OCD
Discover effective treatments for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, including various types of therapy for OCD, consultations with an Online OCD Psychiatrist, and the benefits of CBT for OCD in managing symptoms.
“OCD is like a prison, and my thoughts are the bars.”
Obsessions and compulsions can consume so much of a person’s time that it can get in the way of leading a normal life. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD can cause obstruction in day-to-day activities and can negatively impact one’s family, education, social life, and career.
Effective management and treatment of OCD are important for long-term well-being.
Here at Gaba Telepsychiatry, we offer a wide range of OCD treatments including therapy, nutrition, hormone evaluation, and medication. Our psychiatrists are committed to helping you find the right treatment and supporting you through the recovery process.
What is OCD?
OCD is a common, but yet chronic and long-lasting disorder in which the individual has recurring and unwanted thoughts (obsessions). In order to free themselves of these thoughts, they feel the urge or are driven to do something repeatedly (compulsions). These repetitive behaviors such as washing hands, or continuously checking on things can greatly interfere with day-to-day activities. This mental health condition involves intrusive, obsessive, and distressing thoughts.
The behavior of those suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder is rigid, and thoughts are intrusive and persistent. The inability to conduct these behaviors can cause enormous distress, related to a certain fear of the grave outcome if the behavior is not accomplished. For those struggling with OCD, consulting an OCD psychiatrist can be an essential step toward effective treatment and management.
Even though many individuals with OCD are aware that their thoughts are unrealistic, they are unable to disengage or stop the obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions respectively.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for OCD) has been shown to be an effective treatment for many individuals. Even though many individuals with OCD are aware that their thoughts are unrealistic, they are unable to disengage or stop the obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions respectively. CBT for OCD helps individuals challenge these thoughts and gradually reduce compulsive behaviors.
What is an Obsession?
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, version 5 (DSM-5), obsession is the “recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges, or images that are experienced, at some time during the disturbance, as intrusive and unwanted, and that in most individuals cause marked anxiety or distress.”
What is Compulsion?
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors (physical or mental actions) performed because the individual feels compelled to do so to come out of the anxiety caused by these obsessions. According to the DSM-5, compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts driven by obsessions or rigid rules, aimed at reducing distress or preventing dreaded events, but are often excessive or not realistically connected to their purpose. Therapy for OCD often focuses on breaking this cycle of compulsive behavior.
What is an Intrusive Thought?
Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, involuntary ideas or images that can cause significant anxiety, often involving fears of harm, doubts, or inappropriate content. These thoughts, which conflict with a person’s values, are particularly distressing for those with obsessive compulsive disorder or anxiety disorders. Intrusive thoughts can trigger compulsive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety, creating a cycle that disrupts daily life.
Do Most People with OCD have Obsessions and Compulsions?
People suffering from OCD exhibit symptoms of obsessions, compulsions, or both. These symptoms can cause great hindrances and affect all aspects of life whether it be academics, career, personal, or social life.
OCD with obsessions but without compulsions :-
100 percent people with OCD have obsessions or intrusive thoughts that cause distress. Most people do not have compulsions or ritualistic behavior.
OCD with obsessions and compulsions :-
A small percentage of individuals have compulsions or rituals that they need to follow in order to relieve themselves of anxiety. Completing the compulsions temporarily relieves anxiety, then the intrusive thoughts return, and the cycle repeats itself. CBT for OCD is often recommended as an effective treatment approach for breaking this cycle.
Although OCD with obsessions is less common than OCD with compulsions, it is more well-known.
What are the Different Types of Intrusive Thoughts in OCD?
Violent Intrusive Thoughts
Harm OCD, a subtype of OCD, involves violent intrusive thoughts and fears of harming oneself or others, leading to anxiety and compulsive behaviors, but these thoughts do not reflect the person’s character or morals.
Sexual Intrusive Thoughts
Sexual OCD involves distressing sexual thoughts about animals, objects, or relatives, causing anxiety and shame. Unlike fantasies, these thoughts lead to fears like becoming a pedophile or being violent during sex.
