UK: AuDHD and OCD. Didn't get help from ERP (CBT) Thinking of EMDR therapy. (Pure-O and Real Event OCD)

I tried CBT/ ERP multiple time with no-benefit. I have AuDHD and OCD. (Autism and ADHD) I probably have CPTSD too from trauma

My OCD is pure-O and Real Event-OCD; so kinda atypical-OCD :/

UK NHS Exposure and response prevention therapy seems the only therapy offered for OCD. I wish alternatives existed; ERP is CBT and potentially Neurodivergent people don't always get much relief from it. I know others that found it didn't help. Its the "gold standard" but if it doesn't or can't help you the medical service feels like it gaslights you into feeling lazy or just offers more of the same! It takes ages on the NHS. I had a remission window and then it came back with a vengeance! My life is pretty much 24/7 enslaved to OCD

I'm thinking of looking into EMDR. Similarly diagnosed (autistic, AuDHD and OCD) ND friends and acquaintances have recommended it; it might get to the root rather than the symptoms, thoughts? ERP felt formulaic and it didn't really go deep into my OCD "trauma"

Pure-O and Real Event OCD is an horrible combination! Any thoughts on EMDR therapy from anyone Neurodivergent with OCD? I'd appreciate insights!

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Onryo · 22-25, F

Emdr did not work for my trauma at all, but I have very different diagnoses to you

GoldenOldie · 31-35, M

@Onryo oh really? How would you say it failed to help? Sad that is didn't also🥺

Onryo · 22-25, F

@GoldenOldie my trauma caused ptsd, RAD, MDD, anxiety and panic disorder. I was told that the sessions would bring stuff to the surface but it made my mental health worse. I attempted suicide after the block of sessions so my psychiatrist ruled it out as a viable option. I’ve pretty much tried all therapies going. I’m currently on I tensive psychodynamic therapy and it seems to be doing more than any of the others did. Although I’ve also attempted suicide twice while doing this therapy so who knows

GoldenOldie · 31-35, M

@Onryo Sorry to hear that. I hope the psychodynamic therapy helps! I have heard good things about it I believe. It's ggod to reach out and access peer-support to.

Onryo · 22-25, F

@GoldenOldie it is but I find that people can’t handle my mental health, they mean well by offering but then when I really need it they can’t cope with it and abandon me. I’m better off just trying to keep it inside

GoldenOldie · 31-35, M

@Onryo I hear what you are saying — just be careful isolation might feel safe; but it can be risky and dangerous. I do hope things will get better for us both ❤‍🩹

Onryo · 22-25, F

@GoldenOldie I have a psychiatric team that oversee my care and ensure I’m safe

GoldenOldie · 31-35, M

@Onryo I’m glad. You deserve support and wellbeing 🫂