CQC Regulated | GMC Registered Consultant-Psychiatrists

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Children and Young People

If your child is experiencing repetitive thoughts or behaviours, understanding the cause can provide clarity and reassurance.

It can be concerning to notice your child becoming distressed by thoughts they cannot control, or engaging in repeated behaviours that feel difficult for them to stop.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can affect children and young people in different ways, often impacting daily routines, school life, and emotional wellbeing. A specialist assessment can help to understand what your child is experiencing and identify the most appropriate support.

We provide clinically led assessments to support children and young people experiencing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, helping families build understanding and a clear, structured pathway forward, particularly where OCD is affecting daily routines, learning, and emotional wellbeing.

Child looking thoughtfully at computer screen in dimly lit room
  • Over 16 Years' Experience
  • CQC Regulated & GMC Registered
  • Clinically Led & Evidence-Based
  • Detailed Clinical Reports
Understanding OCD

Common signs of OCD in children

Children may not always be able to explain what they are experiencing, but you may notice:
These behaviours are not simply habits — they are often driven by anxiety and can feel difficult for the child to control.
OCD can also occur alongside other conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, or low mood, making a comprehensive assessment particularly important.
  • Repetitive behaviours such as checking, counting, or washing
  • Strong need for routines or things to feel “just right”
  • Distress if rituals are interrupted
  • Persistent worries or intrusive thoughts
  • Reassurance-seeking from parents or caregivers
  • Avoidance of certain situations or activities
  • Difficulty concentrating due to intrusive thoughts
Young person wearing headphones at computer during late evening hours

What is OCD?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by obsessions and compulsions.

Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause anxiety or distress

Compulsions are repetitive behaviours or mental acts carried out to reduce that anxiety

For example, a child may feel compelled to check things repeatedly, follow strict routines, or carry out certain actions to prevent something bad from happening.

OCD can vary in severity, but when symptoms become persistent, they can interfere with daily life, learning, and relationships.

Daily Impact

How OCD may affect daily life

OCD can impact different areas of a child’s life:
At school:
  • Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
  • Slower working pace due to rituals or checking
  • Avoidance of certain activities or environments
At home:
  • Increased distress or frustration
  • Time-consuming routines
  • Repeated reassurance-seeking
Our Approach

Our services include:

We take a structured, evidence-based approach to understanding OCD and any related concerns.
01
Comprehensive child mental health assessments
02
Exploration of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours
03
Screening for co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, or autism
04
Detailed reports with clear, practical recommendations
05
Guidance for parents, schools, and other professionals
06
Access to appropriate support and treatment pathways
All assessments are delivered by experienced clinicians, including consultant psychiatrists and specialist practitioners.
When to Seek Support

When to seek support

It may be helpful to seek professional advice if:
Symptoms are persistent or increasing
Behaviours are time-consuming or distressing
OCD is affecting school, relationships, or daily functioning
Behaviours are time-consuming or distressing
Early understanding and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the impact on daily life.
Why Choose Us

Why choose The ADHD Centre

  • Specialist expertise in child and adolescent mental health
  • Experienced consultant psychiatrists and clinicians
  • Structured, evidence-based assessments
  • Consideration of co-occurring conditions
  • Clear, practical recommendations for home and school
  • Established provider with over 16 years’ experience
Adult comforting child with reassuring embrace and gentle hand on head
Our Process

A clear and supportive pathway

We understand that OCD can be distressing for both children and families. Our process is designed to provide clarity and reassurance:
1
Initial discussion to understand your concerns
2
Assessment with a specialist clinician
3
Comprehensive report outlining findings and recommendations
4
Guidance on next steps and ongoing support
Our aim is to provide a clear understanding of your child’s needs and practical strategies to support them.

Get in touch

If you would like to discuss your child’s symptoms or explore assessment options, our team is here to help. Contact us to speak with a member of our team and arrange the next steps.

Choose Your ADHD Assessment

Select the option that best suits your needs.
Service
Location
Action
  • Child ADHD Assessments - IN PERSON
London - Belgravia
  • Child ADHD Assessments - IN PERSON
London - Marylebone
  • Child ADHD Assessments - IN PERSON
Manchester

Need help choosing?

Speak to our team.

Choose Your ADHD Assessment

Select the option that best suits your needs.
Service
Location
Action
  • In-person Private ADHD Assessment
London - Belgravia
  • In-person Private ADHD Assessment
London - Marylebone
  • Private ADHD Assessment
Manchester

Need help choosing?

Speak to our team.