Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that causes a person to have repetitive and uncontrollable thoughts and behaviors. These thoughts and behaviors are often distressing and all-consuming.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with OCD, you’re not alone. As many as 3 million American adults and 500,000 children and teens have OCD. The symptoms of OCD can be debilitating. But the good news is: OCD treatment is extremely effective.
Our psychotherapy team at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates offers a range of OCD treatments via telehealth appointments, and we can provide the help you need to start feeling better.
If you regularly struggle with compulsive thoughts or behaviors, it’s important to talk to a professional with experience diagnosing and treating OCD.
At Boston Neurobehavioral Associates, we start with a comprehensive evaluation. We ask questions about your symptoms, thoughts, behavior patterns, medical history, and more. Then, we use your answers to inform our diagnosis.
OCD doesn’t go away on its own. If you’re diagnosed with OCD, we talk with you about the best treatment options to minimize your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
We offer the latest, most effective treatments for OCD at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates. The right treatment plan for you depends on your specific needs, and may include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often our first line of treatment for people with OCD. It’s a type of talk therapy designed to help you understand and change your thoughts and behaviors.
In the case of OCD, your therapist guides you through the process of identifying and challenging your obsessive thoughts. Once you recognize them, you can develop strategies to resist compulsive behaviors.
Prescription medication can be an extremely effective treatment for OCD — especially when combined with CBT. After reviewing your medical history and your diagnosis, we may recommend antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), to treat OCD.
SSRIs can reduce the severity of your OCD symptoms, including obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, so you can focus on therapy with a clearer mind.
Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is a type of CBT that involves gradually exposing you to your obsessive thoughts or fears and teaching you strategies to resist the compulsive behaviors that come with them.
For example, if you have an intense fear of germs, your therapist may encourage you to gradually start exposing yourself to germs. They help you learn how to resist your compulsive responses that come with exposure, such as the urge to wash your hands repeatedly.
Several other therapies can be helpful for people with OCD. Depending on your needs, we may recommend trying family therapy and/or group therapy.
Family therapy helps family members learn how to support the person with OCD and understand their condition. Group therapy provides a supportive environment where you can meet others with OCD, share your experiences, and learn from others.
OCD can make you feel like you’ve lost control. But with the right treatment and support, you can manage your OCD symptoms and improve your quality of life.
If you or a loved one has OCD, start working with our mental health professionals at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates to find a treatment plan that’s right for you. Schedule a telehealth appointment online or call today.
