Compulsive Conditions: Understanding the Urge to Repeat

Many people find themselves doing something again and again, even when they’ve promised themselves they wouldn’t. Whether it’s checking, buying, lying, or hair pulling, compulsions can bring brief relief followed by guilt or frustration. It can feel confusing: “Why can’t I stop, even when I know better?”

At Bayside Psychotherapy, we help people understand what drives their compulsive behaviour so real change becomes possible. Our Melbourne based therapists use a flexible suite of psychotherapy, CBT, hypnotherapy and mindfulness-based approaches. Together we explore both the thoughts and the deeper emotional needs behind the behaviour.

Sessions are available in person at our Highett clinic or online.

Understanding Compulsions

Compulsions aren’t simply bad habits or lapses in discipline. They often begin as ways to manage distress, providing transitory comfort, distraction or a sense of control. Over time, they can take over, creating shame, secrecy and a feeling of being trapped.

Psychotherapy helps you look beneath the surface to uncover what the behaviour is protecting you from. Instead of focusing only on stopping the compulsion, we work toward understanding its purpose, easing the underlying tension and finding healthier ways to cope.

Approaches to Treatment

Because every person’s experience is different, treatment may involve several methods:

• Psychodynamic psychotherapy to explore emotional causes and patterns

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to understand and interrupt automatic thoughts

• Hypnotherapy to reduce urges and strengthen focus and control

• Mindfulness-based techniques to increase awareness and regulate stress

Some clients benefit from practical tools early on, while others prefer deeper exploration. We adjust the pace and approach to suit your goals.

What You Can Expect

We provide a confidential, non-judgemental space to explore what keeps the cycle going and what life might look like without it. Therapy is collaborative; we’ll help you build understanding, self-awareness and the capacity to make different choices when urges arise.

You can attend sessions face-to-face in Highett or online from anywhere in Australia. If appropriate, your therapist can also work alongside your GP or psychiatrist.

A Note About Change

Lasting change rarely happens through force or shame. It begins with curiosity and asking why the behaviour is there, and what it might be saying. Through therapy, many clients find that as understanding deepens, the grip of the compulsion naturally begins to loosen.

Taking the First Step

If you’re tired of the cycle and want to explore what sits underneath it, we’re here to help.
Call 03 9557 9113 during reception hours or book a confidential appointment to begin the process of understanding your compulsions and finding steadier ground.

Common Compulsive Conditions We Support

You can explore more about each issue by visiting the pages below.