testimonials
Patients experiences of our OCD Group Programme - in their own words
"I found the Asto Clinics OCD treatment course very useful and engaging. The format was excellent for the purpose.
The lead - Dr Papageorgiou - was knowledgeable and patient, and the assistant, Karen, was very helpful in addressing my questions and following up on the homework. This support was invaluable in helping me practice the concepts discussed throughout the 12 sessions. Additionally, the support from the entire team was excellent.
The process of requesting support, getting diagnosed, and finally being enrolled in the next available course was smooth and efficient, with the team keeping me well-informed throughout.
I highly recommend the Asto Clinics treatment course to anyone struggling with OCD."
Anonymous
24th September 2024
When OCD suddenly took hold of my life at the start of my final year at university, Asto gave me it back. The flood of constant intrusive thoughts, obsessions and compulsions had utterly taken over my life, and when I found Asto in February, I was on the verge of dropping out of my degree and the career I had worked three years to achieve. I had no confidence or sense of self, and my NHS referral for treatment was due to take many months.
The programme being at a set time online was really convenient for me, as it meant I could book time off for treatment in advance and miss minimal teaching or placement. It also helped me to feel more comfortable in my own environment. I was daunted by the prospect of being in a group; however, I found it highly beneficial. Being among others who also struggled with OCD helped me to feel less alone, and completing the course together helped to motivate me to continue to make progress during treatment. We also continue to support each other after finishing the course.
From my first contact with Sue to my first treatment session was very timely, and the pathway to starting the programme helped me to understand what to expect from treatment and learn about my OCD. Being diagnosed with OCD was the first step in my recovery, Dr Costas Papageorgiou gave me the confidence that I could overcome it whilst also recognising the extent of the effect OCD had on my life. The whole team was fantastic, and I felt fully supported throughout my journey. It was really helpful to hear Karen’s experience as someone who has overcome OCD, as this gave me faith that I could also overcome it.
The sessions were engaging and full of information, and Costas and Karen were always more than happy to answer any questions, no matter how silly I thought they were. I received my referral for NHS treatment on the last week of the programme, and I felt so incredibly grateful that Asto had given me the opportunity to overcome my OCD before I would’ve even started treatment otherwise.
I would highly recommend the programme to anyone struggling with OCD as something that can and will change your life if you put the work in and trust in the expertise of the team. OCD recovery is hard, but there’s nothing harder than living with it, so I would encourage anyone considering it to take the plunge and give it their all.
Grace
24th July 2024
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
The OCD programme being online was great because I could take part from the comfort of my own home. It was very convenient.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
I found it reassuring being in a group because I didn't feel on my own with my OCD. We were all very supportive of each other.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
Getting onto the programme was very straightforward and the team made it all run very smoothly.
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
The team were excellent - so understanding and helpful. Costas and Karen were brilliant.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
Don't be afraid in joining the programme. You learn so much about yourself and the condition.
“What would have been particularly helpful for you to have read in a testimonial on our website when deciding about participating in our programme.”
Reading about somebody having the same issues as myself and coming through the other side would be helpful
Tony
12th July 2024
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
I found the online sessions really helpful and convenient.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
I was unsure about being in a group session at first, but as soon as I started I realised that it was beneficial, as you could hear other peoples stories, relate to them and notice similar thinking patterns.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
My therapist had recommended I try and join the programme as she had heard about the results. The process was really straightforward!
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
Costas and Karen were amazing! It was so good having an OCD specialist and someone who has been through the programme and is now able to help others, as you know they can relate and understand what you are going through.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
It is a process and something you have to want, and be able to put in the work.
“What would have been particularly helpful for you to have read in a testimonial on our website when deciding about participating in our programme.”
Don’t be put off about doing an online course in a group, you are all suffering with OCD and you can get help, as long as you are willing to put the work in. If you are considering getting treatment for your OCD, go for it!
