Introduction: When it comes to managing anxiety and OCD, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. At The Scoggan “After finishing the IOP program, I finally feel free—and more in control of my life than I ever imagined possible.”
I’ve lived under the weight of OCD for as long as I can remember. From childhood on, I cycled through countless medications and therapy approaches. Some brought temporary relief, but OCD always found a way back in—stronger and harder to push away each time. I managed to function fairly well through high school and into my early college years, but the past three years were the darkest. My OCD reached levels I’d never experienced before.
No matter what I tried—new meds, different therapists—nothing stuck. I became so consumed by compulsions that I couldn’t even hug my loved ones. OCD convinced me I had to wear multiple layers to “protect” my skin from the world. I couldn’t allow any contact. And if I did feel contaminated, the only solution OCD offered was punishing: long, scalding showers, scrubbing with a loofah until my skin was raw. I used so much soap and burned myself so often that my body was covered in wounds. A short shower took at least 90 minutes. On my worst days, I was stuck in the bathroom for over three hours.
There were countless nights where I sobbed to my mom, telling her I couldn’t keep going like this. I felt completely drained—physically, mentally, emotionally—and at times I questioned if life was even worth living under OCD’s grip. Finding Ricky Scoggan who is now at The Scoggan Institute became my final shot at recovery. The wait to begin the IOP felt agonizing, but it ended up being the most worthwhile decision of my life.
The moment I sat down with Ricky, something shifted. For the first time, I was working with a therapist who didn’t just treat anxiety—he understood OCD. I felt seen. I felt safe.
Completing the IOP program changed everything. Today, I can hug my family and friends again. I dress how I want without fear. My showers are under ten minutes—and there’s no more scrubbing, no more boiling water, no more torment. The endless inner battles have stopped. For the first time in my life, I feel calm. I feel hopeful. I feel free.
With the continued support from The Scoggan Institute, I know that OCD no longer runs my life. I’ll always be grateful for the tools I’ve gained and the peace I’ve found
