When Intrusive Thoughts Feel Unspeakable: Healing from P-OCD

All forms of OCD involve two key components: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress. Compulsions are the behaviors or mental rituals people use to try to neutralize that distress.

In P-OCD, common obsessions include:

• Intrusive thoughts such as “Am I attracted to children?” or “What if I harmed a child?”

• Mental images or sensations involving children that feel disturbing

• Worries that you may have unknowingly acted inappropriately in the past

Compulsions can take many forms, such as:

• Seeking reassurance, either through excessive Googling or by replaying past events

• Avoiding places where children are present

• Mental rituals to ‘cancel out’ bad thoughts

• Preparing for imagined consequences like being imprisoned

These aren’t just idle worries—they’re part of a distressing cycle that reinforces OCD and leaves people feeling stuck and ashamed.

Real Treatment. Real Relief.

The gold-standard treatment for OCD, including P-OCD, is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP helps individuals face their fears gradually and safely, without turning to compulsions. he cornerstone of ERP involves developing distress tolerance, or the ability to tolerate the distress of one’s intrusive thoughts, images and sensations, without performing the compulsions that reinforce and strengthen the cycle of OCD.

With the guidance of a trained ERP therapist, you’ll:

• Build a personalized plan to confront triggers in a manageable way

• Learn how to tolerate anxiety instead of trying to eliminate it

• Develop tools to resist compulsive behaviors and break free from the OCD cycle

This isn’t about proving anything to yourself—it’s about trusting that you are more than your thoughts, and that healing is possible.

You Deserve Relief

If you’ve been silently suffering from P-OCD, it’s time to take the next step. With the right support, recovery isn’t just possible—it’s within reach. No matter how taboo or distressing the thoughts may seem, you are worthy of compassionate, evidence-based care.

Let’s break the silence, reduce the shame, and move toward a life filled with meaning—not fear.

👉 Ready to get started? Schedule a confidential consult today to meet with a clinician trained in ERP and begin your healing journey.

Protecting Access to Mental Health Care: What You Need to Know

At Ignite Counseling Colorado, we are committed to providing accessible, high-quality mental health care to our community. We understand that changes in Medicaid and ACA funding could have a significant impact on individuals and families who rely on these programs for their care.

Why This Matters

Proposed budget changes in Colorado could reduce funding for Medicaid and ACA marketplace plans, potentially limiting access to essential mental health services. Many of our clients and community members depend on these programs for therapy, medication, and crisis prevention. These cuts could also impact mental health providers, making it harder to sustain services and support the workforce that delivers care.

Research shows that mental health services help prevent emergency room visits and hospitalizations by providing early and consistent treatment. Limiting access to care doesn’t reduce healthcare costs—it shifts them elsewhere and places a greater burden on individuals and emergency services.

What You Can Do

If you are concerned about these potential changes and want to share your perspective, organizations like the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative recommend calling your legislators. Phone calls and voicemails are one of the most effective ways to make your voice heard.

Best Practices for Advocacy Calls

• Personalize the message – Share how access to care has affected you or someone you know.

• Be polite and concise – Keep your message clear and respectful.

• Leave a voicemail – If no one answers, leaving a message still counts.

Example Call Script

"Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m calling as a concerned Coloradan. I [receive care from/work with] a mental health provider that supports many individuals who rely on Medicaid and ACA marketplace plans. These proposed cuts won’t just impact those covered by Medicaid; they may also reduce access to care, affect local businesses, and increase costs for hospitals and emergency services.

I urge [Senator/Representative’s Name] to vote NO on any budget that cuts Medicaid or ACA funding. Colorado cannot afford to lose this coverage. Thank you for your time."

How to Contact Your Legislators

Find your representatives and their contact information here or visit the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative at https://cohealthinitiative.org for additional resources.

We encourage you to stay informed and engaged in the decisions that impact mental health care access in our community. Thank you for being a part of the Ignite Counseling Colorado community.

Warmly,
The Ignite Counseling Colorado Team

EMDR: A Breakthrough Approach to Healing Trauma at Ignite Counseling Colorado

For many who have experienced trauma, memories can feel like they are stuck on repeat—resurfacing unexpectedly and triggering distressing emotions, physical reactions, or even full-blown panic. At Ignite Counseling Colorado, we are committed to providing treatment that works, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is one of the most effective, research-backed approaches to healing trauma and PTSD.

