Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Dr. Nafisi treats Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) using evidence-based therapies like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). This approach helps individuals confront intrusive thoughts without resorting to compulsive behaviors, leading to lasting relief and improved quality of life.
Understanding OCD
OCD is a mental health condition characterized by unwanted and consistent thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety. These behaviors often interfere with daily life and functioning. Some of the common themes that those with OCD tend to have, include: worry about harming others, concern that harm will befall loved ones, fear of losing control of one’s own behavior, fear of bodily fluids, germs or other contaminants, unwanted or taboo thoughts about sex, and spinning over thoughts of doubt or uncertainty. While people with OCD generally tend to have commonalities, each person with the disorder presents with unique thoughts and symptoms.
Treatment works best by understanding the thoughts and the urges to engage in certain behaviors in order to reduce short-term discomforts. Treatment then helps people practice staying in that zone of discomfort without engaging in the behavior to reduce short-term anxiety. Over time and through behavioral practice, we teach our brains that we can tolerate the thoughts without acting, we are in control of our own behaviors, and that the thoughts are not necessarily tied to the feared outcomes.
A message of hope: OCD is a treatable anxiety disorder that responds very well to behavioral therapy. If you learn these methods now, you will get so much of your time and peace of mind back and there is good reason to believe you will feel better prepared to handle any future anxiety that might come your way.
