OCD Treatment in Clinton, MD
Struggling with unwanted thoughts or repetitive behaviors? Learn the symptoms, causes, and how our specialists at Altitude Behavioral Care and Integrative Health can help you find relief.
What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition that causes recurring, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and urges to perform specific actions or routines (compulsions). At Altitude Behavioral Care and Integrative Health in Clinton, MD, we specialize in diagnosing and treating OCD with compassionate, evidence-based care.
Whether you’re dealing with constant worry about germs or feel the need to check things repeatedly, OCD can disrupt your daily life and relationships. But with proper treatment, people with OCD can regain control and improve their quality of life.
Whether you’re dealing with constant worry about germs or feel the need to check things repeatedly, OCD can disrupt your daily life and relationships. But with proper treatment, people with OCD can regain control and improve their quality of life.
What Are the Common Symptoms of OCD?
OCD symptoms typically include:
If you recognize these patterns in yourself or a loved one, it may be time to seek professional OCD help.
Types of Obsessions in OCD
At our Clinton-based behavioral health center, we often help individuals struggling with different types of obsessive thoughts, including:
Fear of Contamination
Persistent fear of germs, illness, or environmental contaminants.
Need for Symmetry or Order
A compulsion to arrange objects perfectly or ensure everything feels “just right.”
Harm or Intrusive Thoughts
Unwanted, distressing thoughts about causing harm, even without intent or desire.
Religious, Moral, or Sexual Obsessions
Involves taboo or culturally sensitive intrusive thoughts that feel disturbing to the person.
Types of Compulsions in OCD
Compulsions are ritualistic actions people perform to reduce anxiety. Some of the common compulsions we treat include:
Checking: Repeatedly checking doors, locks, or appliances
Washing and Cleaning: Frequent handwashing or excessive hygiene practices
Repeating or Counting: Performing tasks a certain number of times
Reassurance-Seeking: Constantly asking others for validation or comfort
These behaviors often consume hours of a person’s day and can severely affect their quality of life.
Washing and Cleaning: Frequent handwashing or excessive hygiene practices
Repeating or Counting: Performing tasks a certain number of times
Reassurance-Seeking: Constantly asking others for validation or comfort
These behaviors often consume hours of a person’s day and can severely affect their quality of life.
What Causes OCD?
While there’s no single cause of OCD, research shows several contributing factors:
Genetic Influence
A family history of OCD or related anxiety disorders increases your risk.
Brain Chemistry
Differences in brain function and neurotransmitter activity (especially serotonin) are often involved.
Environmental Stressors
Stressful life events, childhood trauma, or infections can sometimes trigger OCD symptoms.
At Altitude Behavioral Care and Integrative Health, we assess your full mental and physical history to identify contributing
factors before recommending a treatment plan.
factors before recommending a treatment plan.
How Is OCD Diagnosed in Clinton, MD?
We offer comprehensive OCD assessments right here in Clinton, Maryland. Diagnosis typically includes:
A clinical interview with one of our licensed providers
Symptom evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria
Review of how symptoms affect your daily life
If your obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors are taking up significant time or causing emotional distress, you may benefit from OCD treatment.
Symptom evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria
Review of how symptoms affect your daily life
If your obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors are taking up significant time or causing emotional distress, you may benefit from OCD treatment.
Your OCD Treatment Options in Clinton, MD
At Altitude Behavioral Care and Integrative Health, we offer a personalized, whole-person approach to treating OCD. Our services include:
Our providers are trained in the latest evidence-based techniques to help you gain control over obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
When to Seek Help for OCD
You don’t have to suffer in silence. If your symptoms:
Take more than one hour per day
Cause distress or interfere with your relationships
Prevent you from functioning at work or school
…then it’s time to speak with a professional.
Cause distress or interfere with your relationships
Prevent you from functioning at work or school
…then it’s time to speak with a professional.
OCD FAQs – Answered by Our Clinton, MD Specialists
1
Can you have OCD without compulsions?
Yes. Some people experience obsessive thoughts without noticeable outward behaviors—commonly referred to as “Pure O” OCD.
2
Is OCD just about being neat or organized?
No. OCD is far more than perfectionism—it’s a serious mental health condition that causes anxiety and distress.
3
Is OCD a lifelong condition?
OCD is chronic, but symptoms can be managed effectively with therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Quality Psychiatric Care
Without Long Waits
Without Long Waits
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Get OCD Help in Clinton, MD
Early intervention can significantly improve your long-term outlook. With support from Altitude Behavioral Care and Integrative Health, you can learn to manage OCD and live a more peaceful, fulfilling life.