OCD

What is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that involves a pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears (called obsessions). These obsessions often lead patients to perform repetitive behaviors (called compulsions). These compulsions are often done to ease stress, but the obsessions end up coming back, leading to a repetitive cycle.

These obsessions and compulsions get in the way of daily activities and relationships and can cause a great deal of distress. The symptoms can start at any time, but often begin in late childhood or early adulthood.

Symptoms of OCD

While OCD often includes both obsessions and compulsions, you can have only obsessions or only compulsions and still have OCD. 

Some of the symptoms that many patients struggling with OCD experience include:

• Unwanted thoughts that keep coming back
• Intense stress
• Fear of contamination or dirt
• Having a hard time dealing with uncertainty
• Doubts that you’ve locked the door or turned off the stove
• Staying away from situations that can cause obsessions
• Constant washing and cleaning
• Constantly checking
• Following a strict routine
• Fear of making a mistake
• Arranging things in a very specific way

Risk Factors of OCD

While anyone can develop OCD, there are certain risk factors that can make some people more susceptible to developing the disorder. If you have a family history of OCD, have had stressful events in your life, have had other mental health disorders, or have had changes in your brain, you may be more at risk of OCD.

OCD Treatment Options

Medications

Certain medications can be highly effective at controlling the obsessions and compulsions that come with OCD. Often, antidepressants are the first line of treatment. Some of the most common medications used (and approved by the FDA) include Prozac, Luvox, Paxil, Zoloft, and Anafranil. The right medication for you can depend on your unique obsessions and compulsions. Dr McGuire will help you discover the medication that works best for you.

Therapy

Certain therapy approaches can also be very beneficial for those struggling with OCD. The approach often used is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). With this form of therapy, you can examine and understand your thoughts and emotions and learn ways to challenge them. With Dr. McGuire’s guidance, you can also alter your harmful thoughts and coping mechanisms and replace them with healthier ones. 

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can also be used to help you learn to accept obsessive thoughts as just thoughts, taking the power away from them.

Schedule a Consultation

You don’t have to struggle with OCD on your own. With the help of Dr. McGuire, you can have a partner on your journey to better mental health. Start feeling better today by scheduling a consultation. Call our office or message us via our online contact form.

Dr. Colleen McGuire

Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, is a Board-Certified Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine specializing in Psychiatry with a background in Anthropology and Music from the University of New Mexico, pre-med studies in Denver, and a medical degree from Touro University in California. She completed her residency at the University of Colorado, serving as Chief Resident, and has held key roles such as Attending Psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Denver Health, as well as working in various inpatient, outpatient, and telepsychiatry settings. Dr. McGuire specializes in trauma, midlife hormonal issues, and alternatives to medication, utilizing therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Known for her empathetic, client-centered approach and strong collaborative relationships, she is licensed in multiple states and enjoys mentoring nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Outside of work, she is a classical pianist, swimmer, and animal lover who values personal growth and creativity.

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