OCD Treatment In Atlanta & Alpharetta, GA

The team at Atlanta Specialized Care is proud to specialize in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). We are dedicated to providing individualized, evidence-based therapies and comprehensive care plans to help patients manage the symptoms and behaviors associated with OCD. Our specialists work with you on an individual and personal level to ensure you receive the highest-quality care for your condition, allowing you to live your life free from the burdens of OCD once again.

What is OCD?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by intrusive, persistent thoughts or images (obsessions) and behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that people feel driven to perform in response to those thoughts. For example, a common obsession and compulsion for people with OCD is the fear of germs and persistent behaviors of cleaning, such as hand washing. OCD can often interfere with daily functioning in areas such as work, school, family life, friendships, and relationships. Atlanta Specialized Care offers comprehensive treatment for those suffering from the effects of OCD, so they can repair their relationships, restore their daily function, and carry out their most fulfilled lives.

OCD Symptoms

There is a wide range of symptoms associated with OCD, as each case is unique to the patient and their individual triggers. Obsessions and compulsions are often specific to the patient and may not fall within the parameters of a textbook definition. However, there are common obsessions and compulsions our specialists see regularly.

Common types of obsessions we see in patients include:

Fear of germs and dirt
Needing things orderly and symmetrical
Aggressive, intrusive thoughts about losing control, religion, or aggression
Doubts about locking the door or turning the stove off

Common compulsions we see in patients as a result of their obsessions include:

Persistent washing and cleaning
Checking for completed actions repeatedly (such as locking the door or turning the oven off)
Following a strict routine
Counting patterns
Silently repeating phrases or prayers
Demanding reassurance

OCD Treatment

There are various treatments available for OCD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in the form of individual therapy , which focuses on changing maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors, is the most common form of treatment for OCD. Exposure and Response Prevention is a popular type of CBT for the treatment of OCD in which the patient is exposed to a feared stimulus or situation without engaging in compulsive behavior. This helps them learn to tolerate anxiety-provoking situations without feeling compelled to do rituals or perform compulsions.

Medications may also be used alongside therapy to help manage OCD symptoms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed type of medication, and they work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, helping reduce anxiety levels. Antidepressants may also be used to help reduce obsessions and compulsions. Ultimately, your OCD treatment with the specialists at Atlanta Specialized Care is going to be personalized to your individual needs and specific symptoms.