compulsive hand washing

My 19 year old daughrter, who also has Aspergers Syndrome, washes her hands very frequently.  For example, if she reads the newspaper, she washes her hands when finished reading.  If she ties her shoes, she washes her hands since she may have picked up "germs" from her shoes.  This goes on and on all day, and her hands are red from her constant washing.  She sees notices in school and on television about washing hands and how it helps you to avoid getting colds and the flu, but how do I get her to be reasonable about it?

She also at times exhibits other compulsive behaviors like closing a door a few times till it is done "right" and repeatedly turning off a water faucet.  Is there some supplement or behavior therapy to help these compulsions go away?  She does not want to take prescription drugs.

Thank you.

[Ted A Grossbart, Ph.D.]

Yes this is classic OCD and psychotherapy with someone who is used to working with the problem is a good next step.  I don't think you are likely to be able to intervene effectively on your own.

tg