Introduction
Many people think of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as a condition where someone washes their hands constantly or keeps everything perfectly organized. While those can be signs of OCD, the reality is much more complex. OCD is a serious mental health disorder that affects how people think, feel, and behave. It can take many different forms and can interfere with daily life, relationships, and well-being.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 2.3% of adults in the United States will experience OCD at some point in their lives. That’s roughly 1 in 40 people. OCD can start in childhood or adolescence and often continues into adulthood. Understanding the different types of OCD can help reduce stigma, improve early recognition, and encourage people to seek effective treatment.

What Is OCD?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health condition made up of two key parts:

• Obsessions: These are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant distress or anxiety.
• Compulsions: These are repetitive behaviors or mental rituals performed in an attempt to relieve the anxiety caused by obsessions.

People with OCD feel driven to perform compulsions even if they know the behavior doesn’t make logical sense. The relief is usually temporary, and the cycle starts over again, leading to hours of rituals each day in severe cases.

It’s important to understand that OCD is not simply being tidy or liking things a certain way. It’s a mind condition that can be exhausting, time-consuming, and emotionally painful.

Common Types of OCD
OCD can look very different from person to person. Below are the most common subtypes, though many people experience symptoms from more than one category.

A. Contamination OCD
This is one of the most well-known types.

• Common obsessions: Fear of germs, viruses, chemicals, dirt, or bodily fluids
• Common compulsions: Excessive handwashing, avoiding touching objects, cleaning surfaces repeatedly, or refusing to shake hands
• Example: Someone may wash their hands 50 times a day after touching any object in public

Contamination OCD can also involve emotional contamination, such as feeling "dirty" after being around certain people or places.

B. Checking OCD
People with this type fear that they might cause harm to themselves or others through negligence or accident.

• Common obsessions: Worry about leaving the stove on, forgetting to lock the door, or causing a fire
• Common compulsions: Repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or emails; asking others for reassurance
• Example: Someone may spend hours each night checking that every window and door is locked, even if they know they already checked

C. Symmetry and Ordering OCD
This type involves a need for things to be symmetrical, ordered, or "just right."

• Common obsessions: Discomfort when things are uneven or out of place, or the feeling that something bad will happen if things aren’t aligned
• Common compulsions: Rearranging items, tapping or touching objects a certain number of times
• Example: A student may rewrite homework over and over until the handwriting looks perfect on the page

D. Intrusive Thoughts OCD (Pure O)
This is sometimes called "Pure O," though that name is misleading. While the compulsions are often internal (mental), they still exist.

• Common obsessions: Unwanted thoughts of violence, sexual content, blasphemy, or harming others
• Common compulsions: Mental rituals like counting, praying, or neutralizing thoughts; avoiding people or situations
• Example: A parent may have a terrifying intrusive thought about hurting their child and feel overwhelming guilt, even though they would never act on it

These thoughts are ego-dystonic, meaning they go against the person’s values and cause extreme distress.

E. Relationship OCD (ROCD)
This type centers on obsessive doubts and fears about one’s romantic relationship.

• Common obsessions: Worries about whether the partner is "the one," doubts about love, overanalyzing interactions
• Common compulsions: Seeking reassurance, mentally comparing to other relationships, testing feelings
• Example: Someone may constantly ask their partner, "Do you really love me?" or obsess over whether a single disagreement means the relationship is doomed

F. Hoarding (Now a separate diagnosis but closely related)
While hoarding used to be considered a subtype of OCD, it is now recognized as its own disorder. However, many people with OCD also hoard.

• Common obsessions: Fear of needing the item later, belief that items hold unique emotional value
• Common compulsions: Refusing to throw things away, collecting seemingly useless objects
• Example: Saving years of junk mail, clothing, or broken appliances because of anxiety about discarding them

What OCD Feels Like
Living with OCD is not just about behaviors; it’s about the emotions and suffering that come with them. People with OCD often feel:

• Trapped by their thoughts
• Exhausted from rituals
• Ashamed of their symptoms
• Frustrated by the need to hide their struggles

Imagine feeling like your mind is stuck on a loop, playing the same distressing message over and over, and the only way to stop it is to perform a ritual that may or may not work.

For example, one teen with OCD described spending hours each night re-reading her homework because she feared she might have included an offensive word by accident. Another adult client avoided knives altogether for fear she might lose control and hurt someone even though she never had a history of violence.

What OCD Is Not
To truly understand OCD, it’s important to clear up some common myths:

• OCD is not perfectionism: Wanting to do a good job is not the same as being driven by distressing obsessions and compulsions.
• OCD is not about being clean: Many people with OCD are not overly tidy. Others are, but it’s driven by fear, not preference.
• OCD is not quirky or cute: Media often portrays OCD in a lighthearted way, but the truth is that OCD can be debilitating and serious.

