Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a condition where a person experiences unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that create anxiety, fear, or discomfort. To relieve that distress, they may feel driven to perform repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions). These patterns can become time-consuming, overwhelming, and difficult to control even when a person knows the thoughts or behaviors don’t make logical sense.
Biologically, OCD is linked to overactivity in areas of the brain responsible for threat detection, habit formation, and error signals. Neurotransmitters like serotonin and glutamate can also play a role. Genetics, stress, and changes in brain circuitry all contribute.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms vary, but may include:
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Intrusive, unwanted thoughts or images
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Fears of germs, contamination, illness, or harm
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Repetitive behaviors: checking, cleaning, washing, organizing, repeating
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Mental rituals: counting, praying, repeating phrases, reviewing events
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Needing things to feel “just right”
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Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety or obsessions
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Feeling trapped in routines or urges you can’t control
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Shame, embarrassment, or fear that others won’t understand
How Is OCD Treated?
OCD is highly treatable, and the most effective care is personalized to each individual. Treatment may include:
Therapy
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
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DBT, ACT, or trauma-informed approaches
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Building coping strategies, emotional regulation, and thought-shifting skills
Medication
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SSRIs and other evidence-based antidepressant options
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Augmentation of SSRI’s with antipsychotic medications
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Medication can help reduce intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors
Lifestyle & Support
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Sleep and stress management
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Healthy routines and grounding strategies
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Reducing avoidance behaviors over time
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Family or partner involvement if helpful
Advanced Treatment Options
For severe or treatment-resistant OCD, options may include:
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Ketamine therapy
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TMS directed toward OCD-related brain circuits
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Combination therapy and medication
How We Can Help at Better Balance Mental Health
Struggling with OCD can feel frightening, exhausting, or embarrassing — but you do not have to manage it alone. We understand that intrusive thoughts and compulsions are not choices, and we never judge or shame anyone for their symptoms.
At Better Balance Mental Health, we take time to understand your worries, triggers, and goals. We move at a pace that feels safe, supportive, and respectful. We offer therapy, medication, or a combination, depending on your comfort and needs — and we never pressure or push treatments you don’t want.
Our goal is to help you regain control, reduce the power of intrusive thoughts, and get back to living a life that feels full, calm, and meaningful. Healing is absolutely possible, and we’re here to walk that journey with you.