image 50402049 scaled - OCD Treatment in Washington DC
image 50402049 scaled - OCD Treatment in Washington DC
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SERVICES
griffin-003 - copy
SERVICES
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OCD Treatment

Commonly, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is used to describe someone who’s extremely neat and organized. But it’s actually a complex disorder that has a severe impact on those who are afflicted. Without OCD treatment, it can become severely disabling.

What is OCD?

If you’re afflicted with this disorder and not in OCD treatment, a cycle of obsessions and compulsions may have taken over your life.

Obsessions are specific, recurring thoughts that cause distress and are so intrusive you can’t stop focusing on them. Common obsessions include worries about being harmed, exposure to germs or disease, or the need for symmetry or precision.

Compulsions are rituals or behaviors performed to reduce the impact of your obsessions. These are often repetitive and must be done in a precise way to quiet your obsessions. They often significantly interfere with daily life. Compulsions may include extreme cleaning, repeating a specific phrase or behavior, checking things repeatedly, or arranging items in a particular way, among other compulsions.

Researchers have found evidence of biological differences in the brains of those with OCD, which indicates a probable genetic component. OCD likely develops when particular factors interact to trigger symptoms.

OCD seems to stem from differences in brain function. Unusual activity has been observed in serotonin, dopamine, and glutamine’s ability to send messages across brain cells. Some studies show higher levels of inflammation in the brain of those with OCD. Onset often occurs after someone experiences a traumatic brain injury or severe infection that triggers those at risk.

How does medication therapy for OCD help?

The most common medications used in OCD treatment are SSRIs, which stabilize serotonin levels. SSRIs are usually prescribed at a higher dose and may take a few weeks to begin working. I may also prescribe antipsychotic medications if needed. Medication treatment for OCD is shown to be very effective at helping reduce symptoms.

If you have OCD, you may go to great lengths to hide your symptoms out of embarrassment. But left untreated, symptoms may worsen. I offer therapy for OCD in Washington, DC to reduce your symptoms and help restore normal functioning.