Why EMDR? The Evidence Speaks for Itself

Trauma can rewire the brain, keeping distressing memories stored in a way that makes them feel immediate and overwhelming—long after the actual event has passed. EMDR has been extensively studied and is endorsed by the American Psychological Association, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the World Health Organization as an effective treatment for PTSD.

• A study found that 84-90% of single-event trauma survivors saw significant PTSD symptom reduction in just three EMDR sessions (Shapiro, 2018).

• Another study showed that 77% of combat veterans no longer met PTSD criteria after completing EMDR treatment (Carlson et al., 1998).

Unlike traditional talk therapy, which focuses on verbal processing, EMDR helps the brain reprocess trauma so it no longer holds the same emotional charge—allowing clients to regain a sense of control over their thoughts and reactions.

How Does EMDR Work? It’s More Than Just Eye Movements

EMDR is an eight-phase therapy that helps the brain reorganize how distressing memories are stored. It does this using bilateral stimulation, a process that activates both hemispheres of the brain, similar to the way the brain naturally processes information during REM sleep.

At Ignite Counseling Colorado, we personalize EMDR by offering different forms of bilateral stimulation, including:
✔️ Eye movements – Following a light bar that moves from side to side
✔️ Hand-held paddles – Vibrations alternate between the left and right hand
✔️ Audio tones – Alternating sounds delivered through headphones

This bilateral stimulation helps move distressing memories out of the "survival brain" (the amygdala) and into the logical brain (the prefrontal cortex), allowing for a more adaptive response to past experiences.

What Does EMDR Feel Like?

Many clients describe EMDR as a way to ‘unstick’ memories that have been emotionally frozen. You don’t need to rehash every painful detail—instead, the brain does the work naturally through guided stimulation. While emotions may arise during sessions, most clients report feeling lighter and more in control after processing their trauma in this way.

Healing with EMDR at Ignite Counseling Colorado

We understand that trauma isn’t just something to “get over.” It’s something to work through with the right support and treatment. At Ignite Counseling Colorado, our EMDR-trained therapists are here to help you heal in a way that feels safe, structured, and effective.

If trauma is impacting your daily life, EMDR could be the breakthrough you need. Contact us today for a free phone consultation to learn how our team can help you move forward with confidence and peace.

Navigating the Seasonal Shift: Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Finding the Right Therapist

As the seasons change and we transition from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn (and eventually winter), many individuals may notice changes in their mood and energy levels. For some, this shift can trigger a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In this blog post, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms of SAD, as well as how to find a therapist who can help you manage this seasonal challenge.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. While it can affect anyone, it’s more common in individuals who live in northern latitudes or areas with less sunlight during the winter. It’s more than just the "winter blues"; SAD is a recognized mental health condition that can significantly impact your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

Why Does SAD Occur?

The exact cause of SAD isn’t fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

1. Light Exposure: Reduced exposure to sunlight during the fall and winter months can disrupt your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and affect the production of serotonin and melatonin, which regulate mood and sleep.

2. Genetic Factors: A family history of depression or mood disorders may increase the likelihood of developing SAD.

3. Biological Rhythms: Changes in seasonal light can influence hormone levels, which may impact mood regulation.

Signs and Symptoms of SAD

Recognizing the signs of SAD is the first step in seeking help. Common symptoms include:

1. Persistent Low Mood: Feelings of sadness or hopelessness that last for most of the day, nearly every day.

2. Fatigue and Low Energy: A noticeable decrease in energy levels, often leading to increased sleepiness and lethargy.

3. Changes in Sleep Patterns: Difficulty waking up in the morning, sleeping more than usual, or experiencing disrupted sleep.

4. Changes in Appetite: Individuals with SAD may experience shifts in appetite, often leading to cravings for carbohydrates or sugary foods as a way to cope with their mood changes.

5. Loss of Interest: A decreased interest in activities you once enjoyed, leading to social withdrawal and isolation.

6. Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks, making decisions, or completing daily responsibilities.

7. Irritability and Anxiety: Increased feelings of irritability, anxiety, or restlessness.

Common Ways to Treat SAD

Fortunately, several approaches can help manage SAD symptoms:

1. Seek Support: Reach out to your support system, including friends, family, and loved ones. Sharing your feelings can foster connection and understanding.

2. Consult a Physician: If you notice persistent symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can provide guidance on potential treatments and referrals.

3. Mental Health Support: If you don’t already have a mental health professional, consider seeking one. Therapy can offer valuable strategies and support tailored to your needs. Contact Ignite for a free phone consultation with one of our skilled, compassionate therapists.

