Our providers have extensive experience with treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We have 30 years of experience and many awards for psychiatry, therapy, and mental health coaching.
“I used to unplug every single appliance in my house. Or I’d double-check every door in my house to make sure it was locked at night. It was like a panic come over me and I had to do something, and once I did it, I was ok.” ~ Jessica Alba
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a common mental health condition and anxiety disorder where a person has obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. The repetitive behaviors caused by OCD can significantly interfere with a person’s daily activities and social interactions.
Even if the person experiencing OCD knows their obsessions are not realistic, they have difficulty disengaging from the obsessive thought or stopping the compulsive actions.
Like many illnesses, individuals respond to varying treatments. For OCD, it is common to use a combination of medication and therapy. A type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) has proven very helpful in the treatment of OCD. ERP therapy relies on the principle of habituation and involves exposing the patient to the feared situation in a controlled manner, gradually increasing the degree of exposure. In utilizing ERP, it is important to work with an experienced professional whom you trust, and understanding that you may feel a little discomfort as you approach your fears.
Medications for OCD
Medications are commonly used for ongoing management of the condition or can be used to curb the symptoms in the beginning of the therapy process.
• Learn not to rely on compulsions
• Stop being side-tracked by perfectionism
• Look challenges in a positive light
• Better sleep
• Pain relief
• Improve work quality
OCD can look different between individuals. For instance some people with depression gain weight, while others lose a significant amount of weight; some people suffer from insomnia (not being able to sleep), while others are unable to wake up and get out of bed. In determining if an individual is suffering with depression we look for changes in their normal activities.
It is difficult to list all the symptoms of OCD as they vary greatly between individuals.
Some common examples of obsessions people with OCD experience include:
• Arranging items in a very particular order
• Irrational fears of contamination
• Uncontrollable thoughts about locking doors or turning off appliances
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Lack of energy most days
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Diminished ability to think or concentrate
Common compulsions include:
• Excessive “checking” on door locks and appliances
• Frequent hand-washing
• Repeating prayers or verses
OCD Treatments in New York City
One of the great things about NYC is that there are so many professionals with experience in very niche areas. Finding the right treatment is half of the equation; finding the right therapist is the other half. In getting help with OCD, find a professional you feel comfortable and safe with; don’t settle for just anyone. At Dr. Ditzell Psychiatry we have experienced providers on our team, as well as in our referral network. We will help you find the best fit for you.
Your first step is to call us to schedule your initial appointment.
Your initial evaluation session provides an opportunity for you to build rapport with the psychiatrist/therapist and provide them with some background about yourself and the reasons you are seeking OCD Treatment. In addition to seeing if you will be a good candidate for OCD Treatment, they will be able to answer your questions regarding services, confidentiality, and what to expect in treatment. With your best interests in mind, you will decide together what kind of treatment will benefit you the most.
At the end of your first session, if you decide to move forward and work with that psychiatrist, you will be asked to schedule further appointments. At your second appointment, you will work with your therapist to set goals for your overall mental health experience and then begin working together towards achieving them.
Call +1 646 751 7908 and speak to any of our office staff to learn more or schedule an appointment.
At Dr. Ditzell Psychiatry our patients have and always will be our number one priority; we take their health and well being very seriously and are pleased to be able to offer Adult ADHD treatment in a manner like no other practice we’ve come across.
If you think you have undiagnosed or misdiagnosed obsessive compulsive disorder, give us a call to set up a consultation at +1 646 751 7908.
Experts in providing Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Treatment in New York City