Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

People with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often become the subject of a lack of understanding that focuses on the particular rituals they perform as a part of their disorder. The truth of the matter is that this particular anxiety disorder represents a very serious condition that often grips the victim’s mind with fear and, in a very real way, controls their lives.

If you think you might have OCD symptoms or need help with OCD, contact us to see what treatment options are available.

Individuals who suffer from OCD are held captive by unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that make them feel nervous or afraid. To get rid of these thoughts, the person will create a set of behavioral “rules” (compulsions) that must be repeated several times over. These self-imposed rituals generally only manage to dissipate the fear for a short time, which makes seeking treatment even more important.

Most Common OCD Obsessions

  • A fear of dirt or germs
  • Disgust with bodily waste or fluids
  • Concern with order, balance, and exactness
  • Worry that a task has been done poorly
  • Need for constant reassurance
  • Fear of harming a family member or friend
  • Fear of thinking evil or sinful thoughts, and
  • Thinking about certain words, images, sounds, or numbers all the time

Homosexual Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (HOCD)

Homosexual OCD (“HOCD”) is a specific subtype of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in which the person suffers from frequent and continued sexual obsessions and doubts about their own sexual orientation. As of this writing the term HOCD is not yet a scientific term but it has evolved within the OCD community to help describe the symptoms that accompany those who are hounded by thoughts about being gay.

Most Common OCD Compulsions

  • Excessively repetitive cleaning and grooming
  • Seeking constant reassurance and approval
  • Ordering and arranging items in certain ways
  • Counting to a certain number over and over
  • Saving newspapers, mail, or containers when they are no longer needed
  • Repeating actions, such as: going in and out of a door, sitting down and getting up from a chair, or touching certain objects several times

You Are Not Alone

Approximately 3 million Americans between the ages of 18 and 54 suffer from OCD, which tends to affect men and women equally. In adults, symptoms usually begin around age 21. If the disorder does start in childhood, signs are generally seen around age 10.

What Causes OCD?

There is no proven cause of obsessive-compulsive disorder, although many experts theorize that reduced serotonin levels in the brain can contribute to the condition. Others believe that the disorder stems from habits learned over time through someone’s environment.

Recommended Treatment For Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

The most effective remedy for OCD is a combination of therapy and medication. Psychotherapists will typically focus on Cognitive Behavior Therapy, which asks the patient to face the situations that trigger their obsessions. During these sessions the patient is encouraged not to perform their rituals as long as they’re able to tolerate the high levels of anxiety that can result from the experience. In addition, certain medications are helpful in reducing symptoms of OCD.

Treatment should be sought once an individual’s obsessions begin to rule their life. A person who suffers from this condition often spends the majority of their day repeating their rituals over and over. They have little time left for anything else because they’re so gripped by the need to obey compulsions they feel powerless to ignore. If your obsessions have reached this level, please contact us immediately for the most effective assistance.

Treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder in Delray Beach, FL and also across the United States via teletherapy.

Looking for immediate help?
Contact Us Today for a Confidential Assessment.

Call 561-496-1094 or

Treatment Programs Specializing In:

Serving the whole person, not just the symptoms. In all of our programs your comfort, privacy and long-term success are paramount.

COVID-19 Trauma has become familiar to many people throughout the pandemic. If you’re experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or depression as a result of Corona virus learn about how our COVID-19 Trauma Treatment Program can help.

 

We offer online therapy to help people who are unable to leave their homes. Contact us and we will will schedule your confidential online assessment.

 

Helping people from all walks of life find deeper connection and understanding to create stronger and healthier relationships.

 

Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric illnesses affecting children and adults. When you experience anxiety that is persistent, seemingly uncontrollable, overwhelming and disabling you may have an anxiety disorder.

 

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Children and adolescents experience normal problems of growing up due to pressures of social media, school, socializing, self esteem or family. Our youth services provide assistance in dealing with educational, social, and vocational issues.

 
 

The Trauma Institute provides highly specialized clinical services, informed by the latest cutting edge-research, for trauma survivors. We are an Institute dedicated to clinical services, community education, professional training, and research focused on trauma recovery.

 
 
 

Many children and adults who have weak executive functioning skills are negatively impacted in all areas of life but fortunately through assessment and intervention, executive skills can be strengthened and compensatory strategies can be learned.  When these skills are well developed, children and adults can better maximum their potential and future outcomes.

 
 

Families naturally go through stages and transitions across the lifespan. Family dynamics impact each individuals’ response to daily life and major events. Therapy can help families understand their complex and ever-changing dynamics. As the family becomes an expert in their processes, they will be able to use new skills to navigate each situation with love and respect for one another.

 
 
 

Types of Therapy

The Center offers cutting edge therapy designed to get you on the road to a speedy recovery. We will help you to learn how to live your daily life free from the fears or compulsions that inhibit you or your child’s ability to complete each day’s tasks.

More Ways to Get Help Now

The Center offers cutting edge therapy designed to get you on the road to a speedy recovery. We know that you can’t always make it into our office for your session. Which is why we now provide teletherapy. You can get support from the comfort of your own home. We offer cognitive behavior therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness meditation, group therapy, and medication. Depending on your needs, here’s how you can get help now:

Online or Phone Therapy

For individuals around the country or those wanting help from the comfort of your own home, we offer therapy via Facetime, Skype or phone.

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In Person Treatment

We have professionals available 7 days a week. Our offices are conveniently located in the Boca/Delray area.

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Intensive Outpatient Programs

For those who prefer a more short-term approach we offer intensive sessions for individuals or groups. Perfect for those with a less flexible work schedule.

When it comes to anxiety or mood disorders we specialize in treating the whole person, not just your symptoms. In all of our programs your comfort, privacy and long-term success are paramount.

Looking for immediate help?
Contact Us Today for a Confidential Assessment.

Call 561-496-1094 or