Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), AZ
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition marked by intrusive, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors that can feel difficult to control. These symptoms are not habits or personality traits. They are driven by anxiety and can interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall functioning.
At Gilbert Chandler Psychiatrists, OCD is treated by experienced psychiatric providers, including Dr. Mark Feinstein, DO, who brings decades of clinical psychiatry experience, and Brittany Khoury, PMHNP, known for her collaborative, patient-centered approach.
People with OCD are often aware that their thoughts do not reflect who they are. Even so, the distress can feel persistent.
With evidence-based care, many individuals experience meaningful improvement in symptoms and greater day-to-day stability.
What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
OCD is characterized by a recurring cycle of intrusive thoughts and anxiety-driven responses. These thoughts are ego-dystonic, meaning they feel unwanted and inconsistent with a person’s values.
OCD exists on a spectrum. Some people experience visible behaviors, while others struggle mainly with internal thoughts and mental rituals.
To reduce distress, individuals may engage in behaviors or mental rituals. While these responses may provide short-term reassurance, they often strengthen the OCD cycle over time.
Obsessions and Compulsions: How OCD Shows Up
OCD symptoms generally fall into two interconnected patterns:
Obsessions may include:
- Repetitive, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges
- Thoughts that cause fear, doubt, or distress
- Difficulty tolerating uncertainty
- Thoughts that feel out of character or unwanted
Compulsions may include:
- Repeated checking, cleaning, or reassurance-seeking
- Mental rituals such as counting, reviewing, or repeating phrases
- Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety
- Behaviors meant to reduce distress, even when recognized as excessive
Some individuals experience OCD primarily as intrusive thoughts without visible behaviors, often referred to as “Pure OCD.”
Common Signs and Symptoms of OCD
OCD symptoms can vary widely, but often include:
- Persistent intrusive thoughts that feel hard to control
- Repetitive behaviors or mental rituals
- Spending significant time on compulsions
- Difficulty tolerating uncertainty
- Interference with work, relationships, or sleep
How OCD Is Diagnosed
OCD is diagnosed through a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, not a single test. Diagnosis typically includes:
- A detailed clinical interview
- Review of symptom patterns and duration
- Discussion of functional impact on daily life
- Use of structured questionnaires when appropriate
Building trust and a strong therapeutic relationship is essential, as accurate diagnosis depends on open discussion of symptoms without fear of judgment.
When Should You Seek Professional Help for OCD?
You may want to seek care if:
- OCD symptoms take up significant time each day
- Anxiety or distress is increasing
- Compulsions interfere with work, relationships, or sleep
- You feel stuck in repetitive cycles despite trying to manage on your own
Early support can make treatment more effective.
Evidence-Based Treatment Options for OCD
OCD is best treated using evidence-based approaches that focus on changing how the brain responds to intrusive thoughts. Treatment plans are personalized and may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both, depending on symptom severity, patient preferences, and prior treatment history.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps patients recognize patterns between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and develop healthier responses to intrusive thoughts.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold-standard treatment for OCD. It involves gradual exposure to feared thoughts or situations while reducing compulsive behaviors, helping the brain tolerate uncertainty over time.
Medication may be used alongside therapy for some individuals. This typically includes higher-dose SSRIs, selected and monitored carefully to support symptom improvement and therapy engagement
OCD Treatment at Gilbert Chandler Psychiatrists
At Gilbert Chandler Psychiatrists, OCD care is:
- Evidence-based and individualized
- Focused on ERP-informed therapy and thoughtful medication use
- Built around patient empowerment and self-agency
- Guided by strong therapeutic relationships
Book An Appointment
We provide complimentary consultation. One of our experienced doctors will discuss your concerns and provide guidance.
Call Us on (480) 256-9322 or fill the form below to receive a call back.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is OCD just about cleanliness or organization?
No. OCD is driven by intrusive thoughts and anxiety, not preferences for order or cleanliness.
Can OCD exist without visible compulsions?
Yes. Some individuals experience intrusive thoughts without outward behaviors, often called “Pure OCD”.
Can OCD improve without treatment?
OCD symptoms may fluctuate, but evidence-based treatment significantly improves long-term outcomes.
How long does OCD treatment take?
Treatment length varies. Some people notice improvement within weeks, while others benefit from longer-term care.
Is medication always required for OCD?
No. Many individuals improve with therapy alone. Medication is considered when symptoms are more severe or persistent.
Does ERP make symptoms worse?
ERP can feel uncomfortable at first, but it is done gradually and safely. Over time, it leads to reduced anxiety and improved control.
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