OCD Specialist
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition that causes repetitive, unwanted thoughts and irrational urges or behaviors. Even though you may be aware of your obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, you feel you have no control over them. Robert Jaffe, Ph.D, LMFT, in Encino, California, takes a holistic approach to therapy and customizes care for OCD. To take control of your OCD, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
OCD Q&A
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that causes persistent unwanted thoughts (obsessive) and irrational and excessive behaviors (compulsive).
OCD affects people of all ages. Though researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of OCD, it’s theorized that genetics, environment, and brain structure and function may play a role in developing the mental health condition.
Symptoms of OCD may include obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, or both. These symptoms usually occur regularly, affecting the quality of life.
Obsessive thoughts
Obsessive thoughts include unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that trigger anxiety. Obsessive thoughts may consist of fear of germs, ongoing thoughts about turning off the stove or faucet, or the need to have things in a particular order.
Compulsive behaviors
Compulsive behaviors are the repetitive acts you perform to ease the anxiety brought on by your obsessive thoughts. These may include excessively washing hands, checking the stove several times before leaving the house, or constantly fixing things, so they’re in the proper order.
Mental checking is also a compulsive behavior. Mental checking refers to the mental exercises you engage in to look for your obsessive thought and stop it before it stops you.
Your OCD symptoms may come and go or get better or worse over time. Reaching out for help from Dr. Jaffe may help you control your OCD and ease your anxiety.
Psychotherapy is one of the primary treatments for OCD. Dr. Jaffe is a highly experienced psychotherapist who takes a holistic approach to care.
During your first therapy session, Dr. Jaffe spends time listening to your story, asking questions to understand your needs better. He provides feedback and makes suggestions on the areas he’d like to focus on during therapy.
Together, you and Dr. Jaffe create your therapy plan, including the frequency of your visits. During therapy, Dr. Jaffe customizes your treatment to achieve the best relief from your OCD symptoms.
In addition to using a wide range of therapeutic techniques, Dr. Jaffe may suggest clinical hypnosis as a treatment option for your OCD. Clinical hypnosis may help change your thoughts and behaviors, easing your anxiety.
Don’t let your OCD control your life; call the office of Robert Jaffe, Ph.D, LMFT, or schedule an appointment online today.
Call Today to Request Your Appointment
818-906-7079