Intrusive Thoughts About Health
Health Anxiety OCD involves obsessive thoughts about developing serious illnesses, leading to constant worry that takes over one’s life. These irrational thoughts drive compulsive behaviors in an attempt to alleviate the anxiety.
Intrusive Thoughts About Germs
Contamination OCD involves obsessive fears of germs and contamination, prompting individuals to seek reassurance from a psychiatrist. These thoughts cause significant distress and interfere with daily life.
Intrusive Thoughts About Dying
OCD death obsessions, or Thanatophobia, cause intense fear of death, leading to constant worry that disrupts daily life. Diagnosis requires six months of symptoms, with treatment through therapy and medication.
Intrusive Thoughts About Wrongdoing
False Memory OCD involves distressing doubts about having done something wrong, making it hard to distinguish reality from imagination. This can lead to confusion, anxiety, and fear of punishment or arrest.
OCD Psychiatrists
Board Certified Psychiatrist with Multiple State Licenses MBBS (MD)
Dr. Valeria Serban is a board-certified neuropsychiatrist with 20 years of professional experience and a keen passion for treating mental health illnesses using modalities such as therapy and medication management. She’s an expert in diagnosing and treating most mental health conditions with extensive experience with conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, dementia, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), mood disorder, panic disorder, postpartum depression, and psychosis, among others.
Dr. Serban has worked extensively in general adult psychiatry and geriatric psychiatry. She treats psychiatric illnesses associated with neurological conditions such as migraine, epilepsy, concussion, stroke, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, and other neurological conditions.
Dr. Serban has a kind and compassionate approach to patient care. She utilizes a combination of medication management and psychotherapy to help treat various types of psychiatric illness and age-related cognitive decline.
Dr. Serban is well-known for her warm and friendly personality and provides patients with a safe and comfortable environment for easy recovery and symptom management. She constantly researches different treatment options and works with her patients and their families to find the one that best suits their requirements.
Dr. Serban is multilingual and speaks fluently in six languages: English, Romanian, Italian, French, Spanish, and German.
Medical School
University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, Romania
Neurology Residency Training
University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, Romania
Master of Philosophy (M.Ph.) – Neuroscience
NYS Institute for Basic Research, New York
Internal Medicine Residency
Temple University Hospital, Pennsylvania
Neurology Residency
Temple University Hospital, Pennsylvania
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Neuroscience
NYS Institute for Basic Research, City University of New York – Graduate Center
Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts
Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Electromyography – American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM)
Neuromuscular Medicine – American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Recertification – American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York & New Jersey (MD)
Dr. Tony Isaac is an experienced double Board Certified Psychiatrist with a keen interest in evaluating and treating mental health illnesses such as insomnia, panic attacks, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Dr. Issac specializes in addiction recovery treatments and medication management and uses a combination of psychotherapy and sensitive medication titration to help his patients achieve a collaborative treatment plan. Using both medication and non-medication techniques, Dr. Issac focuses on recovery and healing, thereby improving the overall mental health of his patients and helping them live a fuller and happier life.
Dr. Issac is popular among his patients for being very kind, respectful, empathetic, articulate, patient, and always willing to listen. He conducts suicide assessments and acute stabilization, which includes working with the family and employer to provide the required care and support.
Medical School
St. George’s University: School of Medicine
Psychiatry Residency Training
Richmond University Medical Center: affiliate of Mount Sinai Health Network
Bachelors of Science (B.S.) in Psychobiology
Binghamton University – State University of New York
Board Certification
American Board of Preventative Medicine – Addiction Medicine, Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology – Psychiatry, Board Certification
Board Certified Psychiatrist with Multiple State Licenses MBBS (MD)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience practicing clinical psychiatry experience. She also has ten years of experience practicing forensic psychiatry. Dr. Reddy has trained in medication management, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Dr. Reddy is interested in integrative psychiatry and believes multiple factors should be considered when evaluating and treating a patient. This, as per Dr. Reddy at includes genetic and developmental factors, medical illness, nutrition, hormones, and environmental and dynamic factors.
