Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common problem that can become severely debilitating for many. Barry J. Richman, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist practicing OCD Treatment in NYC, who has the skills and experience to create individualized treatment plans for each patient that take into account every influence on the development of their OCD. Dr. Richman designs therapeutic approaches that address any underlying causes and offer the best possible hope for relief. Along with helping patients struggling with OCD, Dr. Richman is also recognized for providing the Best Panic disorder treatment in New York, ensuring comprehensive care for those dealing with anxiety-related conditions. If your obsessions and compulsions are getting out of control, call Barry J. Richman MD Psychiatry today to arrange a consultation, or book an appointment online.
What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, is a chronic mental health condition that has two key aspects: obsessions and compulsions.
Obsessions are unwanted, unpleasant, and uncontrollable thoughts that intrude on your mind repeatedly, while compulsions are actions that you feel compelled to carry out, often many times over.
People who have OCD can have either obsessions or compulsions, or both at the same time. The symptoms of OCD can become so disruptive to daily life that they affect your ability to work, study, and maintain relationships with friends and family.
What thoughts become obsessions for people with OCD?
Obsessions are thoughts, ideas, and images in your mind that you can’t shake off, and make you anxious. Common examples of obsessions include:
- Fear of dirt and germs
- Intrusive, unwanted thoughts involving sex or religion
- Thoughts and images of violence and taboo activities
- Urges to commit violent actions or actions that are out of character
Obsessions that other people might notice or become aware of might include the need to have everything around you perfectly ordered and symmetrical.
What behaviors become compulsions for people with OCD?
Compulsions are actions that you feel unable to stop yourself from carrying out and are often a response to an obsessive thought. Common compulsions include:
- Excessive cleaning
- Repetitive handwashing
- Constant ordering of possessions
- Constantly checking the oven is off or the door is locked
- Counting
Many people who have compulsions need to perform a ritual before leaving a room or building, such as turning a light switch off a set number of times.
What treatments are available for people who have OCD?
Dr. Richman uses both medication and psychotherapy to help patients who have OCD. Medications such as the newer class of antidepressants known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) like fluoxetine, as well as older tricyclic antidepressants like clomipramine, are effective for many patients. If these don’t help, some patients may respond to a course of atypical antipsychotic medications.
Psychotherapies such as CBT (cognitive behavior therapy) and habit reversal training can be very effective in treating patients who have OCD. A form of CBT called exposure and response prevention (EX/RP) is also effective in reducing compulsive behavior.
If you’re concerned about obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors that you can’t seem to control, call Barry J. Richman MD Psychiatry today about OCD treatment options, or book an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is a trusted OCD psychiatrist in NYC?
Dr. Barry J. Richman, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist in Manhattan who specializes in diagnosing and treating obsessive-compulsive disorder. As an OCD psychiatrist NYC patients seek out, he builds individualized treatment plans that account for every influence on how a patient’s OCD developed, rather than applying a generic protocol.
2. What does it mean to see a psychiatrist specializing in OCD?
A psychiatrist specializing in OCD has specific clinical experience distinguishing obsessions from compulsions, understanding their many presentations, and matching patients to the medications and therapies most likely to help. Dr. Richman’s approach reflects this focused expertise rather than general psychiatric care.
3. What are the symptoms of OCD?
OCD involves two components: obsessions (intrusive, unwanted thoughts — such as fear of contamination or urges toward violent or taboo ideas) and compulsions (repetitive actions like excessive cleaning, checking, or counting). Patients may experience obsessions, compulsions, or both, and symptoms can significantly disrupt work, study, and relationships.
4. Are there OCD specialists in NYC who also treat related anxiety conditions?
Yes. Among OCD specialists in NYC, Dr. Richman also provides care for panic disorder and other anxiety-related conditions, offering comprehensive treatment for patients whose OCD symptoms overlap with broader anxiety.
5. What does Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) therapy in NYC typically involve?
OCD therapy in NYC often combines psychotherapy — particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and a specialized form called exposure and response prevention (EX/RP) — with habit reversal training. These approaches are designed to reduce both obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
6. What medications are used to treat OCD?
Dr. Richman often starts with SSRIs such as fluoxetine, or older tricyclic antidepressants like clomipramine. If these don’t provide sufficient relief, some patients respond well to a course of atypical antipsychotic medications alongside their existing treatment.
7. Who are considered among the best OCD doctors in NYC?
The best OCD doctors in NYC typically combine psychiatric medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy, tailored to the individual patient. Dr. Richman is recognized for exactly this dual approach, addressing both the biological and behavioral aspects of OCD.
8. How do I get evaluated for OCD in Manhattan?
Call Barry J. Richman MD Psychiatry at 212-889-5463 or book online. A comprehensive consultation is the first step toward an accurate diagnosis and a personalized OCD treatment plan.
