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OCD Support Group
- It is held on the last Friday of every month at 7:30 PM.
- Friends and family welcome!
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Need directions?
(Click here)
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What is Behavioral/Cognitive Therapy?
In addition to other areas of expertise, psychologists at the Bio-Behavioral Institute are trained as behavior and cognitive therapists.
Behavior therapy teaches patients how to reduce, control, or eliminate their maladaptive behaviors. Behavior therapy differs from other forms of therapy in that the method of treatment has been experimentally tested and scientifically found to be effective. It teaches methods and techniques on how to change rather than relying on pure awareness of underlying problems. The treatment is essentially a learning and unlearning process. Often, the individual sees results of this therapy early in treatment.
Most people think of behavior therapy in connection with treatment of extreme fears and phobias; however, behavior therapy has been demonstrated to be beneficial for other problems such as panic disorder, agoraphobia, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and childhood and family problems. There is increasing evidence that behavior therapy may alter brain chemistry functioning similar to medication.
Specialized intensive behavior therapy programs are provided for obsessive compulsive spectrum disorders (e.g. Body dysmorphic disorder, hypochondriasis, trichotillomania, Tourette .s Syndrome, etc.), panic disorder, agoraphobia, and sexual abuse. Family members may be trained as therapeutic aides, and work closely with the treating therapist. When necessary and feasible, the therapist will make home visits in addition to office visits.
The intensive behavior therapy program is a service uniquely provided by this facility.
Cognitive therapy is based upon the theory that extreme emotional reactions are the result of faulty beliefs. The goal is to educate patients in the skills necessary to identify and change these mistaken beliefs and to replace them with logical ones. The result is a more balanced and moderate view of oneself, one .s life problems, and the world, leading to more positive emotional responses and more effective behaviors. Readings and .homework assignments . are employed in this re-education process. Problem-solving skills and assertiveness skills are also strengthened. In combination with behavior therapy, or alone, cognitive therapy can increase motivation for following treatment and improve family relations, self-image, self-control, and one .s ability to cope with adversity and life .s difficulties. It can be most effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, addictions and distressed relationships (e.g., marital, co-workers, parent/child).
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