Mental Health Treatment Support
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts, obsessions, and/or compulsions that interfere with daily functioning. It can cause significant distress and impact quality of life. ODC affects not just adults, but children and teens as well.
At Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care, our team of dedicated professionals provides comprehensive care for individuals in the Pittsburgh area suffering from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We aim to help individuals better manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. We specialize in evidence-based Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder therapy, and as a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr. Muhammad Shaikh is experienced in providing medication management when needed for both children and adults.
Our OCD treatment centers strive to provide a safe environment that helps individuals develop new skills to cope with their condition, and our hybrid telemedicine and in-person model of care ensures that you’re receiving treatment however it’s most comfortable. If you, your child, or your teen is struggling with OCD, reach out today to learn more about how we can help.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) manifests differently for everyone, including children and teens. It is often misunderstood as a disorder that only involves extremely frequent handwashing or other behaviors, but OCD can manifest in many ways. While some people may struggle with an intense fear of germs, others may have repetitive rituals they must perform such as counting or tapping objects.
Some of the most common OCD symptoms include:
At Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care, our team is experienced in treating individuals with OCD. We utilize evidence-based treatments that have been proven to be successful in managing symptoms of this condition. Our treatment approach includes:
A diagnosis of OCD is made by a mental health professional based on an evaluation of the individual’s symptoms. This typically includes discussion about past and present experiences, as well as a mental health assessment.
For children and teens with OCD, a diagnosis may also involve input from parents, teachers, and other caregivers.
The exact cause of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is not known, but research suggests that a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors may contribute to the development of the disorder. Biological causes include genetics, brain chemistry and environmental stressors. Psychological causes include poor coping skills and disrupted thought patterns. Environmental influences can include traumatic experiences or significant life changes.
Medication can be an effective way to help manage the symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed medications for OCD, and they work by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain that helps regulate mood and behavior. Antidepressants such as clomipramine and fluvoxamine are also used to treat OCD. It's important to note that medication should always be taken under the guidance of a medical professional.
At Stepping Stones, we make it easy to get started on the road to feeling better and living well. Just request an appointment with us using our simple online form.