Stereotypes prevent people from seeking help and make it harder to get diagnosed accurately.

How Is OCD Treated?
The good news is that OCD is treatable. With the right support, many people learn to manage their symptoms and live full, meaningful lives.

A. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
The most effective therapy for OCD is a specific type of CBT called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP helps people gradually face their fears without doing their compulsions. Over time, the anxiety decreases.

• Example: A person afraid of germs might touch a doorknob and resist the urge to wash their hands.
• Success rate: Studies show that ERP is effective in about 60-80% of patients when done consistently with a trained therapist.

B. Medication
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most common medications used for OCD.

• Common choices: fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), sertraline (Zoloft)
• It may take 8-12 weeks to see full effects

For people with severe OCD or those who don’t respond to initial treatments, other medications or treatment strategies can be added.

C. Additional Treatments

• Group therapy or support groups can reduce isolation
• Family therapy helps parents and siblings understand how to support without enabling
• In rare, treatment-resistant cases, deep brain stimulation (DBS) or TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) may be considered

When to Get Help
It’s time to seek professional help if:

• Obsessions or compulsions take more than an hour a day
• Anxiety is interfering with work, school, or relationships
• The person is avoiding important parts of life due to fear
• There is significant distress, guilt, or hopelessness

Early treatment leads to better outcomes. The longer OCD goes untreated, the more it can take root and grow.

Conclusion
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is more than just a set of quirky habits. It’s a real mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the many types of OCD from contamination fears to relationship doubts helps break stigma and encourage compassion.

If you or someone you love is struggling with obsessions and compulsions, know that help is available. Effective treatments like ERP and medication can make a huge difference. You don’t have to live in fear or silence. Recovery is possible, and support is closer than you think.

At Your Family Psychiatrist in Houston, we specialize in diagnosing and treating OCD with compassion, evidence-based care, and personalized support. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward freedom from OCD.

​Everyone has mood swings.  There are highs, lows and everything in between.  A mood disorder is when someone experiences inordinately long periods of extreme emotion, which can be happiness or sadness or both.  The most common mood disorders are depression and bipolar disorder.
 
Depression
This is the more common mood disorder.  Depression can occur with a traumatic life event like loss of a loved one, loss of a job, major illness, etc.  It can also be spontaneous.   

• Postpartum depression – This is a depression associated with pregnancy and may occur during the pregnancy or following delivery.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder – This is sometimes referred to as dysthymia.  This is a depression that will last for two years or more.  The symptoms may lessen during that time, but although less severe, they still remain.
• Psychotic Depression – This is a severe form of the disorder that involves hallucinations and delusions.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – This is one you hear about generally during the winter especially if it is a winter with consistently overcast skies or weather that keeps people indoors.
• Medically Related – This comes about due to medication side effects, substance abuse or during a medical condition.

 
Bipolar Disorder
This has also been called manic-depression.  These are episodes of severe depression alternating with extreme activity and elation (mania).

• Bipolar I – Classified as the most severe form of the disease, the episodes will last a minimum of a week, depression will last for up to two weeks, and both the mania and depression can occur simultaneously.
• Bipolar II – This is a less severe form of the disease, but it can still be quite dysfunctional when untreated.  The mania is less intense and these people can frequently handle activities of daily living.
• Cyclothymia – People with this illness have continuous but irregular mood swings that may vary from mild to moderate levels but for extended periods of time.  There are usually only short periods of normalcy and the mood changes can occur quickly.
• Other – If someone has abnormal mood changes but does not fit into any of the above categories, it is placed in the catchall “other” diagnosis.  These include premenstrual dysphoric disorder and intermittent explosive disorder.

 
Symptoms
While the symptoms will vary depending on the type of mood disorder here are some indicators:

• Depression
  • Sadness daily or most of the time
  • Low to no energy
  • Feelings of low self worth
  • Loss of appetite, weight gain
  • Sleep issues
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Thoughts of death and suicide
• Bipolar
  • Unusually rapid speech or movements
  • Grandiosity
  • Agitation
  • Racing thoughts
  • Insomnia to the extreme
  • Feeling edgy for no apparent reason
  • Overly risk taking like gambling or reckless driving

 
The cause for mood disorders can include genetic (family history), biological, and environmental.  Bipolar disorders are associated with the structure and function in the brain.  Our psychiatrists in Houston are considered experts in mood disorders.  If you believe you may be experiencing a mood disorder, contact us today.

In today’s digital world, the journey toward better mental health often begins with a simple online search. In fact, studies show that nearly 80% of people search online for health-related information before making an appointment. That includes finding a therapist. Including relevant information on your website could make the difference between gaining a new patient and that patient choosing a competitor. Here are some important details to include:

1. A Clean, Organized Homepage
First impressions matter, especially online. A therapist’s homepage is like the front door to their practice. It should feel calm, organized, and welcoming.

