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OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves unwanted, distressing thoughts called obsessions, and repeated actions or mental rituals called compulsions that are done to ease the distress. It is not a personality quirk, and it is treatable.
  • In person or by video
  • Medicaid, Medicare and most plans
  • Free 15-minute phone call

Common signs of OCD

  • Intrusive fears about germs, harm, mistakes, or things not being just right
  • Repeated checking, washing, counting, arranging or asking for reassurance
  • Rituals that take up an hour or more a day
  • Avoiding situations that trigger the thoughts
  • Knowing the fears are excessive but feeling unable to stop

How we help

  • A clear diagnosis

    OCD is often confused with anxiety or perfectionism. Getting it right matters because the treatment is specific.

  • Medication

    SSRI medicines help many people with OCD, often at higher doses than used for depression.

  • Exposure and response prevention

    The most effective therapy for OCD. We provide or coordinate it and support you through it.

  • Guidance for families

    How to support a loved one without accidentally strengthening the rituals.

What to expect

  • Improvement with OCD medicines can take longer than with depression, often eight to twelve weeks.
  • Combining medication and exposure therapy usually works best.

Common questions

Is OCD just being very neat?

No. OCD is driven by distressing thoughts and the urge to neutralize them. Many people with OCD are not neat at all.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Every person is different, and your treatment plan is decided with your clinician.

Treatment options

Related conditions

Ready to talk about OCD?

Book online in a couple of minutes, or call the office and we will help you find a time. In-person and telehealth visits are available.

Need help right now? Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, free and available 24 hours a day.

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