The cause of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder has not been established. Some evidence suggests it
is hereditary, some that it is learned. It often runs in families, with one generation passing it on to
the next. Whether this is due to genetics, learning, or both is not known. There is some strong
evidence that children under the age of three years who have had serious strep infections develop
OCD.
How Do You Get Over It?
As long ago as 1966 therapists developed some very effective techniques to help people
overcome OCD. Additionally, some medications have been found to be effective in helping people
with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The reason people perform compulsive actions is more
clearly understood. This means that for sufferers of OCD there is great reason to expect relief from
the disorder. There are two basic strategies for treatment - psychological and medical. A
combination of behavior therapy and medicine seems to be the most effective method. Some
people have learned to overcome their Obsessive Compulsive Disorder without using medication.
Some prefer to use medication alone.
What Can I Expect If I Decide To Get Treatment?
Our clinic is not like a medical clinic. It is very comfortable and quiet. During your visit I will get a
history of your symptoms and make an assessment. I will discuss your options for treatment and
recommend a course of treatment. If I think medication might be helpful and you agree, we will
discuss your options for medication management. Next you will learn to manage the disorder using
techniques that will help you control thinking and behavior. An average number of sessions is
between 8 and 15. You can expect not only relief from the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, but
your self-esteem and self-confidence should rise also.