Dr. Reddy believes that it is extremely critical to understand psychodynamic conflict and the causes of symptoms while prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms as will help enhance the quality of care. Apart from psychodynamic training Dr Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Medical School
The United Medical Dental Schools of Guys Kings and St Thomas’ at King’s College London
Psychiatry Residency Training
Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Training
NYU Psychoanalytic Institute
Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry Neurology
Schedule an Appointment with one of our Online Psychiatrists
Clinical Services: California, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee
Forensic Psychiatry Services: All of the US and Canada
OCD Symptoms
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder manifests through a variety of symptoms, affecting individuals in physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral ways. Consulting an OCD psychiatrist can be beneficial for managing these diverse symptoms.
Physical Symptoms of OCD
- Compulsions: Repetitive physical actions like washing hands, checking locks, or rearranging objects. These actions are performed to alleviate anxiety caused by obsessions, and CBT for OCD often addresses these behaviors.
- Restlessness: Physical agitation or discomfort due to the urge to perform compulsive behaviors.
- Fatigue: Physical exhaustion from the mental and emotional toll of dealing with obsessions and compulsions.
Cognitive Symptoms of OCD
- Obsessions: Persistent, intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses that cause distress. These may include fears of contamination, harm, or unwanted sexual thoughts.
- Perfectionism: An overwhelming need for things to be perfect or done in a specific way.
- Doubt: Constant questioning or uncertainty about one’s thoughts, actions, or surroundings.
Emotional Symptoms of OCD
- Anxiety: Intense feelings of worry or fear related to obsessive thoughts or the need to perform compulsions.
- Guilt: Feelings of responsibility for potential harm or inappropriate thoughts, even when irrational.
- Shame: Embarrassment or self-consciousness about having Obsessive Compulsive Disorder symptoms.
Behavioral Symptoms of OCD
- Avoidance: Steering clear of situations, places, or objects that might trigger obsessions.
- Reassurance Seeking: Frequently asking others for confirmation or comfort to alleviate doubts or fears.
- Rituals: Engaging in specific routines or behaviors to prevent perceived negative outcomes.
Types of OCD
OCD manifests in various forms, each characterized by different obsessions and compulsions.
Some common types include:
What Causes OCD?
OCD arises from a mix of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Genetically, it often runs in families, suggesting a hereditary link. An OCD psychiatrist can help identify these familial patterns and provide tailored treatment.
Neurologically, differences in brain structure and function contribute to the disorder. Environmental influences also play a role, with stressful life events often triggering or worsening symptoms.
Understanding these causes is key to managing OCD effectively, and CBT for OCD is one of the most effective treatment approaches available.
Genetic Factors of OCD
OCD often runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. If you have a close relative with OCD, your risk of developing the condition increases.
OCD and Brain Chemistry
Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin are linked to OCD. Abnormalities in brain circuits, particularly in the orbitofrontal cortex and the caudate nucleus, also contribute.
OCD and Stress
Stressful life events, trauma, or chronic stress can trigger or exacerbate symptoms, especially in those predisposed to the disorder.
Cognitive Factors of OCD
Certain cognitive patterns, like an intense need for certainty, can lead to obsessive thoughts, making symptoms more pronounced. Treatments like CBT for OCD can help address these cognitive distortions.
Behavioral Factors of OCD
OCD behaviors are often learned responses. Compulsions develop as a way to alleviate anxiety from obsessive thoughts, reinforcing the OCD cycle.
Is OCD an Anxiety Disorder?
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is classified as an anxiety disorder due to its core features of persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate the anxiety caused by these thoughts. An OCD Psychiatrist can provide specialized treatment for managing these symptoms effectively. The disorder involves significant anxiety and distress, which drives individuals to engage in compulsions in an attempt to reduce their fears or prevent a feared event.
