Hoarding Counsellors

Hoarding

Hoarding is a persistent difficulty discarding or letting go of possessions. The behaviour often has a number of negative effects for the hoarder and often for family members.  These can include emotional, social and physical challenges for the hoarder and those in a relationship with the hoarder.

There is a difference between hoarding and collecting.  Hoarding often produces a sense of shame as many of the items are not longer needed and their presence often affects day to day functioning.  Collecting may be a source of pride because the items are intentionally collected, valued and organized.

If you feel you have a problem with hoarding it may be useful to get help to challenge it and discover what will work to address it and the issues that trigger it.

Eric Ochs

Ph.D., R.Psych
Dr. Eric Ochs was awarded his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from McGill University in 2000. He was trained and worked for a number of years at the Royal Victoria Hospital (Montreal) in the Sex & Couple... Read more