OCD is more than liking things neat. It's unwanted thoughts that won't let go, and the urge to do something, like checking, cleaning, counting, or seeking reassurance, to make the distress go away. The relief doesn't last, so the cycle repeats and can take up hours of your day.
Many people with OCD hide it for years out of embarrassment. You don't have to. Our board-certified psychiatric providers treat OCD in teens and adults across Washington State.
Common signs of OCD
- Intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that feel upsetting or out of character
- Repeated checking, washing, counting, or arranging
- Needing things to feel "just right" before you can move on
- Seeking reassurance over and over
- Rituals that take up a lot of time or get in the way of daily life
Treatment options
OCD responds well to treatment. Certain medications are effective at reducing obsessions and compulsions, though they're often used at different doses than for depression and can take longer to show their full effect. We'll explain what to expect and follow up closely.
Therapy with a specialist trained in exposure and response prevention (ERP) is one of the most effective treatments for OCD. We're glad to coordinate with your therapist or help you look for one.
How care works with us
- Start with an evaluation. Your first visit is a full psychiatric evaluation, about an hour, by secure video or in person in Lakewood when available.
- Build a plan together. You'll hear what we think is going on, your options, and the reasoning behind any recommendation.
- Ongoing follow up. If medication is part of your plan, we monitor and adjust it through regular medication management visits.
- Work with your therapist. We don't provide therapy, but many of our patients see a therapist, and we're glad to coordinate with yours.
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or call 911. We are an outpatient practice and can't provide emergency care.
Frequently asked questions
Is OCD treatable?
Yes. With the right medication, therapy, or both, most people see meaningful improvement.
How long does OCD medication take to work?
It can take 8 to 12 weeks to see the full effect, which is longer than for some other conditions. We check in regularly along the way.
Do you treat teens with OCD?
Yes. We see patients ages 13 and up.
Can OCD be treated by telehealth?
Yes. Evaluation and medication management work well by secure video anywhere in Washington.
Ready to get started?
Book online in a few minutes, call us, or leave your details below and our team will call you to schedule. Telehealth anywhere in Washington State. Most major insurance accepted.
Request received.
Our team will reach out within one business day to get you scheduled.