Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a long-term mental health condition in which a person experiences uncontrollable, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and engages in repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These symptoms can cause severe distress and interfere with daily life. At Vitalize Behavioral Health, we offer personalized OCD treatment in Fresno to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, our team of Fresno OCD specialists is here to help with compassionate, evidence-based care.
Signs & Symptoms of OCD
OCD can affect both adults and children and typically involves obsessions, compulsions, or both:
Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause anxiety or discomfort. Common examples include:
- Fear of germs or contamination
- Fear of losing or forgetting something important
- Fear of harming oneself or others
- Aggressive or taboo thoughts
- A need for perfect symmetry or exactness
Compulsions are behaviors or mental acts performed repeatedly to reduce anxiety or prevent something bad from happening. Common compulsions include:
- Excessive cleaning or handwashing
- Arranging items in a specific order
- Repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or assignments
- Silent counting or praying
- Repeating phrases or actions until it “feels right”
People with OCD often spend over an hour each day on these behaviors and may recognize they’re excessive, but still feel unable to stop. If you or your child shows signs of OCD, reach out to our mental health clinic in Fresno for a comprehensive evaluation.
Risk Factors for OCD
Various risk factors may increase the chances of developing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), though the exact causes are unknown.
Genetics: Having a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with OCD increases the chance of developing the disorder. Studies exploring the connection between genetics and OCD are ongoing.
Biology: Brain imaging studies have shown that people with OCD often have differences in the frontal cortex and subcortical structures of the brain, areas of the brain that impact the ability to control behavior and emotional responses. Research is underway to better understand the connection between OCD symptoms and parts of the brain to develop targeted treatments.
Temperament: Research suggests that reserved behaviors, negative emotions, and symptoms of anxiety and depression in childhood are more likely to develop OCD.
Childhood trauma: Some studies reported an association between childhood trauma and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, but more research is needed.
At Vitalize, we understand that obsessive-compulsive disorder affects everyone differently, and we take a holistic, trauma-informed approach to OCD therapy in Fresno.
OCD Treatment Options in Fresno
OCD can be overwhelming, but effective treatment options are available, and many people see significant improvement with the right care. At Vitalize, we create customized treatment plans that may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A well-researched form of psychotherapy that helps patients reframe negative thought patterns and reduce compulsive behavior.
- Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP): A type of CBT proven especially effective for OCD. ERP gradually exposes patients to feared thoughts or situations while helping them resist compulsive responses.
- Medication for OCD: Certain antidepressants, such as SSRIs, are commonly prescribed to reduce the intensity of obsessive and compulsive symptoms.
Our team of licensed mental health clinicians works closely with each individual to choose the most effective course of treatment. Whether you’re looking for CBT for OCD in Fresno or specialized ERP therapy near you, we’re here to help you reclaim your life.
Note: The information on this page is provided in part by the National Institute of Mental Health. For more up-to-date information, click here.
