Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Treatment
Break the Cycle of Obsessions and Compulsions
OCD is more than a set of habits—it’s a deeply disruptive condition that deserves specialized attention. At West Coast Psychiatry Associates, we serve adults across Bellevue, Sacramento, and surrounding regions with advanced, evidence-backed care. We focus on reducing the grip of intrusive thoughts and behaviors through targeted therapy and responsible medication support, helping you reclaim control of your life.
Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is characterized by repetitive actions that seem uncomfortable, if not impossible to stop. It involves persistent, unwanted thoughts, urges, or images (obsessions) that trigger anxiety, followed by repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce distress or prevent a feared outcome. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and often progress gradually over time. While stress can exacerbate symptoms, OCD can occur independently of stressful circumstances.
Common Misconceptions About OCD
The media often portrays OCD as simply being extremely neat or organized, but the reality is much more complex and diverse. OCD can manifest in countless ways beyond the stereotypical hand-washing or checking behaviors. Additionally, OCD is frequently underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, and even when correctly identified, treatment is often insufficient. This is why working with specialists who have extensive training in diagnosing and treating OCD is crucial.
Signs That You May Be Experiencing OCD
OCD manifests through both obsessions and compulsions, which can vary widely between individuals. Common signs include:
Obsessions (Unwanted Thoughts):
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Contamination fears related to germs, dirt, or bodily fluids
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Symmetry and order concerns with a need for things to be "just right"
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Intrusive thoughts about harm coming to yourself or others
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Unwanted taboo thoughts related to sex, religion, or morality
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Fear of losing control or acting on unwanted impulses
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Excessive doubt and difficulty tolerating uncertainty
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Superstitious beliefs about lucky or unlucky numbers, colors, or arrangements
Compulsions (Repetitive Behaviors):
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Excessive washing or cleaning rituals
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Checking behaviors (doors, appliances, body sensations)
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Counting, tapping, or repeating certain words or phrases
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Arranging and ordering items in a specific way
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Mental rituals like praying, counting, or "canceling" bad thoughts
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Seeking reassurance repeatedly from others
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Avoidance of situations that trigger obsessions
If these thoughts and behaviors are consuming significant time (more than an hour daily), causing distress, or interfering with your normal routines, relationships, or functioning, it may be time to seek professional help.
Our Approach to OCD Treatment
At West Coast Psychiatry Associates, we recognize that effective OCD treatment requires a specialized, personalized approach. Our psychiatrists have extensive training in diagnosing and treating OCD, allowing us to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your specific symptoms and needs.
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What is Medication Management?Medication management is the practice of diagnosing, prescribing, and creating a medication plan to treat certain mental health disorders. Your psychiatrist will then closely monitor your medication dosage through routine visits, offer advice on responsible medication use, and make changes over time if needed. Medication management also offers clients support and education by helping them learn about their respective conditions and empowering them to participate in their recovery process actively. Medication management is often used in tandem with ongoing talk therapy and behavioral optimization practices. Sometimes, this talk therapy will be offered by your Bellevue psychiatrist at West Coast Psychiatry. Other times, it can be provided by your current therapist, who can collaborate with us.
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How Does Medication Management Work?Medication management involves more than just prescribing medication; it also consists of monitoring the medication's effectiveness, side effects, interactions, and the mental and physical changes the client is experiencing. Working with a physician (someone who has a MD/DO and who has completed a psychiatry residency) is crucial for optimal medication management: physicians have the highest amount and quality of training, empowering them to incorporate their knowledge of the liver, kidney, thyroid, and non-psychiatric medications into your psychiatric medication management. Additionally, our medication management services include working with our client's therapists and other clinicians to provide the highest level of collaboration and support. Here at West Coast Psychiatry, our medication management appointments typically take 25 minutes, and your psychiatrist will review your symptoms, physical health, medication use, and lifestyle behaviors. You will also discuss key metrics and any next steps for your medication needs.
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Who Is Medication Management For?Medication management may be an essential part of your psychiatric treatment plan, whether you suffer from a chronic mental health illness or are experiencing a particularly challenging phase of life. You and your Bellevue Psychiatrist will work together to decide if and what medication might be right for you.
Why Choose West Coast Psychiatry for OCD Treatment
Medical Doctors Specializing in Mental Health
As psychiatrists, we bring a medical perspective to your OCD treatment. Our extensive training—including medical school and psychiatry residency—gives us unique insight into how biological, psychological, and social factors interact to affect your mental health.
