OCD

Living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can feel exhausting, with intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors causing anxiety that affects your daily routine and peace of mind. At Active Healing Psychiatric Services in Gilbert, Arizona, Michaela Beaver, DNP, provides compassionate, personalized OCD treatments to address both the emotional and physical effects of the condition. Through an integrated approach to care, she helps you manage symptoms, reduce anxiety, and regain confidence in everyday life. Call today or book an appointment online to learn more about OCD treatment options.

How do I know if I have OCD?

Many people with OCD may initially believe they’re simply “overthinking” or struggling with anxiety. While anxiety is part of OCD, the condition involves more than occasional worry or stress. It’s characterized by recurring, intrusive thoughts, fears, urges, or mental images called obsessions. These obsessions can create significant emotional distress and often lead to compulsive behaviors or mental rituals performed to temporarily relieve anxiety.

For example, someone with OCD may repeatedly check locks, excessively clean, or mentally replay situations in an attempt to prevent something bad from happening. Even when you recognize that these thoughts or behaviors are irrational, they can still feel impossible to ignore or control. Over time, OCD can become emotionally draining, time-consuming, and disruptive to daily life.

What are common OCD obsessions and compulsions?

Common obsessions include:

• Fear of contamination, germs, or illness
• Worry about harm coming to yourself or others
• Intrusive thoughts about religion, sex, or morality
• An intense need for symmetry, order, or exactness
• Fear of making mistakes or losing control

Common compulsions of OCD include:

• Repetitive checking or counting
• Excessive cleaning or handwashing
• Ordering or arranging things in a specific way
• Repeating words, phrases, or routines
• Mental compulsions such as rumination or neutralizing thoughts

OCD may feel isolating, but effective treatment can help reduce the frequency and intensity of your symptoms while improving your quality of life. 

How is OCD treated?

Dr. Beaver personalizes OCD treatment based on symptoms, severity, and needs. She takes an integrated approach, combining evidence-based therapy, medication management, and holistic strategies that support emotional wellness and long-term wellness.

The goal of treatment isn’t to eliminate thoughts entirely, but to reduce your anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and help you respond to intrusive thoughts in healthier, less disruptive ways. With the right support, you can experience significant improvement and greater confidence in managing daily life.

When should I seek professional help for OCD?

Consider seeking professional help for OCD if you have intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviors that cause distress, interfere with daily life, or make it hard to function normally throughout the day. Many people wait years before seeking help because they feel embarrassed, ashamed, or unsure whether their symptoms are serious enough.

Are thoughts and compulsions taking over your life? Call Active Healing Psychiatric Services today or make an appointment online and start moving toward relief and recovery.