Despite this classification, OCD is unique in its specific symptom profile and is sometimes distinguished from other anxiety disorders due to its distinct features, such as the presence of compulsive rituals and a strong focus on particular themes or fears. Therapy for OCD often targets these unique aspects, helping individuals manage their symptoms more effectively.
OCD Diagnostic Criteria
To diagnose Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), the following criteria must be met according to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition):
- Obsessions: Recurrent, intrusive thoughts, urges, or images that cause anxiety or distress.
- Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or mental acts done to reduce anxiety, often not logically connected to the feared event.
- Time Consumption: Obsessions and compulsions take up significant time (e.g., over an hour per day) or impact daily life.
- Distress and Impairment: These symptoms cause notable distress or impair daily functioning.
- Not Attributable to Substance or Medical Condition: Symptoms aren’t due to substance use or a medical condition.
- Not Better Explained by Another Mental Disorder: Symptoms aren’t better explained by another mental disorder like anxiety or body dysmorphic disorder.
Treatment for OCD
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that are performed to alleviate the anxiety caused by these thoughts. Effective treatment for OCD often involves a combination of strategies, and consulting an OCD psychiatrist can be a crucial step in finding the right approach.
Here are the most common approaches:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT for OCD is the most widely used and effective form of therapy for OCD. The specific type of CBT used is called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP involves gradually exposing the person to the source of their anxiety (the obsession) and helping them learn to resist the urge to perform their compulsive behavior.
Mindfulness and Acceptance-Based Therapies
Techniques that focus on increasing awareness and acceptance of thoughts and feelings, rather than trying to control them, can also be helpful. These might include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Support Groups
Joining a support group where individuals share similar experiences can provide encouragement and reduce feelings of isolation.
Lifestyle Changes
Incorporating stress management techniques, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep, can support overall mental health and improve treatment outcomes.
Education and Self-Help
Learning about treatment can empower individuals to manage their condition more effectively. Books, online resources, and self-help strategies can complement professional treatment.
Family Therapy
Involving family members in therapy can help them understand the condition better and learn how to support their loved ones.
Supplements for OCD
Many people with OCD symptoms are turning to supplements as a complementary treatment. Studies show that some nutritional and herbal supplements may be effective in treatment.
Supplements that have been found effective for OCD are:
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that is important to include in the diet. It is known for its calming effects on the nervous system. Magnesium deficiency can also contribute to OCD symptoms. Therefore, magnesium supplements can reduce stress and promote relaxation in patients having anxiety and OCD symptoms. Magnesium can also be considered a supportive supplement when combined with CBT for OCD, enhancing overall treatment outcomes.
Inositol
Inositol is also known as Myoinositol (MI), an isomer of glucose. It is known for its therapeutic effects and is used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Studies show that it can influence serotonin levels and help regulate mood. Therefore, inositol can help in alleviating the symptoms by managing the neurotransmitter function.
Acetylcysteine
Acetylcysteine is a better source of cysteine than parenteral cysteine as it is less toxic, more resistant to oxidation, and more soluble in water. It also helps in maintaining glutamate levels in the brain.
Studies show that Cysteine can cross the blood-brain barrier. In such cases, acetylcysteine can inhibit synaptic glutamate release by cysteine-glutamate exchange and may contribute to the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Therefore, acetylcysteine can help patients as it can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is also known as sunshine vitamin. It is essential for the development and proper functioning of the brain. It plays key roles in nervous system processes such as neurotransmission, neuroprotection, proliferation, and differentiation. Studies show that vitamin D deficiency may play a crucial role in OCD by causing the deterioration of neuroprotection.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is also known as Cobalamin. It plays an important role in carbon transfer metabolism that maintains the methylation of proteins and neurotransmitters such as serotonin. Thus, neurotransmitter levels can decrease due to a deficiency of vitamin B12 resulting in OCD symptoms.
