Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders are characterized by the presence of persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). These behaviors are typically performed in response to the obsessions in an attempt to reduce anxiety or distress, even though they may not be logically connected to the feared outcome. These conditions can significantly impair social, occupational, or daily functioning. Types of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Involves intrusive, recurrent thoughts, urges, or images (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform. These rituals are aimed at reducing distress or preventing a dreaded event, though they are often not realistically connected to the feared outcomes. Common themes include contamination, symmetry, harm, or taboo thoughts.
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) – A preoccupation with one or more perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance, which are either unnoticeable or appear minor to others. This can lead to repetitive behaviors (e.g., mirror checking, excessive grooming) or mental acts (e.g., comparing appearance with others), often resulting in significant emotional distress and impairment in daily functioning.
- Hoarding Disorder – Persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value, due to a perceived need to save them. This leads to cluttered living areas and can severely compromise the use of living spaces. Hoarding is associated with distress and problems in social, occupational, and other important areas of functioning.
- Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder) – Recurrent pulling out of one’s hair, leading to noticeable hair loss. The behavior is often preceded by an increasing sense of tension and followed by a sense of relief or gratification. It may involve hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other body areas.
- Excoriation Disorder (Skin-Picking Disorder) – Recurrent skin-picking resulting in skin lesions, often focused on healthy skin, minor blemishes, or scabs. Like trichotillomania, this behavior is typically preceded by tension or anxiety and followed by a feeling of relief. It can result in significant physical damage and emotional distress.
Worried that you / your loved one may be suffering from Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders?
- Intrusive, unwanted thoughts
- Repetitive behaviors or mental rituals
- Distress when unable to perform compulsions
- Avoidance of triggers
- Feelings of shame or embarrassment
Services, we provide that can help you:
- Psychoeducation
- Psychometric Assessment
- Pharmacotherapy
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Habit reversal training
