Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT)

What is Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) is a treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), with a recent explosion in research with promising outcomes. It is described as a gentler and more neuro-affirming alternative to Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).

Here at Heart of Texas Therapy Services, we have been using it with great success.

I-CBT is a cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT), but it is different from standard cognitive behavioral approaches to the treatment of OCD.

Standard CBT is based on the idea that obsessions find their origin in random intrusive cognitions, which develop into obsessions depending on how the person interprets them.

I-CBT takes a different approach. While intrusive thoughts are normal, and they occasionally occur to everyone, obsessions are not viewed as originating from random intrusive thoughts. Instead, I-CBT views obsessions as inferences or doubts that come about due to prior reasoning.

I-CBT is a treatment that is based on the central idea that obsessions are abnormal doubts about what “could be,” or “might be” (e.g., “I might have left the stove on”; “I might be contaminated”; “I might be a deviant”).

I-CBT aims to bring resolution to obsessional doubts by teaching individuals that obsessional doubts do not arise in the same way as normal doubts. Normal doubts come about for legitimate reasons, and are relevant to the here-and-now, whereas obsessional doubts never are.

Throughout treatment, individuals are encouraged to trust their inner and outer senses, which leaves no room for obsessional doubts. Fortunately, those with OCD already reason just like everyone else in most non-obsessional situations, so there is nothing new to learn, except to apply the same to the obsessional situation.

There is a large body of scientific literature supporting the central claims of I-CBT, including randomized controlled trials that have shown I-CBT to be an effective treatment for the majority of those suffering from OCD.

I-CBT is a promising alternative treatment option for those with OCD!

If you think I-CBT might be right for you:

Reach out to Heart of Texas Therapy Services to schedule a consultation.

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