TMS Therapy for OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is very complex and often very debilitating. Typical OCD symptoms are obsessive thoughts, and compulsive behaviors. Obsessions are usually mental repetition of certain words, phrases or other themes. These can take hours a day and greatly interfere with functioning. Compulsive behaviors often include checking, cleaning, counting, sorting and arranging.

A comprehensive evaluation is needed to diagnose OCD, available with any of our providers, either a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. Paper and pencil rating scales can help evaluate severity of the symptoms.

There are three primary treatments for OCD. The first is psychotherapy, usually either cognitive-behavioral (CBT), or exposure & response prevention (ERP). These are usually done with a clinical psychologist having a doctoral degree, meeting at least once per week. Treatment can take many weeks, months or longer, but can be very effective. “Homework” is usually assigned to practice techniques to reduce the time or frequency of OCD symptoms.

The second treatment is medication, typically in the serotonin-selective reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class, and four are FDA-approved for OCD. These include Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft and Luvox. Anafranil (clomipramine) is also approved for OCD and is an older medication. Many other medications are used “off-label” but can be very effective in reducing OCD symptoms.

The final OCD treatment is very high tech, using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) with a device FDA-cleared to treat OCD. The evaluation for TMS for OCD is covered by insurance as an in-network benefit. Prior auth is required for most insurance, and if not covered, sliding fee discounts are available for those with documented financial hardships.

TMS for OCD is painless and can be very effective because it brings results even after medications have failed to help. Like most medications for OCD, TMS is not a “cure,” however it is effective treatment that can substantially reduce the severity of OCD symptoms and restore maximum capacity to function.

The Best OCD Treatment in Ladera Ranch - Mission Viejo, CA

Coping with OCD can be challenging, but please know you are not alone. The Advanced TMS Center has treated many people with OCD and we understand the challenges.

If you think you have symptoms and behavior patterns that sound like OCD, please call the Advanced TMS Center at 949-768-2988. We can offer you support, understanding and the best OCD treatment.