What are Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) and Related Disorders?
These disorders are characterized obsessions (intrusive and unwanted recurrent thoughts, urges, or images) and/or compulsions (repetitive mental acts or behaviors that one is compelled to perform). Some other related disorders include body-focused repetitive behaviors such as hair pulling (Trichotillomania) or skin picking (Excoriation Disorder). Patients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder suffer from preoccupation with perceived flaws or defects of their body that are not visible to others. Patients with Hoarding Disorder have difficulty throwing out objects even when the accumulated clutter makes it difficult to live at home. If you have symptoms of any of these disorders, contact us to schedule an evaluation today.
Specific OCD and Related Disorders:
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder
- Hoarding Disorder
- Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)
- Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder
- Substance/Medication-Induced Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorder Due to Another Medical Condition
What are some signs or symptoms of OCD and Related Disorders?
In general, most people with OCD experience the obsessions and compulsions as described above. Sometimes, the obsessions can be about dirt, germs, violent thoughts, religious beliefs, and compulsions can involve locking and unlocking doors, checking behaviors (making sure the stove is turned off or that the lights are off), or repeated hand-washing. The intrusive nature of these thoughts and behaviors means that patients experience significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
If you feel as though any of these conditions may describe what you are experiencing, please contact us to schedule an evaluation. OCD can be successfully treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medications. We utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help change thinking patterns to decrease obsessional thoughts and consequently decrease compulsive behavior. We will also determine which specific medication is right for you and will work best in combination with your psychotherapy.