of this term before! I definitely struggle with worrying if I am avoiding thoughts/distracting too much and this seems like a great way to ensure I am present but not engaging. I am going to discuss it with my therapist next session! Thank you for sharing.

[alexandraisobsessed IOCDF Advocate in reply to Hannahzid]

Thank you ☺️ I hope it helps. I’m eager to see if this really works for my ruminating as I really struggle with that at times.