Specialized Expertise in OCD
Our psychiatrists have specific experience and training in treating OCD, a condition that requires specialized knowledge to treat effectively. We understand the nuances of OCD presentation and the specific treatment approaches that lead to the best outcomes.
Evidence-Based, Results-Oriented Care
We stay current with the latest research on OCD treatment, ensuring the strategies we recommend have scientific support for their effectiveness. Our goal is not just symptom reduction but helping you achieve meaningful improvements in your quality of life.
Personalized Treatment Plans
We recognize that each person's experience with OCD is unique. Your treatment plan is customized to address your specific obsessions, compulsions, circumstances, and goals, evolving as your needs change over time.
OCD Treatment Process
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What is Medication Management?Medication management is the practice of diagnosing, prescribing, and creating a medication plan to treat certain mental health disorders. Your psychiatrist will then closely monitor your medication dosage through routine visits, offer advice on responsible medication use, and make changes over time if needed. Medication management also offers clients support and education by helping them learn about their respective conditions and empowering them to participate in their recovery process actively. Medication management is often used in tandem with ongoing talk therapy and behavioral optimization practices. Sometimes, this talk therapy will be offered by your Bellevue psychiatrist at West Coast Psychiatry. Other times, it can be provided by your current therapist, who can collaborate with us.
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How Does Medication Management Work?Medication management involves more than just prescribing medication; it also consists of monitoring the medication's effectiveness, side effects, interactions, and the mental and physical changes the client is experiencing. Working with a physician (someone who has a MD/DO and who has completed a psychiatry residency) is crucial for optimal medication management: physicians have the highest amount and quality of training, empowering them to incorporate their knowledge of the liver, kidney, thyroid, and non-psychiatric medications into your psychiatric medication management. Additionally, our medication management services include working with our client's therapists and other clinicians to provide the highest level of collaboration and support. Here at West Coast Psychiatry, our medication management appointments typically take 25 minutes, and your psychiatrist will review your symptoms, physical health, medication use, and lifestyle behaviors. You will also discuss key metrics and any next steps for your medication needs.
-
Who Is Medication Management For?Medication management may be an essential part of your psychiatric treatment plan, whether you suffer from a chronic mental health illness or are experiencing a particularly challenging phase of life. You and your Bellevue Psychiatrist will work together to decide if and what medication might be right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About OCD Treatment
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What is Medication Management?Medication management is the practice of diagnosing, prescribing, and creating a medication plan to treat certain mental health disorders. Your psychiatrist will then closely monitor your medication dosage through routine visits, offer advice on responsible medication use, and make changes over time if needed. Medication management also offers clients support and education by helping them learn about their respective conditions and empowering them to participate in their recovery process actively. Medication management is often used in tandem with ongoing talk therapy and behavioral optimization practices. Sometimes, this talk therapy will be offered by your Bellevue psychiatrist at West Coast Psychiatry. Other times, it can be provided by your current therapist, who can collaborate with us.
-
How Does Medication Management Work?Medication management involves more than just prescribing medication; it also consists of monitoring the medication's effectiveness, side effects, interactions, and the mental and physical changes the client is experiencing. Working with a physician (someone who has a MD/DO and who has completed a psychiatry residency) is crucial for optimal medication management: physicians have the highest amount and quality of training, empowering them to incorporate their knowledge of the liver, kidney, thyroid, and non-psychiatric medications into your psychiatric medication management. Additionally, our medication management services include working with our client's therapists and other clinicians to provide the highest level of collaboration and support. Here at West Coast Psychiatry, our medication management appointments typically take 25 minutes, and your psychiatrist will review your symptoms, physical health, medication use, and lifestyle behaviors. You will also discuss key metrics and any next steps for your medication needs.
-
Who Is Medication Management For?Medication management may be an essential part of your psychiatric treatment plan, whether you suffer from a chronic mental health illness or are experiencing a particularly challenging phase of life. You and your Bellevue Psychiatrist will work together to decide if and what medication might be right for you.
Ready to Take Control of Your OCD?
OCD is a treatable condition, and effective help is available. Our psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA, and Sacramento, CA, are committed to providing the comprehensive, personalized care you need to overcome OCD and reclaim your life from intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
If you're struggling with OCD, or if you wonder whether you might have OCD, don't hesitate to reach out. Take the first step toward freedom from OCD today.