Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
You are more than your thoughts — effective treatment can restore freedom.
Overview
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic condition marked by uncontrollable, recurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that the person feels driven to repeat. While everyone experiences unwanted thoughts occasionally, in OCD these thoughts are persistent, distressing, and interfere significantly with daily functioning. OCD is not a personality quirk or a desire for cleanliness — it is a recognized neurological condition that responds well to targeted treatment.
Causes & Risk Factors
OCD is thought to arise from a combination of genetic factors, differences in brain circuitry (particularly the orbitofrontal cortex and thalamus), and environmental triggers such as stress or trauma. It can run in families and is sometimes triggered by streptococcal infections in children (PANDAS).
Who It Affects
OCD affects approximately 2–3% of the U.S. population — about 1 in 40 adults and 1 in 100 children. It affects men and women equally and typically begins in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood.
Signs & Symptoms
Intrusive Obsessions
Persistent, unwanted thoughts about contamination, harm, symmetry, religion, or taboo subjects.
Compulsive Rituals
Repetitive behaviors such as handwashing, checking locks, counting, or arranging objects to temporarily relieve anxiety.
Avoidance
Avoiding situations or objects that trigger obsessive thoughts.
Time-Consuming Rituals
Spending more than one hour per day on obsessions and compulsions.
Ego-Dystonic Thoughts
Recognizing that obsessive thoughts are irrational yet feeling unable to control them.
Functional Impairment
Significant interference with work, school, relationships, and daily activities.
Our Approach at NTX Psychiatry
NTX Psychiatry offers medication management as a core component of OCD treatment. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and clomipramine are the first-line medications for OCD and can significantly reduce symptom severity. We work alongside therapists specializing in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard psychotherapy for OCD, to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
What to Expect
- 1Accurate OCD diagnosis distinguishing it from anxiety disorders and other conditions
- 2SSRI or other medication management with careful dose optimization
- 3Coordination with ERP-specialized therapists for combined treatment
- 4Ongoing evaluation of treatment response and side effect management
- 5Supportive, non-judgmental care that respects the distress OCD causes
Get Help Today
Ready to take the first step?
Our caring team is here to listen. Schedule a consultation and start your path to wellness.
Schedule AppointmentCall +1 (469) 407-3000