OCD Treatment in NYC

Expert OCD Treatment in NYC: Specializing in CBT and ERP

Dr. Chamorro is an expert in the assessment and treatment of OCD in children, teenagers, and adults. In addition to her work in private practice, she is the Course Director for the Anxiety, OCD, and Tics Fellowship Training Program at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Dr. Chamorro is passionate about helping people overcome the challenges of OCD, and she applies scientifically supported interventions to help people learn to manage their symptoms and develop effective coping strategies that can be used for a lifetime.

Understanding CBT and ERP for OCD

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are evidence-based treatments specifically designed to address the symptoms of OCD. These therapeutic methods have been widely recognized for their effectiveness in managing and reducing OCD symptoms. CBT with ERP is the gold standard treatment for OCD. CBT focuses on identifying and modifying the thoughts and beliefs that contribute to obsessions and compulsions. It also involves learning effective skills and strategies to manage anxiety and reduce compulsive behaviors.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for OCD Treatment

CBT focuses on identifying and modifying the negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to OCD. Through collaborative discussions and practical exercises, we work together to challenge and reframe certain thoughts and develop healthier coping strategies. CBT equips individuals with the tools and skills needed to recognize obsessive thoughts and resist engaging in compulsive behaviors, which often leads to positive change.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD Treatment

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a specialized form of CBT specifically designed for OCD. ERP aims to break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions by gradually exposing individuals to challenging situations or triggers while reducing or refraining from the corresponding rituals or compulsions. This process allows individuals to create new learning about safety and often leads to diminished anxiety over time. Dr. Chamorro always uses a compassionate approach with ERP and works with each patient to determine a pace that feels right for them.

Benefits of CBT and ERP for OCD

By integrating CBT and ERP techniques, we can achieve significant improvements in managing and overcoming OCD. The benefits of CBT and ERP for OCD treatment include:

  • Reduction in obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

  • Increased understanding and awareness of triggers and thought patterns.

  • Development of effective coping mechanisms to manage anxiety.

  • Improvement in overall quality of life and daily functioning.

  • Enhanced ability to face fears and engage in activities previously avoided.

  • Long-term results and skills that can be applied throughout life.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for OCD

ACT focuses on helping individuals develop greater acceptance of anxiety and uncomfortable thoughts without judgment or attempts to control them. By learning mindfulness skills and identifying personal values, individuals develop greater psychological flexibility and are better equipped to manage the distress caused by OCD. Dr. Chamorro incorporates elements of ACT into OCD treatment to help individuals develop resistance, acceptance, and a greater range of coping strategies.

What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts, images, or obsessions, often accompanied by repetitive behaviors or compulsions. These obsessions and compulsions can significantly interfere with daily life, causing distress and anxiety. Individuals with OCD often experience a sense of compulsion to repeat certain actions or rituals to alleviate their anxiety temporarily. However, these behaviors provide only short-term relief and can lead to a cycle of obsessions and compulsions.

Symptoms of OCD:

The primary symptoms of OCD are intrusive thoughts or obsessions that are distressing and persistent and compulsive behaviors or rituals that the individual engages in to try to reduce anxiety.

Types of OCD include:

  • Fear of contamination or excessive concern with cleanliness

  • Need for symmetry, order, or precise arrangements

  • Intrusive, unwanted thoughts of causing harm to oneself or others

  • Excessive checking, counting, or reassurance-seeking behaviors

  • Religious or moral fears

What Causes OCD?

While the exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, it is believed to be a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.

Expert OCD Treatment

Dr. Chamorro understands that every individual's experience with OCD is unique. Through a compassionate and personalized approach, she collaborates with her patients to develop an effective treatment plan that aims to improve symptoms, coping skills, and overall emotional well-being.

Reach out today to schedule a consultation call and learn more about how treatment can help.