Folic Acid
Vitamin B9 is also known as Folic acid. It plays an important role in carbon transfer metabolism that maintains the neural membrane phospholipids and neurotransmitters such as serotonin and other monoamines. Therefore, folic acid supplements can help treat OCD symptoms.
Medication for OCD
Several classes of medications are used in the treatment of OCD. It was found that medications can be more effective when combined with psychotherapy, especially under the guidance of an OCD psychiatrist.
Some of these are mentioned below:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs are used as antidepressants and are the most commonly prescribed class of medications for OCD. These medications increase the level of serotonin in the brain and help regulate mood. An OCD psychiatrist often recommends SSRIs as part of the initial treatment plan for managing symptoms.
- Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): SNRIs are also used as antidepressants, but they increase both serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This class of medication is found to be effective in the treatment of OCD and is often considered by an OCD psychiatrist when SSRIs are not sufficient.
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): This class of medication is not used as a first-line treatment due to more side effects. Therefore, it is prescribed only when SSRIs or SNRIs are not effective. They work by affecting several neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Atypical Antidepressants: This class of medication is also not used as a first-line treatment. It is recommended and prescribed only when other treatments are not effective against OCD. These medications work differently in comparison to others as they can affect serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine as well.
Therapy for OCD
Here at Gaba Telepsychiatry, we offer a wide range of OCD treatments, including therapy for OCD, nutrition, hormone evaluation, and medication. Our psychiatrists are committed to helping you find the right treatment and supporting you through the recovery process.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for OCD
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT for OCD) is a primary therapy for OCD, focusing on changing dysfunctional thought patterns and behaviors. A key component of CBT for OCD, exposure and response prevention (ERP), involves gradually exposing individuals to their fears while helping them resist compulsive rituals. By challenging irrational beliefs, CBT aims to reduce anxiety and empower individuals to regain control over their lives.
Exposure Therapy for OCD
Exposure therapy, particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), is a crucial part of CBT for OCD. This technique gradually exposes individuals to anxiety-triggering situations while teaching them to resist compulsive behaviors. By confronting their fears, individuals can learn to tolerate anxiety and reduce the influence of obsessive thoughts, leading to improved management of OCD symptoms.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for OCD
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings instead of trying to control them. For those with OCD, ACT promotes psychological flexibility by helping them accept intrusive thoughts while committing to actions aligned with their values. This approach, alongside CBT for OCD, empowers individuals to engage in meaningful activities despite their anxiety, providing an effective framework for therapy for OCD.
Alternative Treatments for OCD
Yoga for OCD
Yoga is an ancient science that has helped manage several psychiatric conditions, including OCD. A regular yoga routine can be integrated into a CBT for OCD treatment strategy to improve the quality of life. Being an amalgamation of physical exercise, stretching, movement, and mindfulness, yoga reduces the symptoms of intrusive thoughts and improves cognitive functioning.
Meditation for OCD
Different meditative practices, such as mindfulness meditation and vedic meditation, can bring a person’s attention to the present moment. Meditation can strengthen the effects of other treatments, such as CBT for OCD. Including meditation in the treatment plan can be effective as it promotes relaxation, well-being, and positive thoughts.
Hypnosis for OCD
Hypnosis is a process in which patients learn how to activate their relaxation response when OCD triggers anxiety. For instance, they may be asked to imagine themselves in their favorite place, or placing their anxiety in a balloon and letting it go. An OCD psychiatrist might guide patients through these techniques to help reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation. Hypnosis may also involve practicing deep breathing using the diaphragm, following a calming breathing pattern.
Exercise for OCD
Research shows that exercise is associated with a significant reduction in OCD symptoms. Exercises that increase the demand for oxygen, such as aerobic exercises, have shown to be the most effective. Individuals with OCD can practice low-intensity workouts like walking or high-intensity activities like HIIT or running. An OCD psychiatrist may recommend specific exercise routines to help manage symptoms and improve overall mental health.
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