A good therapist website has:

• A clear headline that tells you what kind of therapy is offered
• A brief summary of who the therapist helps (adults, teens, couples, families, etc.)
• An easy-to-read layout with just the right amount of information

Websites that are too cluttered or hard to follow can make patients feel overwhelmed. On the other hand, a clean homepage shows that the therapist understands how to communicate clearly, an important skill for any counselor.

A helpful homepage may say something like:
“I help adults in Houston who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, or life changes find peace and clarity through evidence-based therapy.”

That tells you exactly what to expect and whether the therapist might be a good match.

2. Easy Navigation and User-Friendly Menus
When you visit a therapist’s website, you shouldn’t have to click around for 15 minutes just to find a phone number or read about the therapist’s background.

A well-designed therapist website includes a menu or navigation bar that’s simple and clear. It should have sections like:

• About the Therapist
• Services Offered
• Insurance and Fees
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Contact Information
• Online Booking (if available)

If you can’t easily find what you’re looking for, it might be a sign that the website isn’t maintained well or worse, that the therapist isn’t responsive to new patients.

A good tip: Make sure there’s a mobile version too. Over 65% of people use their phone to search for medical or mental health providers. A mobile-friendly site shows professionalism and accessibility.

3. Simple, Human Language (Not Clinical Jargon)
Not everyone understands terms like “CBT,” “DBT,” or “trauma-informed therapy.” A good therapist website explains things in plain English without sounding robotic or overly technical.

Look for websites that say things like:

• “I help people who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck.”
• “We’ll work together to help you feel more in control of your emotions and daily life.”
• “Therapy can help you feel more confident and improve your relationships.”

When the language feels supportive and clear, it reflects the therapist’s ability to connect with real people not just write for professionals.

4. Information About the Therapist
You deserve to know who you’ll be talking to during sessions. A high-quality therapist website should include:

• A professional photo of the therapist (ideally smiling or neutral)
• Their education and credentials (such as LPC, LCSW, LMFT, or psychologist/psychiatrist)
• Any special training (such as trauma therapy, ADHD, or EMDR)
• A short personal message or philosophy about their approach to therapy

This information helps you feel more comfortable reaching out. It also gives you insight into whether their values and style match what you’re looking for.

According to the American Psychological Association, clients are more likely to stick with therapy if they feel a strong connection with their therapist early on. A thoughtful bio can be the first step in building that trust.

5. Clear Contact Information
When you’re ready to reach out, the process should be easy. A good therapist website will have:

• A “Contact” button at the top or bottom of every page
• An easy-to-fill-out form or direct email link
• A phone number for scheduling or questions
• Office address and hours (if in-person therapy is offered)

Some websites also include options for secure messaging or online booking, which can be especially helpful if you're nervous about making that first call.

Bonus points if the website mentions how quickly you can expect a response. Even something like “All messages will be returned within 24–48 hours” helps reduce anxiety.

6. A List of Specialties and Services Offered
Every therapist has different areas of focus. The best therapist websites clearly list what they specialize in so you don’t waste time guessing.

Common specialties might include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Trauma / PTSD
• ADHD
• Grief and loss
• Marriage or couples counseling
• Parenting support
• LGBTQ+ affirming therapy

The website should also state whether they work with children, teens, adults, or families. If you’re looking for something specific, like therapy for social anxiety or postpartum depression, make sure it’s clearly listed on the page.

7. Clear Information About Payment, Insurance, and Fees
Many people are hesitant to start therapy because they don’t understand how much it costs or whether their insurance will cover it.

A helpful website will explain:

• What insurance plans are accepted (if any)
• Self-pay rates for sessions
• Any payment plans or sliding scale options
• Whether they offer superbills (for out-of-network reimbursement)

Being upfront about pricing helps reduce confusion and makes mental health care feel more accessible. It also shows that the therapist respects your time and financial concerns.

8. Testimonials or Case Examples (If Allowed)
Not all therapists include testimonials, but when done ethically and with client consent, reading a success story can be reassuring.

Some therapists include anonymous quotes like:
“I finally feel like myself again after years of struggling with panic attacks. Therapy changed my life.”

Others may include general case examples or success stories that don’t reveal personal information. These can help prospective patients see what kind of progress is possible and give them hope.

9. An Educational Blog or Resources Section (Optional)
Some of the best therapist websites include blogs or resource libraries. These sections show that the therapist is engaged in the field, up to date on mental health topics, and willing to educate the public.

Look for topics like:

• “How to Know If You Have Anxiety”
• “Tips for Coping with Stress”
• “What to Expect from Your First Therapy Session”

A blog doesn’t have to be fancy, but it can be a sign that the therapist takes your questions seriously, even before you book a session.