Amelia
12th July 2024
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
Before I was unsure, but after the first session went well, it was good, easier and more accessible, as no travel required.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
Good, actually doing as a group was very effective as we all supported and encouraged each other.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
Fairly easy, efficient and effective.
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
Great team. Costas is well qualified and experienced and having another person who recovered from OCD was reassuring and encouraging.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
Take notes as you do each session, and re-write them after, it helps you to memorise and review, and you have a record if you need to review again after. Also get treatment from an OCD specialist, many therapist have CBT training, but are not specifically specialised in OCD. They can be helpful but an OCD specialist is more effective.
“What would have been particularly helpful for you to have read in a testimonial on our website when deciding about participating in our programme.”
I didn’t see the testimonials site but watched a YouTube video from Steve Turnock who had gone through the treatment, which encouraged me to attend.
Anonymous
27th June 2024
Where do I start? As cliché as it sounds, Asto changed my life, and gave me back my peace of mind.
I was diagnosed with PTSD 14 years ago. I had various therapies including talking therapy and EMDR which provided periods of light relief in between living my life day to day in fear of death. I had physical symptoms of anxiety daily, my sleep was interrupted and I was haunted by intrusive thoughts of death, both my own and those of my loved ones. At one point I was so bad, I had to give up my home, move back to my parents and give up driving. Every time I got behind the wheel of a car I would see dead bodies in the road. I lost all of my confidence and despite having an amazing family and friends sunk in to a state of depression and anxiety which would go on to last for over a decade.
In 2022 I had a massive relapse. I had a meltdown at work and was referred to the occupational health department. Again I was diagnosed and treated for PTSD. In December 2023 I was finally referred to a Consultant Psychologist who after speaking to me for 10 minutes told me he thought I had OCD. I was shocked and in disbelief, as knew I had an obsessive nature, but due to not having any physical compulsions such as washing hands etc, I didn't think it was something that affected me. This individual gave me the name of Asto, and that was when my recovery began.
I contacted Asto somewhat reluctantly as I didn't have any confidence in the diagnosis of OCD, but I was so desperate I was prepared to try anything. After liaising with Sue, I was sent a couple of assessment tasks to complete and then I had an online chat with Costas. I remember that day sat in my car in a hotel car park and crying wondering if my life would ever get better. I had everything, a loving partner, amazing parents and a beautiful son and yet I felt so scared, depressed and alone.
After speaking with Costas, he too said he believed I had OCD, and a few weeks later I started the programme.
Week by week I learnt the theory behind the condition in our Tuesday sessions, as well as reading the book "Overcoming OCD", and doing my homework. I felt lighter within a matter of weeks, and knew by week 7 I was getting better. Everything just made sense and I was able to put the recovery techniques in to practice. When I had my final assessment with Costas he said I had gone from having moderate to severe OCD symptoms to symptoms that were negligible.
I still fear death to a degree but I am now living my life for the first time in years. I have resigned from my job, and have the courage to embrace the next chapter of my life. I am happier and finally feel virtually free of the black cloud that had plagued my life for so long.
I can never repay Asto, Sue, Costas and Karen, for the help and support they have given me. I never believed that anything would make me better and here I am virtually symptom free. Thank you so much for giving me my life back.
Anonymous
8th May 2024
I was diagnosed with OCD four years ago, I genuinely thought my life was over and i’d never find happiness again. I was stuck in my own head with horrifying intrusive thoughts that I could not escape 24/7 and spent some time in a psychiatric hospital. I had seen several therapists, one who told me i was an enigma which made me feel more hopeless than I ever had.
My biggest compulsion was googling my symptoms, I spent 4 years looking for success stories of people who had recovered and were living their lives again. eventually I found a podcast that featured Dr Papageorgiou and Steve being interviewed by a previous client and i knew that there was still a glimmer of hope. I rang the clinic that day, Sue did everything she could to support me through the process, I was assessed by Dr Papageorgiou and got onto the programme.
