The OCD and Related Disorders Program strives to deliver evidence-based treatment to patients in need while simultaneously conducting research to advance our knowledge of the causes, consequences, and treatments of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Chronic Tic Disorder (CTD), Hoarding, Hair Pulling and Skin Picking, and Olfactory Reference Syndrome (ORS).
The MGH OCD and Related Disorders Program provides state-of-the-art outpatient care for people with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders. We offer both cognitive-behavioral therapy (i.e., exposure and response prevention [ERP] and cognitive therapy) and medication treatment. We also provide one-time consultations, evaluations, and follow-up care. Treatment delivered in the context of research studies is usually provided at no cost to our patients. For more information about our program please go to our website: /ocd
The OCD and Related Disorders Program Massachusetts General HospitalSimches Research Building185 Cambridge Street, Suite 2000Boston, MA 02114Phone: 617-726-6766  Maps & directions
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric illness characterized by persistent and intrusive obsessions and/or repetitive, time-consuming compulsions.
Obsessions are recurrent, intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses that feel inappropriate and distressing to the individual. They are not simply excessive concerns about every day problems. Some common obsessions are:
Compulsions are behaviors that one performs over and over again in an attempt to reduce the anxiety associated with an obsession or prevent a feared outcome. Some common compulsions are:
Most often, people with OCD experience intrusive and disturbing obsessions and then perform rituals to reduce their anxiety and/or prevent something bad from happening. For example, someone with an excessive fear of germs or contamination may attempt to reduce their anxiety and prevent themselves (or others) from getting sick by washing their hands for several hours a day. Such behaviors can be extremely time-consuming and usually only provide temporary relief to the OCD sufferer's anxiety.
OCD can develop at any age, though in the majority of people symptoms begin before the age of 25. In adulthood, OCD affects men and women about equally. It is more common among boys when it develops during childhood.
How Can I Tell If I Have OCD?
If you answer yes to the following questions you may have OCD. Please note, however, that only a qualified clinician can provide you with a definitive diagnosis.
Our program specializes in providing evidence-based treatment for adults, adolescents and children with OCD. We offer both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication in our clinic and in the context of research studies.