Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves unwanted, recurring thoughts (obsessions), repetitive behaviors (compulsions), or both. Compulsions are often an attempt to quiet the distress that obsessions bring, but the relief rarely lasts, and the cycle can take up a great deal of time and energy.
OCD is a focus of our practice. At The Anxiety Treatment Center of Greenwich, we specialize in anxiety disorders, phobias and OCD, and both of our founders bring specialized experience with OCD in children, teens and adults. Visit our Understanding Anxiety page to learn about related conditions.
OCD looks different for everyone. Common patterns include:
Recurring fears about germs, contamination or forgetting something, or unwanted aggressive, sexual or religious thoughts.
A strong need for symmetry or for things to be in a perfect order, and distress when they’re not.
Excessive washing or cleaning, arranging things in a precise way, or repeatedly checking locks and appliances.
Counting, or silently repeating words or prayers, to try to ease anxiety.
People with OCD often spend more than an hour a day on obsessions or compulsions, and the condition can cause real problems at home, school or work. Symptoms can begin at any time but usually start between late childhood and young adulthood.
Some people with OCD also have a tic disorder. You can learn more on our trichotillomania and tic disorders page, or read about generalized anxiety disorder if worries feel broad rather than stuck on specific themes.
OCD is treatable. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is widely considered a gold-standard approach, and a specific form called exposure and response prevention (ERP) helps people gradually face their triggers while resisting compulsions. Medication can also help some people.
Our care is grounded in CBT, with exposure work that happens gradually, in a safe and supportive environment. We also offer virtual reality (VR) therapy for OCD triggers, and for children and teens we often work closely with parents. When appropriate, care can include careful, collaborative medication support. Learn more about our treatment and therapy options.
Here’s how to begin working with our team.
Treatment is designed around your age, symptoms and goals.
Liking things neat isn’t OCD. OCD involves obsessions and/or compulsions that are distressing, take up significant time, often more than an hour a day, and cause problems in daily life.
Yes. Symptoms usually start between late childhood and young adulthood. Our co-founder Maryellen Pachler Kennell specializes in the cognitive-behavioral treatment of OCD in youth.
ERP is a form of CBT in which people gradually face situations that trigger their obsessions while practicing not responding with compulsions.
Some people with OCD also have a tic disorder, which involves sudden, repetitive movements or sounds. Learn more on our trichotillomania and tic disorders page.
We don’t bill insurance directly, but we encourage you to explore your out-of-network benefits. Our services are generally reimbursed by health savings accounts.
If obsessions or compulsions are taking up your time and energy, or your child’s, we’re here to help. Call our office at (203) 769-1365 or reach out through our contact page.
We provide expert diagnosis and evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders in children, adolescents, and adults—helping individuals and families move forward with clarity and confidence.
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