About the event
Not all thoughts of harm signal risk—and not all risk presents as intrusive thoughts. This talk will examine the clinical distinctions between harm-related obsessive–compulsive disorder (Harm OCD) and genuine suicidal ideation (SI) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) urges, with emphasis on accurate assessment and differential formulation. We will review key phenomenological markers that differentiate ego-dystonic intrusive thoughts from intent-driven risk states and outline how misclassification can lead to inappropriate or ineffective intervention. The presentation will compare evidence-based treatment approaches for each presentation and highlight common pitfalls in clinical decision-making. Presenters will underscore the critical role of structured collaboration between mental health, medical, and risk-management providers to support safety with diagnostic and treatment precision.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:
Describe key features that differentiate harm-related obsessive–compulsive disorder (harm-OCD) from suicidal ideation (SI) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) urges.
Compare and analyze evidence-based assessment and treatment approaches for Harm OCD versus SI and NSSI, and identify common clinical errors related to misclassification.
Describe interdisciplinary strategies to plan coordinated care that supports diagnostic accuracy, appropriate treatment, and patient safety.
This program is intended for clinicians with advanced clinical training. OCD Texas is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. OCD Texas maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Licensed mental health professionals other than psychologists outside the state of Texas should review your licensing board guidelines of your state regarding eligibility.
In order to receive CE credit, attendees must register for the event, complete virtual sign-in/out links at the webinar, and attend the full presentation (no exceptions).
There are no known conflicts of interest, including commercial support, for these presenters or this program.
Please contact the organizer at education@ocdtexas.org if you need to cancel. Cancellation requests sent 14 or more days before the event are eligible for a refund.