I thought i knew everything there was to know about OCD and had tried every trick in the book, I was so wrong! Over the 12 weeks I learnt so many valuable things that I will always have with me. I worked hard and completed all my homework which is key. I had ups and downs in the beginning but the downs started to become easier to manage with the tools I had learnt.
Towards the end of the programme I was assessed again, and my OCD was in the mild range, something I never thought was possible. I continue to use my tools, and have made more progress since the program ended. I no longer fear OCD, as this 12 weeks has turned my life around, and I’m ready should it rear its ugly head again. I’m super grateful to everyone at the asto clinic, the work you do is amazing, thank you so much for all your help and support. No more
googling, I now have the answers!
Once again, thank you all for everything
Justine
8th May 2024
The specialised therapy I received from Asto Clinics without exaggeration has changed my life.
Having been struggling with OCD from the age of 7 I’ve seen therapists, psychiatrists and psychologists and never really got anywhere in resolving the issues long term.
It was always a quick fix and never a long term solution.
In fact, the therapy with Asto was opposite from the therapy I’d done before. Asto clinics made me sit with the anxiety driving thoughts and compulsions, and gave me techniques to overcome the sometimes disabling thoughts and magical thinking I had.
Early on in the therapy I thought it wasn’t for me as I’d had the disorder for so long I felt I’d been through all this before. The key break through came when I was set into a smaller group from the main group, with two amazing women and we helped each other through our struggles. These two made me realise I wasn’t thick or broken like I’d grown up thinking, they are clever highly successful women and we encouraged each other through our therapy.
We still speak now and try to meet as much as possible.
I still have OCD but it’s a mild case rather than chronic. I still have bad occasions but they are just that rather than being days, weeks and sometimes months, which had led to bouts of severe depression which would make me have thoughts of not wanting to be around anymore.
I wish this was around when I was young as my childhood could have been much happier but I’m so grateful I got the help now as it’s been such a positive step.
I can’t thank Asto Clinics enough.
Scott
28th March 2024
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
This worked really well and fitted in with my busy schedule.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
I think it worked really well as I felt supported by my peers and we could discuss our recovery and what worked and didn’t work without reassuring each other regarding our ocd.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
It was fine, I came via The Priory and an initial consultation with Costas.
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
Very understanding and supportive, I was able to be open about my condition.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
I think hand outs prior to the session would be beneficial .
“What would have been particularly helpful for you to have read in a testimonial on our website when deciding about participating in our programme?”
Others experiences.
Kerrie
26th March 2024
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
The OCD programme online, although perhaps didn’t have the same emotional connection as face-to-face, was much more practical to fit into a busy life, so upon reflection was really a blessing.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
The therapy in a group session worked well because sharing the nature of one’s experiences was a cathartic process.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
The pathway to starting the programme was perfectly streamlined and stress free.
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
The nature of the team was perfectly professional, compassionate yet objective, and industry leading in experience.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
As it’s made clear during course, it only helpful if you’re in a position to help yourself.
“What would have been particularly helpful for you to have read in a testimonial on our website when deciding about participating in our programme?”
The reassurance that the vast spectrum of OCD manifestations have a consistent foundation, and therefore can be tackled systematically.
Jonathan
19th March 2024
"When I first referred myself to the ASTO Clinic my life was at a stand still. I was struggling to work, function and maintain relationships. My OCD was taking over my life and fear ruled me of every minute of my day. My first session online was liberating as I found peers that had the same struggles as me. Our group of people have experienced EVERY theme. I quickly learnt that the theme didn't matter, what matter had been my reaction to my thoughts. I could change. The group work helped me share with peers and it felt less intensive and we all shared "Eurica” moments together. I felt supported from the first moment I reached out to ASTO and made my first telephone call with the wonderful Sue. I experienced support from our first interaction. Having Karen co facilitate our group was helpful as someone who had received and shared similar experiences to how we were all thinking.
