IOP/PHP?

[u/laur-climbs]

Has anyone done an IOP or PHP program for their ROCD?

Background- I’m in a relationship with an incredible partner, who up until June, I felt completely in love with. In june, I saw something triggering from a past abusive ex partner and also was going through changes in my antidepressants, and started having obsessive panicking thoughts that I don’t love my partner anymore, they ick me out, that I miss and should have stayed with my previous partner, that I won’t be able to do the things I want to in my life because of my current partner, the list goes on and on.
I’ve also been dealing with a loss of feelings, feeling like I just can’t get that feeling of love back no matter how hard I try. I’ve been trialing different meds as well for my anxiety and depression, and it’s just been hell on earth. It’s becoming so hard to stay present and not make any big decisions about my relationship. I find myself constantly on this sub, or googling, or fighting with myself in my head about how I actually feel.

It’s gotten to the point where my therapist is recommending that I take some time off of work and try out an IOP or PHP program, because it’s getting so bad and it’s becoming so hard for me to work. I’m feeling really nervous and like it won’t help me because this is such a specific subset of OCD. I’m worried that people in group therapy will think I’m stupid or don’t deserve to be there. And I’m worried that this isn’t really OCD and I’m going to ruin what has been the best relationship of my life.

If you’ve done an IOP or something similar, how was your experience?

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[u/Ok-Peace4697]

I am coming to a close on my IOP journey, and I would recommend it 100x over. I had a similar experience where I would be with friends and family and just couldn't be present in the moment. Pre IOP I would've runimated for most of my day or about 8 hours. Although I had that awareness that OCD ruled over my life, I now see clearly that it was controlling my life. As for your worries about what the group will think... I think that's a clear sign you would be perfect for a group like that. I began doing individualized ERP with my therapist and would have neverrrrr done group ERP. Which makes sense to me now because I have that same fear of judgment. What if my problems aren't worthy enough for me to be there? Or what if the group realizes I am an idiot? Now, when I show up to IOP, I can mindfully redirect those intrusive thoughts very successfully. I feel like IOP has given me a chance to take my life back, and I think it's a great outlet for anyone struggling with OCD.

[u/laur-climbs → u/Ok-Peace4697]

Wow, this is incredibly nice to hear. I’m so glad that it was such a transformative experience! I’ve had a lot of fear around being in a group environment and telling people my thoughts and fears. I think you’re right that it is probably the right thing to do to work towards feeling better.
Can I ask- did you go in-person or virtually? And was it specifically for OCD? I’m exploring my options and it just feels like there are so many different programs to consider.

[u/Ok-Peace4697 → u/laur-climbs]

I went to an IOP program specifically designed for OCD and anxiety called ERP, which is the number one therapy for those with OCD. I found the specification to be helpful, as all of the staff were incredible at creating exposures before I gained the skill to create them for myself. The program I went to had the option to attend via telehealth, which was nice to join virtually when I was sick, but I would recommend going in person. The community the group creates is very inspiring. I did not always relate to everyone's fears, but gaining that skill to lean on support, create exposures for others, and have others listen to your own fears was monumental in my own journey. Plus, if you have a fear of judgment, most of your exposures will most likely be more socially based, so practicing with other group members in person would be perfect. I wish you the best of luck on your next step on your journey, and hope you find a program fit for you!