New Jersey
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Therapy (OCD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. These obsessions and compulsions can be time-consuming and significantly interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. OCD is more than just a preference for order or cleanliness. It involves distressing thoughts that compel individuals to perform certain actions repeatedly, even when they recognize the behaviors as irrational. The condition can affect people of all ages, including children, teens and adolescents.
How Common Is
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD is a relatively common disorder. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 1-2% of the global population is affected by OCD. In the U.S., about 1 in 40 adults and 1 in 100 children experience OCD at some point in their lives.
Studies suggest that OCD often begins in childhood or adolescence, with symptoms typically appearing between the ages of 8 and 12, or during late adolescence to early adulthood. Early detection and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Therapy can significantly improve outcomes and long-term remission from symptoms.
Types of Therapy for
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD is a treatable condition using Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Therapy, and several evidence-based treatment methods can help individuals manage symptoms effectively. The most common therapeutic treatments that we offer at Behaved Brain Wellness Center for OCD include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is the gold standard for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder therapy treatment. Specifically, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the most effective approach. ERP gradually exposes individuals to their fears while preventing compulsive behaviors, helping them build tolerance to anxiety and reduce OCD symptoms over time. 50-60% of individuals with OCD experience significant symptom improvement with CBT and ERP therapy.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help individuals manage intrusive thoughts and reduce compulsive urges characteristic of OCD.
Family Therapy
Since OCD can affect the entire family, therapy involving parents and siblings can help create a supportive environment and educate family members on how to respond to OCD behaviors constructively.
Neurofeedback Therapy
For cases of OCD that do not respond to traditional Obsessive Compulsive Disorder therapy treatments, advanced techniques like Neurofeedback therapy, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may be considered. Our team utilizes our in-house Neurofeedback Therapy equipment to help improve OCD.
Medication
At Behaved Brain, we try to avoid a medication intervention and prioritize other therapies before introducing medication. However, for more severe OCD cases, Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine, sertraline, and fluvoxamine, may be prescribed to help manage OCD symptoms. Medication is always used in combination with therapy for optimal results.
Signs & Symptoms of
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD symptoms typically include a combination of obsessions and compulsions. These symptoms can vary in severity and may change over time.
Common Obsessions:
- Fear of contamination (germs, dirt, or illness)
- Unwanted aggressive or sexual thoughts
- Excessive concern with symmetry, order, or exactness
- Fear of harming oneself or others
- Intrusive religious or moral thoughts
- Fear of losing control over one’s actions
Common Compulsions:
- Excessive handwashing or cleaning
- Repeating actions or phrases a specific number of times
- Checking locks, appliances, or other items repeatedly
- Arranging objects in a precise manner
- Counting compulsively
- Seeking reassurance from others
If these behaviors interfere with daily life for at least one hour per day, cause distress, or impair functioning, they may indicate OCD and require professional evaluation that can be performed at Behaved Brain.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
In Children
Nearly 25% of OCD cases begin before age 14, with early onset often linked to a stronger genetic component. Without treatment, up to 40% of childhood OCD cases persist into adulthood. It is important to give these children control and validation in an appropriate way. We work with children to understand how their brains can be “sticky and tricky” and how to be aware when this happens. Developing appropriate coping skills, with boundaries around the maladaptive, learned behaviors helps build confidence, and control for children; limiting their anxiety.
Children sometimes develop maladaptive behaviors to gain control when they feel out of control or anxious. This can be repetitive questions or worries, or repeated behaviors. These children tend to feel the world and their environment deeply, and are very sensitive to things around them.
OCD can be particularly distressing for children, as they may not fully understand why they have certain thoughts or feel compelled to act on them. This can lead to:
Disruptions in daily life
OCD can interfere with school performance, social interactions, and family relationships.
Increased anxiety and distress
Children with OCD often experience high levels of stress when they cannot perform their compulsions.
Social isolation
Fear of judgment or embarrassment can lead children to withdraw from friends and activities.
Difficulty expressing feelings
Younger children may struggle to communicate their distress, making it harder for caregivers and teachers to identify the problem.
frequently asked questions about
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
What Triggers OCD?
OCD can be triggered by a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Stressful events, trauma, or infections (such as PANDAS in children) can also contribute to the onset or worsening of OCD symptoms.
How do you stop OCD thoughts and behaviors?
Managing OCD thoughts requires structured treatment, such as ERP therapy, mindfulness, and medication. Avoiding compulsions, reframing intrusive thoughts, and working with a therapist can help reduce OCD-related distress.
Does OCD go away on its own?
OCD rarely resolves without Obsessive COmpulsive Disorder therapy treatment. While some individuals may experience periods of symptom relief, untreated OCD can worsen over time. Therapy and medication (when needed) significantly improve outcomes.
Start Your OCD Therapy Journey
OCD is a challenging but treatable condition that affects millions of people, including children. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with OCD, seeking professional help with Behaved Brain is the first step toward recovery.