Please know you are not your thoughts. You wont believe this yet, but all humans have the thoughts that we experience. The main difference is we are distressed and most people without our condition simply move on from them and place no importance on their thoughts. That is the key to recovering from our condition, OUR response to our thoughts. I live a good life and am a CEO looking to change the way mental health services are delivered to be more assessable to all.
Believe in the programme. It works!”
Mike Graham
CEO of a large Mental Health Charity
12th March 2024
I found that the programme worked very well online and it made it easy timewise to attend for everyone This was the first time I had done group therapy and wasn't sure how it would work but I loved it. It was a great, supportive group of people and it was so good to meet and talk to others suffering from OCD.
It was very quick and easy to speak to Sue and then meet Costas online and the onboarding went very smoothly and quickly.
The team were very respectful, understanding and supportive and Costas and Karen were amazing. I now miss the sessions now that they are finished. The 12 week programme has helped me. My OCD is significantly reduced and I feel so much better. I would highly recommend this programme.
Anonymous
7th March 2024
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
It was great to be able to juggle work and the therapy, I don't think I would be able to participate in the therapy if it was to be in a F2F scenario, I wouldn't have time to commute and go to work.
“How was the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
I loved it. I have done group therapy before and I love the 'we are in this together' mindset. The group was nothing but supportive. It was so interesting to hear other people's perspectives.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
It was very easy, meeting with Costas was great and it was so relieving to actually speak to someone so knowledgeable about the topic.
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
The team was so supportive. Everyone I dealt with was simply amazing.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
I came to the programm thinking 'This won't work, what I have is so different from the standard OCD'. I was wrong. All it takes is a lot of hard work. I really did commit to doing the homework (2 hours per day) and I can see my life is almost back to normal. I still have the occasional thoughts but I don't believe they are true anymore.
“What would have been particularly helpful for you to have read in a testimonial on our website when deciding about participating in our programme.”
It is no brainer - the programme works. After trying different techniques, speaking to various psychotherapists, some of whom did more harm than help, it was the programme that made the most impact in my life.
Paulina
16th January 2024
Katy sent a covering e-mail with her testimonial, we wanted to share that too.
“I can't believe it has already been nearly a month since I completed the programme with Asto Clinics. I just wanted to email to thank you all for your kindness, support and help.
This programme has changed my life, and has allowed me to get back to 'myself' and enjoy life again. Before starting the programme I really couldn't see how I could ever get over my OCD, it was getting worse and worse and I thought I would have to live with it forever. I am still working towards becoming completely 'OCD free' but I am in a better place than I could have ever imagined, compared to how I felt at the start of the year.
I have been able to enjoy driving again, get back to work and have so much more energy to do all these things.
I will be forever grateful to you all and to Asto Clinics.”
This is her testimonial.
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
I was initially concerned about the programme being online, as I wasn’t used to using Zoom and was extremely anxious at that point, however it worked really well online and I enjoyed being able to complete the sessions from my own home.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
Completing the therapy in a group made me feel less alone and it was reassuring to know other people felt how I did. It was a safe space, where you could share with the whole group, and a smaller group, which was an amazing opportunity to be able to speak to people who understand how you feel.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
It was a very smooth process, with support along the way whenever needed. I’m so glad I found this programme when I did.
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
Everyone I came into contact with at Asto Clinics were amazing. I found everyone very helpful, respectful and supportive. It felt like everyone wanted you to succeed and overcome your OCD.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
I am so glad I found this programme, faced my fears of doing group sessions and have the skills I learnt during it for the rest of my life.
I thought my OCD was something I would have to live with, and would never be unable to ‘undo’ it. I am so grateful to this programme and all the staff for helping me get my life back.
