Differential Diagnoses in OCD and Its Subtypes: Assessment and Treatment Strategies

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be deceptively simple to diagnose with its core symptoms of intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive rituals (compulsions) embedded in the name. However, many mental health conditions can present with symptoms that appear obsessive and compulsive, just as many OCD symptoms can exacerbate the presentations of other disorders. For example, when are rigid rules and repeated behaviors better understood as features of autism rather than OCD, and when is excessive mental rumination and anxiety better understood in the context of a mood disorder?

This a...Read moredvanced-level presentation explores how we assess for and diagnose OCD, how it shares meaningful territory with other conditions, and how knowing what is NOT OCD can also improve your conceptualization and treatment planning. We examine eight subthemes of OCD, offering practical guidance on issues to consider, what to rule in and out, and evidence-based treatment recommendations.

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Learning Objectives

Learners will be able to distinguish between OCD and 3 other conditions that involve unwanted thoughts and ritualistic/repeated behaviors.
Learners will be able to list three considerations to rule in or out in assessing Harm OCD
Learners will be able to explain how OCD and trauma symptoms interact with each other
Learners will be able to describe 2 ways symptoms of borderline personality disorder can share OCD features

Target Audience

This educational activity is intended for behavioral health professionals, including Psychologists, Social Workers, and Counselors.

Learning Levels

Advanced

Friday, December 11, 2026

Live Interactive Webinar

12:00 PM EST - 02:30 PM EST

Register for this Webinar

$50.00 - $62.50

EARN 2.5 CE Credit Hours
Click Here to Register

About the speaker

Jonathan Hershfield, LCMFT

Mr.

Jon Hershfield, LCMFT is the director of the Center for OCD and Anxiety at Sheppard Pratt in Towson, Maryland, where he specializes in the treatment of OCD and related disorders in both outpatient and residential settings. He is the author of When a Family Member Has OCD, Overcoming Harm OCD, The OCD Workbook for Teens, Being a Parent With OCD, and co-author of Everyday Mindfulness for OCD, The Mindfulness Workbook for OCD, and The Unwanted Thoughts and Intense Emotions Workbook. Jon is a member of the Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board of the International OCD Foundation and a faculty member of their Behavioral Therapy Training Institute.

Agenda

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - What Is and Isn't OCD?

1:00 PM - 1:15 PM - Break

1:15 PM - 2:15 PM - OCD Themes and How to Approach Them

2:15 PM - 2:30 PM - Q&A

CE Information - Earn 2.5 CE Credit Hours

CE Approvals

American Psychological Association

ARC Health is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologist. ARC Health maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NYS Board for Social Work

ARC Health OPCO, LLC is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0899.

NYS Board for Psychology - Sponsored by The Ross Center

The Ross Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders, LLC, is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0105.

National Board of Certified Counselors - Sponsored by Grow Counseling

Live Event Only: NBCC ACEP No. 7557

CE Process Info

Many licensing boards accept CE from APA approved sponsors as well as for trainings approved by boards in other jurisdictions. Please review this chart to see whether your state approves CE for this training.

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Disclosure

There are no financial disclosures.