As the seasons change, it’s essential to be aware of how this shift may affect your mental health. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can empower you to take proactive steps to care for yourself. Whether it’s through staying active, or seeking professional support, you don’t have to navigate this seasonal challenge alone.

If you or someone you know is struggling with SAD, remember that help is available. By embracing the change of seasons with awareness and self-care, you can foster resilience and well-being, no matter the time of year.

Can I talk about politics in therapy?

By Missy Larson, MA,  LPCC

In a word, yes.

Americans are in a time of divisive and passionate politics. How a person thinks about politics is frequently part of their identity and helps the therapist understand their client’s worldview. In addition, the American Psychological Association conducted a survey in September 2020 that found that the presidential election was a source of stress for 68 % of Americans. Therapists want to understand the stressors impacting your quality of life. Uncertainty and a lack of ability to change things can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression.

What can you expect from your therapist when discussing politics? Therapists enter the counseling room with a goal of complete acceptance of who you are as the client. Your therapist will likely validate your feelings as they do on any topic you bring to counseling. However, expect your therapist to refrain from getting into a discussion or debate about candidates or policy. Instead, your therapist will get curious about what emotions come up for you when you discuss or read about politics and how these emotions impact your daily life. Ask yourself, “How does this election make me feel?”

When approaching your therapist with political stress, think about how you want to change your life regarding politics.

Do you want to step back and become less invested? Do you want to immerse yourself in causes important to you to allow you to feel less powerless? Do you want to build acceptance around our political climate so you don’t become so “triggered?”

Sometimes, politics can compound trauma that historically marginalized communities have experienced due to government policy. Processing your experience and addressing this trauma may be needed.

You and your therapist can work together to try to mitigate the impact of politics on your mental health. Alleviating political stress may mean limiting news intake, recognizing the bodily response of your body to stress, and engaging in activities or advocacy that align with your values. Engaging in political “news” releases cortisol, a stress hormone. When stress hormones are activated, our prefrontal cortex (our logical reasoning part of the brain)  goes offline, and our amygdala (the brain's emotion center) takes over. Sometimes, our emotional response to news can lead to an addiction to constant news consumption to try to alleviate our anxiety (doom scrolling). The body has mechanisms in place to handle acute and episodic stress. Still, a 24-hour news stream designed to trigger your emotions can lead to more chronic stress, which is not healthy and can generally impact your mental and physical health.

Do therapists care about politics? As much as any other person. But in the counseling room, we are caring about you.

Missy Larson is currently accepting new counseling clients! Click here to read Missy’s bio and schedule a free phone consultation to ensure a great fit.

What I'm Reading Now - The Happiness Trap

~by Heather Scott MA Counseling Candidate, Intern Therapist at Ignite

What I am reading right now: The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living, by Russ Harris.

As a counselor in training, I recently realized the importance of grounding myself in a specific psychotherapeutic theory. I had been jumping from one theory to another and noticed that many therapies have similar approaches. However, I knew I would be more effective if I chose one to focus on. This would help me better conceptualize client cases and provide me with a toolbox of action-oriented skills to share with my clients.

I decided that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence-based method, would be a good fit for my style and began exploring it by reading "The Happiness Trap." This book is full of practical exercises and techniques that readers can incorporate into their lives to find more peace and contentment.

ACT challenges the common belief that happiness is the norm and that something is wrong with us if we are not happy. The goal of ACT is not to eliminate difficult feelings, as this has been shown to be harmful and nearly impossible. Instead, it focuses on accepting challenging emotions and thoughts and learning how to live a more meaningful life.

"The Happiness Trap" contains many exercises that help individuals create space between themselves and their thoughts and feelings.

One example is the technique called Dropping Anchor. This technique teaches you to notice and name your feelings and thoughts while staying present, preventing you from getting "hooked" into a story or belief.

Other exercises involve engaging with thoughts and feelings through images, such as seeing them as characters in a play or leaves on a stream.

A foundational belief in ACT is that humans are hardwired to avoid painful experiences. However, avoiding difficult thoughts or feelings only makes matters worse. Through avoidance, we end up struggling with or obeying our thoughts and feelings, creating more difficulties in the process.

This book is not just a tool for therapists; it is accessible to anyone seeking skills to help with everyday life. Additionally, the website thehappinesstrap.com provides helpful, free resources.

What is Ketamine Therapy and How Does it Work?

By Natalie Pascale, LPCC

Some of our clients struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues turn to licensed providers to assist with ketamine therapy for relief of their symptoms. This is often in supplementation to regularly prescribed medication.

