When is OCPD a problem?

Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder

This is a persistent inclination towards order, control, and precision... Individuals with OCPD possess a dedication to detail and an unwavering commitment to their endeavors that interferes with quality of life... it’s worth noting that OCPD is distinct from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)... where OCD manifests through intrusive thoughts and repetitive actions, OCPD centers on a structured and perfectionistic approach to life that leads to lack of fulfillment and constant disharmony. This nuanced condition can exert a profound influence on personal relationships and overall well-being.

Preoccupation with Rules and Orderliness... 

You might find yourself paying way too much attention to rules, lists, and keeping things organized– it’s not helping, it’s likely hurting. It's normal for you to feel a bit anxious or stressed when routines are disrupted but you lash out at others when things don’t go as expected and it’s a problem 

Striving for Perfection... 

Your strong desire for perfection in your work and performance is something special about you, but it’s obviously causing issues. Setting high standards for yourself and others is healthy, but not being able to delegate is a sign that you’re taking yourself wayyyy too seriously

Rigid Sense of Right and Wrong... 

Your strict sense of right and wrong shows your integrity, but you’re critical of yourself or others when these standards aren't met and it damages relationships and burns bridges 

Over-Dedication to Work... 

Your dedication to work is impressive and prioritizing productivity and accomplishment is a strength, but it usually means work takes precedence over leisure or personal relationships and you don’t see any other way

Sticking to Rigidity Even When it’s Failing You... 

You have a strong sense of how things should be done, and that's something to be proud of, but when faced with more efficient alternatives, you stick to your way. It's what makes you feel stuck most of the time 

Difficulty Navigating New Situations…

Adjusting to new situations or environments is extremely challenging for you. Feeling a bit uncomfortable or anxious in unexpected or unstructured circumstances is a common experience but you just can’t seem to roll with the punches 

Being Unable to Give  Time or Resources... 

You find it very difficult to give freely of your time, resources, and emotions, and it means building relationships is super difficult.  You’re so busy with rigid routines that it actually slows or interferes with completing tasks and leaves no time

Expressing Affection... 

Expressing emotions, especially affection, is pretty uncomfortable for you, and it leaves you wondering. Connecting with others on an emotional level takes a tremendous amount of effort.  Expressing affection, which often involves emotional vulnerability and spontaneity, is uncomfortable for you

Treatment for these hangups can truly transform your life….

 You can finally learn to recognize and challenge those unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors and live a lot better.  Think about what rigid perfectionism has cost you.  What would it take for you to let it go?

We can talk about opening up to more flexibility…..

Acquiring effective tools to manage anxiety, and improving relationships and communication through tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. If you’re willing to take some baby steps, you can gain a deeper understanding of how to cope with unhelpful habits.  By addressing these challenges directly with affection and vulnerability, you’ll create more authentic connections.You deserve a chance to cope, and to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life!