OCD Psychiatrist in Red Bank, NJ: Get Effective Treatment and Reclaim Your Life
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that trigger intense anxiety or distress. People with OCD often struggle to dismiss or ignore these obsessions, which can lead to significant emotional and mental discomfort.
Individuals with OCD also experience compulsive behaviors, which are repetitive actions performed in an effort to neutralize or reduce the anxiety caused by obsessive thoughts or urge.
If you or someone you love is struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, an OCD psychiatrist can help. Turn to Dr. Deepti Varma at Coastal Psychiatry in Red Bank, New Jersey, for an effective and personalized treatment plan.
Common Signs and Symptoms of OCD
Many people experience some degree of obsessive thinking at one time or another during their lives. Sometimes, they also strongly prefer to have things a certain way and will state that they are “OCD.”Yet OCD is much more than a desire for order or neatness. It involves persistent, intrusive thoughts that drive individuals to engage in repetitive, ritualistic behaviors to ease their anxiety. Over time, these compulsions can create a rigid set of routines that dominate a person’s daily life and overall sense of control.
According to the Mayo Clinic, some common signs of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder are:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Thoughts that you might be harmed
- Thoughts that you might cause others harm
- Fear of contamination
- Constant checking
- Constantly checking the stove or door locks
- Constant counting
- The repeated cleaning of one or more items
- Hoarding
OCD symptoms can vary in severity, but when they begin to disrupt your daily life, it may be time to consult with a psychiatrist for OCD in Red Bank.
Potential Causes of OCD
OCD develops from a complex interplay of factors, including genetic, neurological, behavioral, cognitive, and environmental influences. Genetics play a key role and having a family history of OCD can significantly raise the likelihood of developing the condition.
Neurological factors, such as imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin, also contribute to its onset. Additionally, certain behaviors may be learned and reinforced over time, especially when they temporarily reduce anxiety, further perpetuating the cycle of OCD.
Cognitive factors can also play a role in causing OCD. These include distorted thinking patterns, such as overestimating threats. Another contributor to OCD is environmental triggers, such as trauma, abuse, or significant life changes.
When to See an OCD Psychiatrist in Red Bank
Getting treatment from an OCD psychiatrist is crucial when obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors start to interfere with daily life. If you find yourself spending excessive time on rituals, experiencing significant distress, or noticing a decline in work, school, or social functioning, it's time for help.
If you have attempted self-help strategies without success or if OCD symptoms are causing anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, an OCD psychiatrist can provide specialized treatment. Early intervention is key.
Options for Treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
With Coastal Psychiatry in Red Bank, you'll get a personalized and evidence-based treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder. Our approach is rooted in clinical research and tailored to the individual needs of each client. OCD is highly treatable, and with the right support, lasting relief is possible. Treatment options include:
Medication Management
Psychiatric medication can play a key role in reducing OCD symptoms. At Coastal Psychiatry, we specialize in prescribing and managing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are commonly used to regulate the brain’s serotonin levels and decrease obsessive thoughts and compulsive urges.
Dr. Varma carefully monitors each patient’s response to medication, adjusting as needed to ensure optimal results with minimal side effects. For those who do not respond to first-line treatments, alternative medications or combination strategies may be considered.
Referrals for Evidence-Based Therapy
While medication can be highly effective, it is often most successful when combined with structured psychotherapy. We take an integrated approach to OCD treatment and collaborate with trusted therapists in the Red Bank area. We provide referrals to specialists who offer evidence-based modalities such as:
· Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – A gold-standard treatment that helps clients identify and reframe distorted thought patterns while learning healthier responses to anxiety triggers.
· Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) – A specific form of CBT, ERP is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating OCD. It involves gradual exposure to feared situations while preventing the usual compulsive response, helping the brain learn that anxiety naturally decreases over time without the ritual.
Integrated and Collaborative Care
We believe that a collaborative treatment plan yields the best outcomes. Whether you begin with medication, therapy, or both, we coordinate care to ensure you receive seamless, comprehensive support. By addressing both the biological and behavioral aspects of OCD, we help clients achieve improved emotional health and greater day-to-day functioning. No two cases of OCD are alike. That’s why Coastal Psychiatry customizes every treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each client we serve in Red Bank.
Request an Appointment With a Licensed OCD Psychiatrist in Red Bank
If you are struggling with OCD and are ready for help from a psychiatrist, turn to Dr. Varma at Coastal Psychiatry. We work with individuals across the Red Bank, NJ, area, providing personalized strategies that help to restore quality of life. Request your appointment with an OCD psychiatrist today.