OCD Treatment for Children and Teens
Child and Adolescent Treatment for OCD in NYC
Dr. Chamorro is an expert in the assessment and treatment of OCD in children and teenagers. In addition to her work in private practice, she is the Course Director for the Anxiety, OCD, and Tics Fellowship Training Program at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai where she supervises psychiatry fellows in OCD, anxiety, and tic treatment for children and teens. Dr. Chamorro is passionate about helping children and teens overcome the challenges of OCD, and she applies scientifically supported interventions to help them learn to manage their symptoms and develop effective coping strategies that can be used for a lifetime.
Understanding CBT and ERP for OCD
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are evidence-based treatments specifically designed to address the symptoms of OCD. These therapeutic methods have been widely recognized for their effectiveness in managing and reducing OCD symptoms. CBT with ERP is the gold standard treatment for OCD. CBT focuses on identifying and modifying the thoughts and beliefs that contribute to obsessions and compulsions. It also involves helping kids learning effective skills and strategies to manage anxiety and reduce compulsive behaviors.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for OCD Treatment
CBT focuses on helping kids identify and modify the negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to OCD. Through collaborative discussions and practical exercises, we work together to challenge and reframe certain thoughts and develop healthier coping strategies. CBT equips kids with the tools and skills needed to recognize obsessive thoughts and resist engaging in compulsive behaviors, which often leads to positive change.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD Treatment
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a specialized form of CBT specifically designed for OCD. ERP aims to break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions by gradually exposing kids to challenging situations or triggers while reducing or refraining from rituals or compulsions. This process allows kids to create new learning about safety and often leads to diminished anxiety over time. Dr. Chamorro always uses a compassionate approach with ERP and works with each patient to determine a pace that feels right for them.
SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) Treatment for Children
SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) Treatment is an evidence-based approach that empowers parents to effectively support their anxious children. It is especially helpful for younger children or for children who have difficulty engaging directly in treatment because the parents attend sessions and are coached and guided by the therapist in treatment. By cultivating a compassionate and accepting atmosphere, parents create a safe space for their children to express their fears. Through active listening and validation, parents promote emotional resilience and reduce anxiety. They also learn to encourage their child's autonomy, gradually exposing them to anxiety-provoking situations while offering guidance and support. By modeling self-care and healthy coping strategies, parents create a positive family environment that fosters independence, emotional regulation, and overall well-being in their children.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for OCD
ACT focuses on helping kids and teens develop greater acceptance of anxiety and uncomfortable thoughts without judgment or attempts to control them. By learning mindfulness skills and identifying personal values, kids can develop more flexibility and become better equipped to manage the distress caused by OCD.
What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts, images, or obsessions, often accompanied by repetitive behaviors or compulsions. These obsessions and compulsions can significantly interfere with daily life, causing distress and anxiety. Individuals with OCD often experience a sense of compulsion to repeat certain actions or rituals to alleviate their anxiety temporarily. However, these behaviors provide only short-term relief and can lead to a cycle of obsessions and compulsions.
Symptoms of OCD:
The primary symptoms of OCD are intrusive thoughts or obsessions that are distressing and persistent and compulsive behaviors or rituals that the individual engages in to try to reduce anxiety.
Types of OCD include:
Fear of contamination or excessive concern with cleanliness
Need for symmetry, order, or precise arrangements
Intrusive, unwanted thoughts of causing harm to oneself or others
Excessive checking, counting, or reassurance-seeking behaviors
Religious or moral fears
What Causes OCD?
While the exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, it is believed to be a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.
Dr. Chamorro understands that every individual's experience with OCD is unique. Through a compassionate and personalized approach, she collaborates with children, teens, and their families to develop an effective treatment plan that aims to improve symptoms, coping skills, and overall emotional well-being.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation call and learn more about how treatment can help.