Katy
29th October 2023
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
The OCD programme worked well online. I found the OCD programme very well organised by well OCD knowledgeable people who listen and care about the OCD programme and the difference it makes to people’s lives and nothing was too much for the OCD programme when you’re needing help with your OCD questions.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
I didn’t know what to expect from the OCD programme, but I thought it was better working in a group because it showed that OCD is very common, also through listening to other people’s OCD it made you listen to different types of OCD, but also show that OCD is still the same.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
I didn’t know if I was going to be picked for the OCD programme, but when I knew ,everything was very well presented and organised.
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
I felt more than happy with the OCD team when addressing my needs.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
Comments for future OCD patients is if you want to reclaim your life back from OCD this is the place you need to go, the people at the OCD programme are knowledgeable, helpful, caring, and listen to your OCD questions. Out of 10,1 being not very helpful and 10 couldn’t help enough, it’s definitely a 10.
I think depending on how bad your OCD is, you could be concerned about starting a OCD programme, but through completing the OCD course I can’t speak highly enough of the OCD programme and I guarantee you will get better with your OCD.
Levi
18th October 2023
Even though Vinny didn’t attend our programme as he found a private therapist to work with, we thought it useful to share his experience with us.
“I wanted to let you know that I have found a therapist who I'm hoping will be able to help me. The opportunity to work with this therapist may not come so readily in the future, so after much deliberation I don't think it's fair for me to pursue both avenues simultaneously and deprive someone else of access to your service.
I have to add though, from a personal perspective, just how important a role your charity is playing. To receive that phone call from you at a time when you are feeling isolated, overwhelmed and misunderstood - I don't think a price can be put on that. The compassion, understanding and most importantly, hope, you provide to people is immense.
So thank you so much for the offer, but at this point in time I would like to withdraw my application to the programme.
Thanks again and keep up the brilliant work.”
Vinny
18th May 2023
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
It far exceeded my expectations. I felt that with it being online it might lack a personal touch, however I was wrong. It was everything you would receive in a 1-1 programme but with the convenience and comfort of being at home.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
From the first session there was a sense of community and it was a judgement free space where everyone could share as much or as little as they liked. This taught me far more about OCD than a 1-1 session would have.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
Very smooth! I just wish I started the programme sooner!
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
Incredibly supportive and empathetic. It completely felt like a judgement free zone where I could ask any question without hesitation. The whole team truly couldn’t have done more to put me at ease.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
If you are unsure as to whether the programme is for you, I’d recommend speaking with the team! They’re not for profit, their only desire is to help you and that is clear from the first conversation. If you would have told me a year ago I’d be where I am now, I wouldn’t have believed it. Don’t expect to be OCD free over night, it takes time to learn and employ the techniques they teach you but its completely worth it! The team supports you to become your own therapist by teaching you about your own OCD and how you can overcome it so that you can live the life you want to live.
Andy
9th May 2023
I would definitely recommend your online programme, sincerely very grateful for the help I have received for my OCD. Clearly, very helpful, friendly staff , very understanding in all themes of OCD. Excellent knowledge of the illness and give plenty of encouragement . I truly recommend participating in this programme .
Jo H
28th April 2023
This online programme for OCD is very well structured and organised and very professional.
You do it in a group setting and interact with other people who have OCD, which is helpful, under the supervision of a highly qualified clinical psychologist.
The pre course assessment is very thorough and confidential and the outline for the programme is made very clear. It consists of 12 weeks of online CBT which is aimed at equipping you with the skills to be your own therapist. It is highly dependent on you doing homework exercises and lasts for 12 weeks, each week building on the last.
I would recommend it to anyone suffering with OCD.
Anonymous
31st January 2023
In the summer of 2022 my life stopped. I was frightened, confused and I felt so alone. I thought I was a monster and that something terrible was happening to me. I couldn’t go on any longer with the horrible thoughts constantly running through my mind but I was afraid of what would happen to me if I told anyone. The thoughts became so unbearable that I was afraid to do anything and I could no longer go to work or leave the house. All my daily tasks became nightmares to complete and I could barely get out of bed in the morning.
