Work with an OCD Therapist in Orange County CA
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, or OCD for short, is a chronic mental health condition involving unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Obsessions are usually specific and focused on a particular fear or theme. For example, a person might fear germs making them sick, which they think about obsessively. To reduce anxiety about getting sick, they compulsively wash their hands. It’s important to note this is just one example of how OCD could manifest—obsessions and compulsions can vary widely from person to person based on their particular fears. The disorder varies in intensity but will always interfere to some extent with daily life and overall well-being. The good news is that there is hope. With an OCD Therapist in Irvine, CA, you can break the shackles of OCD.
An Overview of OCD
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) estimates that 1.2% of adults in the United States suffer from OCD, and it is more common in women than in men. While OCD can affect anyone, certain factors tend to increase the chances of onset or worsen symptoms, including:
- Life events: Traumatic or stressful life events tend to trigger OCD.
- Family history: Having a parent or sibling with OCD increases the chances of an individual also developing OCD.
- Other mental health disorders: Anxiety and depression are often comorbid with OCD.
If you suspect that you or a loved one is currently struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder, it’s important to know that there is hope. The right interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and, in some cases, medication, can help those struggling effectively manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
Treatment for OCD
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective treatment for OCD. It helps individuals challenge and reframe negative thought patterns. A specific type of CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), involves gradually exposing individuals to their fears while preventing the compulsive behaviors. Over time, doing so helps decrease the power of the obsessive thoughts on the individual’s mind. Sometimes, medication is also used in combination with therapy. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are among the most common.
Frequently Asked Questions About Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Do I have OCD, or am I just a perfectionist?
Usually, this question comes down to whether your thoughts are distressing and interfere with your daily life, relationships, and well-being. Ultimately, you’ll need a professional evaluation to truly answer this question.
Will OCD go away on its own?
Unfortunately, OCD does not just go away. However, the right treatment will allow you to control symptoms so much that they don’t affect your daily life.
How long after I start therapy will I start to feel relief?
Most clients begin to notice their symptoms of OCD lessen after a few weeks to a few months of starting therapy with our OCD Therapist in Irvine, CA.
Will I need to be in therapy forever for OCD?
Each person is unique, and while some benefit from long-term therapy throughout their lifetime, many of our clients have reached a point where their symptoms are well-managed. In this case, they can reduce the frequency of sessions or even discontinue therapy. Our clients always have the option of resuming therapy if their symptoms are triggered or worsen again.
Can children or teenagers develop OCD?
Yes, OCD often begins at a younger age than other mental health disorders. Some children as young as eight years old show symptoms.
Find Comfort and Strength with Dora: Your OCD Therapist in Irvine, CA
It takes great courage to seek support for OCD, and Dora Valencia, LCSW, is here to help guide you through that journey. As an OCD Therapist in Irvine, CA, she uses a collaborative approach to establish personalized goals for managing OCD symptoms. Dora is committed to helping her clients find balance. She does so by offering the tools and support they need to regain control over obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Dora draws from evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Dora has extensive experience working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she provides therapy via Telehealth, making support accessible for those with busy lives. Dora’s compassionate and empowering approach will help you break free from the cycle of anxiety and OCD, allowing you to achieve emotional and mental well-being.