Final Thoughts: What a Great Therapist Website Should Do
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when patients are already stressed or emotional. A good therapist website should make things easier, not harder.

The best websites:
✅ Are easy to navigate
✅ Speak in clear, human language
✅ Show the therapist’s training and personality
✅ List services and specialties
✅ Make it easy to get in touch

Everyone has times when they are sad, lose interest, or are anxious.  However, when these feelings persist, it can lead to a number of emotional and even physical problems.  As these feelings grow, the individual may develop difficulty with basic activities like personal hygiene and managing meals. 
 
Depression is a medical condition that can improve with treatment or decline with lack of intervention. 
 
It can begin as a result of a traumatic event like the loss of a loved one, divorce, unemployment, etc.  It can also be a result of a family history of mood disorders.  If as a child you experienced some traumatic event, there can be some lingering feelings that need to be resolved.  Medical conditions can also lead to a depressive state.  Sometimes these are medication induced and sometimes the realization that you are no longer in control of certain bodily functions.
 
The good news is this is a treatable condition.  There are some medications and certainly therapeutic remedies available.  Here are some of the more common symptoms of clinical depression.

• Sadness, gloom, excessive crying
• Feeling of emptiness
• Outbursts of anger, especially over trivial issues
• Excessive sleeping or continual insomnia
• Eating disorders like overeating or reduced appetite
• Loss of interest in a favorite activity or hobby
• Slow reactions like speaking or thinking; inability to follow conversations
• Thoughts or actions of self harm

 
There can be many differences in how children and adolescents experience depression.  This can include refusing to attend classes, insecurity shown through clinging to a person or object, and eating disorders.  Because of the extensive hormonal changes, teenage depression can sometimes be overlooked.  Some warning signs include sudden poor academic performance, use of recreational drugs or alcohol, and social isolation.
 
Likewise, older adults may often consider sadness a normal part of the aging process. This is incorrect. Some things to watch for are personality changes, avoiding group activities and gatherings, and, again, self harm.  Abrupt changes in the aging process is a sign that something is  wrong.  
 
If you feel that you are depressed, it is important to seek help from a reputable mental health professional.  If you simply have concerns, start by speaking with a trusted friend, relative, religious leader, or someone whose opinion you value.  There are also toll-free services for you to call and discuss your feelings.  These are manned by impartial but caring individuals who can help you understand your feelings and the next steps to take.
 
If you are a relative or friend, you can also find a service to help you cope with the situation.  There are reliable techniques that can be beneficial.
 
Any attempts at self harm should be taken seriously and place a call to 911 emergency services immediately. 

Depression counseling is effective for clinical depression. Depression can pose a serious mental health issue for those who suffer from it, and it can come in many forms such as:

• Major depressive order
• Persistent depressive order
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Postpartum depression
• Bipolar disorder

 
The symptoms include sadness, loss of enjoyment in things that previously held interest, difficulty concentrating and more.  However, depression responds quite well to therapeutic counseling and anti-depressant medications.  The individual will need to find an appropriate counselor, psychotherapist, or psychologist.  This professional will be able to help the person find the root cause of the problem and then develop effective strategies to cope with the situation and others that may arise in the future.
 
Treatment for depression is often called “talk therapy”.  Counseling is frequently the first step or even the solution for mild or moderate depression.  If the condition is severe, the patient may consider seeing a licensed psychiatrist for pharmaceuticals to bridge the gap.
 
The counselor will start by determining the extent of the depression and how long they have been experiencing it.  He or she will also determine the severity of the disorder.  If the onset is fairly recent and does not have deeper impact on other feelings, a counselor is a good choice.  On the other hand, with a more severe case, the patient may be referred to another therapist if a specific specialist is warranted.
 
The treatment will involve discussions between the patient and therapist to understand the underlying issues.  Homework assignments may be recommended to help track moods and situations.  The counselor will also adjust any sessions depending on the progress of the patient.  Another method is the use of interpersonal therapy that deals with conflict of personalities and with an inadequate social support system that can lead to depression.
 
The ultimate goal is to discover the underlying causes for these thoughts, feelings, and the resulting behaviors.  With that knowledge the individual can develop alternatives and coping mechanisms to work through current issues and to help with future situations.  This is a patient focused therapy where the individual is an active participant in the decisions.
 
An important factor is finding the right mental health professional that suits the patient.  Because the therapy is one-on-one and highly personal, it may take several tries before the connection is made.  Start by asking your family practice doctor or working through a mental health facility in your area.  When you have some names, go online and read about them.  Frequently they will list their preferred forms of treatment and specialties.  
 
The important thing to realize is that there is a good success rate in treating depression.  There are a number of different types of approaches and effective medications.  Getting help and resolving the problem is a reachable goal.  Call us today for an assessment.