Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by obsessions (repetitive, frequent, unwanted/disturbing thoughts, images, or impulses) and compulsions (mental or physical acts that a person intentionally performs to reduce the distress caused by the obsessions). OCD can occur across the lifespan, starting in early childhood (e.g., preschool) for some, adolescence for others, and adulthood for others.

Individuals with OCD describe “having/needing” to do a compulsion because of the fear/anxiety associated with the obsession. They do not want to do this, but feel that this is the only option when faced with an obsession. This leads to a very vicious cycle and can cause considerable disruption in areas of functioning and further distress for the individual with OCD.

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How is OCD Treated?

At RCBM, we treat OCD using the gold-standard approach of exposure and response prevention (ERP). ERP involves safely and methodically exposing an individual to a feared situation and committing to not engage in compulsive behavior. Over time, ERP retrains the person with OCD’s brain to no longer see the obsession as something to be fearful of, as well as reducing the time-consuming compulsions. The individual with OCD and their therapist will create an exposure plan that feels tolerable to the patient.  There are times when treating OCD with ERP is not enough – research has demonstrated that the most effective approach is often a combination of ERP and medication. You will work with your therapist to decide if this is the best treatment option for you. 

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Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

In addition, Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is an innovative, FDA-cleared treatment that offers new hope for adults living with OCD, who haven’t found relief with medication alone. rTMS is a non-invasive therapy that targets the root of OCD without surgery, sedation, or downtime. 

At RCBM, we use NeuroStar® Advanced Therapy, which is the #1 physician-recommended rTMS treatment.  OCD treated with rTMS has been shown to improve symptoms. A total of 57.9% of patients showed a greater than 30% reduction in the severity of OCD symptoms, and 52.4% experienced a sustained response. 

Learn more about RCBM's rTMS program here

Meet the Providers Who Offer Care for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder