Frequently asked questions

What is OCDly?

OCDly is an OCD recovery companion app. It helps people practice evidence-based OCD management through structured ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), practical CBT tools, and real-time support, with guidance for the moments that matter, whether you're facing an intrusive thought, resisting a compulsion, or planning your next exposure.

What makes OCDly different from other mental health apps?

Many mental health apps offer relaxation exercises or journals. OCDly is built specifically around evidence-based OCD treatment, combining ERP, CBT, real-time coping tools, structured exposures, and progress tracking into a single experience. It emphasizes guided action over information, supports you before, during, and after exposures, and is designed to help you practice consistently over time.

What tools are inside OCDly?

A Challenge Ladder to face fears one step at a time; Anchor tools for in-the-moment support (Sensory Grounding, Guided Breathing, Sensory Reset 5-4-3-2-1, Think in Categories); an ERP Hub for guided exposure practice; Situational Exposure planning; Cognitive Labeling; a CBT Worksheet; an Exposure Vault; and progress tools including Journal, Compass, and Insights, plus a daily "A Note for You" message.

Who can use OCDly?

OCDly is designed for people who want structured, practical support for managing OCD, including those already working with a therapist and those building a consistent self-practice. It supports the work of recovery step by step, but it is not a diagnostic tool and is not a substitute for professional evaluation.

Do I need an OCD diagnosis to use OCDly?

OCDly is built to support people working on OCD-related patterns, but it doesn't diagnose any condition. If you're unsure whether you're dealing with OCD, we encourage speaking with a qualified mental health professional.

How do I track my progress?

Two ways. Compass lets you record a baseline assessment, monthly check-ins, and your OCD history, and export a PDF summary. Insights visualizes your progress across 1-, 7-, 30-, and 90-day views, surfacing patterns in tool usage, ERP consistency, compulsion resistance, and anxiety trends over time.

What is ERP, and how does the ERP Hub work?

ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) is a leading evidence-based approach for OCD: gradually facing what triggers anxiety while resisting the compulsions that usually follow. The ERP Hub is a guided workspace that helps you delay, reduce, or resist compulsions, stay with anxiety, practice uncertainty, plan exposures, and reflect after each session, so every practice has a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Is OCDly a replacement for therapy?

No. OCDly is built to complement professional care, not replace it. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a qualified mental health professional.

How does OCDly support therapy sessions?

Recovery depends on consistent practice between sessions. OCDly helps turn intention into repeated action, guiding structured ERP, capturing reflections, and tracking progress you can review with your therapist. Compass summaries export as a PDF you can share directly with a healthcare professional, so your sessions can focus on what's most useful.

Can therapists or clinics use OCDly with clients?

Yes, clients can share exportable Compass PDF summaries with their provider to support continuity of care. If you'd like to bring OCDly to your clinic or practice, reach out through the Contact page.

Is my data private?

Privacy is built in. For example, the Exposure Vault stores exposure images encrypted locally on your own device with a built-in three-view limit and they're never uploaded to the cloud, so you can practice accepting uncertainty without repeated reassurance checking.

What should I do in a crisis?

OCDly is a practice and support tool, not an emergency service. If you're in crisis or may be at risk of harming yourself, please contact your local emergency services or a crisis line in your area right away, and reach out to a qualified professional.