Eventually, I sought help from my doctor and was told there would be a long waiting list for any cognitive behavioural therapy. I could not wait any longer as I was just so lost and afraid. Then I came across Asto clinics when searching for help on an OCD charity webpage. After, reading all of the information and reading the stories from Steve and Karen, I instantly knew that Asto might be able to help me.
I nervously contacted the clinic and was provided with support from Sue who answered all of my queries and made me feel safe and hopeful that I could get help.
Following an initial 1-1 assessment with Dr Costas Papageorgiou, to ensure the course would be suitable for me, I was invited to join the course. A few weeks later I received a copy of the book ‘Overcoming Obsessive Compulsive Disorder’, used as a reference throughout the course and a handwritten note from Sue that instantly made me feel welcome and that there were people who could help me overcome the pain I was going through.
The course involved a two hour meeting over zoom once a week for 12 weeks. I was nervous about being in a group setting over Zoom but meeting ten other people who were also suffering with OCD helped me to realise I was not alone and that I was not going crazy. Having the opportunity to talk to the other people on the course allowed us to share our experiences and discuss how we had got on over the week with trying out the techniques we had learnt.
Joining the course was the best decision I ever made! Dr Papageorgiou is an amazing therapist and the help he provided saved my life. The techniques I have learnt will stay with me forever. I still have a way to go with defeating the OCD bully, but since completing the course I have been able to get my life back and have since returned to work.
I will forever be grateful for the help Costas, Karen, Sue and Steve have provided. They were the light at the end of a very dark tunnel. My advice for anyone who is considering enrolling onto the course would be to go for it! I would definitely recommend this course to anyone suffering with OCD.
Claire
24th January 2023
I have recently completed the 12 week OCD treatment programme with Dr Papageorgiou. I have suffered with OCD for as long as I can remember and have seen several therapists in the past (non OCD specialists) and I unfortunately didn’t make any progress with my OCD. I also suffer with anxiety and since being on the course I understand they go hand in hand and exacerbate one another.
I have found the course extremely helpful and have indeed become my own therapist- the techniques I have learnt from this course will certainly stay with me for life! I am not “OCD free” yet but I have made a HUGE improvement and truly believe if I continue to work hard to defeat the OCD bully I will.
The support, techniques, education/theory, and facts about OCD have been amazing.
Thank you so much Costas, Steve, Karen, Sue and team!
Anna
8th January 2023
“How did you find the OCD programme being online?”
I found the OCD programme being online at my convenience and a good opportunity to relate to other people all around the UK. It was useful that we could split off into breakout rooms as well as one to one support with ease. It created a dynamic method to share what we have learnt.
“How was doing the therapy in a group, as opposed to one to one?”
Doing therapy in a group helped create a sense of community and connection to the struggles we were all facing. It made me feel like I wasn’t alone in what I was experiencing, and it was a way to support each other if we ran through any hurdles. I found this group a safe and accepting environment to progress in.
“How was the pathway to eventually starting the programme?”
When contacting Asto Clinics the programme coordinator (Sue) helped in answering any questions I had about the course and gave me some questionnaires to fill in that made me reflect on my experiences at the time. I had to wait a few weeks to start the programme since first enquiring. They kept me updated consistently through calls and emails.
“How did you find the nature of our team in respect of understanding your needs?”
The nature of the team was very compassionate and well versed in accommodating to my needs. If I had a question or needed further understanding they helped with no judgement. I really appreciate their encouragement and it felt like they truly believed in me that I could progress together with the group.
“Do you have any other comments that future patients may find helpful?”
If you are struggling with OCD and are thinking of starting this programme, I’d highly recommend it. You are taken step by step at a steady pace to improve your way of thinking and approaching what you are struggling with.
“What would have been particularly helpful for you to have read in a testimonial on our website when deciding about participating in our programme.”
All was explained well and clear on the website.
Daniella
1st December 2022