Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic psychiatric condition marked by frequent, repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and the need to perform specific, unnecessary actions (compulsions). These obsessions cause immense anxiety, temporarily relieved by compulsions. These actions, which may seem unnecessary to others, are rituals performed to alleviate the stress from obsessions. Each individual with OCD may have unique compulsions, making this disorder highly personal and varied.
Most mental health professionals recommend treating OCD with therapy and sometimes medication. Both group and individual therapy have proven to help mitigate OCD symptoms.
Our Team at LAT has developed a unique Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) designed for individuals living with mental health conditions including OCD. Our IOP consists of individual and group therapy sessions utilizing evidence-based and experiential modalities to provide every client with the tools and skills needed to help manage their illness, unlearn damaging behaviors, and ultimately build structure and meaning in their lives.
The way OCD presents can be as unique and exceptional as the people themselves. Although there are no specific classifications or subtypes of OCD, symptoms and obsessions can be grouped into 4 categories.
The symptoms in this dimension are characterized by persistent fears of illness, contamination, or general uncleanliness both physically and mentally. This will result in the compulsion to repeatedly clean items even if they are already clean or to get rid of items they see as “dirty.” Other compulsions such as unique washing rituals and cleaning a certain item a specific number of times are also symptoms associated with this dimension. These individuals may also take extreme measures to avoid what they see as possible sources of contamination.
These symptoms are defined by an extreme preoccupation with symmetry and organization. People that fall in this category of symptoms may devote large amounts of time to arranging and rearranging items until they feel things are, in their mind, just right. They may also spend time performing repeated counting rituals ensuring that they have a specific number that they feel comfortable with. If a person with these symptoms finds that their things have become disordered, they may become extremely stressed and anxious. This is due to a belief that something negative may occur because something in their life is not perfect. These individuals may not only have a specific way of aligning objects, but may also seek symmetry in action as well. For example, if a person with this preoccupation was to get a cut on their right hand they might feel the need to have the same cut on their left hand.
The symptoms associated with this dimension are characterized by overwhelming and intrusive thoughts that are often violent and/or sexual in nature. These thoughts are often followed by or associated with extreme feelings of shame and guilt. Individuals in this dimension are so distressed by their thoughts that they may seek constant reassurance from others that they are not “bad” or capable of doing “bad” things. They may also perform rituals or seek religious/moral extremes in order to “control” their thoughts.
The symptoms in this dimension are characterized by the persistent fear that throwing something away or having less of something will have negative consequences for them or someone they know. Individuals that fall in this dimension may collect multiples of the same item or may even keep an item that is potentially harmful. They may also feel the need to constantly take stock of all their belongings to ensure nothing has been lost. If they do lose an item, this could cause an extreme emotional response even if it was of little material or emotional value.
It’s important to have a program that meets your unique needs and helps you establish a personal connection. The following questions are designed to match you with the right program at Life Adjustment Team based on your needs and personal preferences.
We empower individuals to achieve lasting change and improved quality of life. For more information on our comprehensive treatment options, including Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and Partial Hospitalization Programs, contact us to learn how we provide the support and expertise needed to overcome OCD and embrace wellness.
Life Adjustment Team is committed to excellence in mental healthcare, achieving accreditation from The Joint Commission and exceeding licensing standards. Our dedication to client success has also led to valuable affiliations with leading organizations.
If you or a loved one needs our programs, contact us today. We have the expertise and passion to help individuals reclaim their lives from debilitating mental health conditions. Overcome anxiety, regain confidence, and take the first step towards a brighter future with Life Adjustment Team’s support.
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The Life Adjustment Team provides effective in-home structure and support systems that empower patients to live stable, active and productive lives using evidence-based treatment concepts for successful rehabilitation and recovery.