In this blog, we’ll explore what ketamine is, how it works in the brain, and when safely prescribed and administered by a licensed provider, in conjunction with Ketamine Integration Therapy, how ketamine can provide an opportunity for lasting and meaningful positive change. 

What is Ketamine?

The synthetic dissociative compound ketamine has been used in human and veterinary medicine for decades. In 1962 it was derived from phencyclidine in order to create a safer anesthetic, with fewer negative respiratory and hallucinogenic impacts. In 1970 the FDA approved the use of ketamine on humans. 

At larger doses, ketamine has been used within the medical field to induce and maintain anesthesia. The low risk of respiratory depression during anesthesia has contributed to ketamine’s wide use during surgery. At lower doses, ketamine has also been employed as an analgesic, or pain reliever. It has been a particularly useful alternative to opioids.

Ketamine’s antidepressant effects became acknowledged by the medical community in the late 1990s. In 2019 the FDA approved the use of ketamine in the treatment of depression, namely treatment resistant depression and major depressive disorder. Since then, low doses of ketamine are widely administered as a rapid-acting antidepressant. Additionally, research shows that ketamine may be effective in treating anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and substance abuse.

How Does it Work?

Ketamine is unique due to the rapidity with which it has the potential to ignite lasting change. Almost immediately after dosage, ketamine’s antidepressant impacts can be felt. However, the mechanism of action, although increasingly studied, is as complex as the state and cause of depression itself. 

Ketamine often gets grouped into other psychedelics utilized in the treatment of various mental illnesses, as the term psychedelic simply refers to any “mind-manifesting” compound or experience that brings about altered perceptions of oneself. From a psychological perspective, ketamine may induce non-ordinary state experiences such as ego dissolution, mystical experiences, “oneness”, and a disruption in normal consciousness. This can be particularly helpful if negative thinking patterns are a primary contributor to one’ mental health struggles. 

The Neuroscience of Ketamine Therapy

In general, Ketamine activates certain neurotransmitter receptors and pathways, which trigger rapid growth of new neurological connections. Some researchers believe that prolonged exposure to stress causes neurons to die off, resulting in depression, but Katmine causes them to re-grow within hours, relieving the depressive symptoms. Studies show that ketamine disconnects many synapses within minutes, and the affected neurons reattach new synapses over the following few hours or days. 

Ketamine is a part of a class of pharmaceutical drugs called arylcyclohexylamines. Arylcyclohexylamines were originally developed as anesthetics and are unique for not entirely extinguishing consciousness, but instead appear to “disassociate” mind from body, hence the term “dissociative anesthetic”. Arylcyclohexylamines primarily block the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in the brain, which is a target for neurotransmitter glutamate, and prevent the NMDA receptor from being activated by glutamate. Glutamate is one of the most prominent neurotransmitters in the brain and regulates large regions of the nervous system. Overactivation of glutamate receptors may lead to long-term depression, and Ketamine works by blocking these receptors.

Ketamine therapy often requires repeated sessions every few weeks or months, and occasionally “maintenance sessions”, which, in combination with talk therapy, can work to enhance and maintain new synapses and ultimately can lead to more adaptive ways of thinking and relating to oneself and the world. 

Ketamine and Psychotherapy: Integration

Ensuring that new synaptic connections are maintained for lasting increased wellbeing, it is particularly important to engage in integration after Ketamine therapy. The sessions that follow the psychedelic therapy stage, also known as the “integration” phase, are important in helping individuals interpret experiences, emotions, or memories, make meaning out of experiences, and foster therapeutic change. Additionally, integration sessions may involve translating insights into meaningful and lasting change, such as developing new personal practices, coping skills, or social strategies. Studies have shown that individuals who received greater support after psychedelic therapy had greater positive behavioral changes. 

Providing a safe space for Ketamine integration aligns with Ignite’s whole-hearted approach to counseling. As clinicians, we are dedicated to meeting our clients where they are, and providing them with a unique and compassionate experience.

With the legalization of Ketamine therapy in Colorado, Ignite is working to fill a much-needed void of psychotherapeutic support, and providing a space for group work further de-stigmatizes what it is to be human through connection. Be sure to check out our brief video on KIT at Ignite!

Ketamine therapy is a relatively new tool which may provide relief from depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Contact us for a free phone consultation, to ensure great fit, for Ketamine Integration Therapy! Click here to submit an Interest Form to our Client Care Specialist or call 303-578-6336 for additional information and learn more about our trusted ketamine prescriber referral.