Understanding OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a well-recognized mental health condition, yet it is often misunderstood and casually misused in everyday language. In reality, OCD is a serious and often distressing condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding what OCD really is and how it can be treated helps reduce stigma and opens the door to effective support. Seeking the support of a psychological or mental health therapist is a gateway to self compassion and understanding. 

In clinical terms, OCD is defined by two main features: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that result in feelings of anxiety. Compulsions are the repetitive behaviors or mental rituals a person feels driven to do in order to relieve that anxiety or prevent something bad from happening. 

OCD can feel like being caught in a cycle that is difficult to break. A thought or fear shows up, it feels overwhelming, and the person feels forced to perform a behavior to quiet it down, only for the cycle to repeat. This leads to relentless thoughts and rituals that interfere with daily life. Therapy can help you become more aware of the cycle and learn strategies to break these habits ultimately reducing the anxious distress associated with obsessions.


Common Themes in OCD

OCD doesn’t look the same for everyone, but certain themes appear more commonly:


1. Contamination fears
Someone might worry about germs, illness, or chemicals. This can lead to frequent handwashing, cleaning, or avoiding public spaces altogether.


2. Doubt and checking
A person may fear they left the stove on, forgot to lock the door, or could cause harm by being careless. They might check appliances, locks, or even replay memories in their mind over and over.

3. Intrusive thoughts about harm or morality
Unwanted images of hurting someone, blasphemous thoughts, or fears of being a “bad” person can appear. These thoughts don’t reflect the individual’s true values, but they create intense guilt and distress.

4. Symmetry and “just right” feelings
A person may feel an overwhelming need for objects to be arranged in a certain way or for actions to be repeated until they feel “complete". This is not simply a preference for neatness, but a response to the intense discomfort or anxiety that arises when things don’t feel balanced.

5. Health and body-related obsessions
Some individuals become preoccupied with fears about having a serious illness, noticing every small sensation in their body and interpreting it as a sign of disease. This can lead to constant reassurance-seeking, repeated doctor visits, or excessive online research.


Treatment Options

The good news is that OCD is treatable. One of the most effective approaches is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a type of cognitive behavioral therapy. ERP involves gradually facing feared situations or thoughts without engaging in compulsions or other self-soothing behaviors. Over time, the brain learns that the anxiety doesn’t last forever and that rituals aren’t needed for safety. Our therapists tailor treatment to your specific needs and can include family members in your treatment if desired to reinforce opportunities for change. Family therapy is a common supplement to individual therapy for people treating OCD, and a necessary component in treating children OCD. 

In some cases, medication such as SSRIs can also help reduce symptoms, especially when combined with therapy. Support from family, friends, and mental health professionals can make a major difference as well. We refer to a network of trusted professionals including psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and community mental health centers and collaborate as partners in your mental health.

OCD is not about being extra clean or meticulous. It’s about living with a condition that can feel overwhelming without the right tools. With proper treatment, most people are able to manage their symptoms and build meaningful, fulfilling lives. Our clinicians use evidence based strategies to help you generate lasting change and improved wellbeing. 


Contact Us
At the Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness, our therapists are committed to providing compassionate, in-person or virtual care tailored to your emotional and mental health needs. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or simply seeking a safe space to grow, our experienced therapists in Plantation, Florida are here to support you every step of the way.


Call Us: (954) 577-0095
Visit Us: 820 Peters Road, Suite E-100, Plantation, FL 33324, Located in the heart of Broward county one block west of University Drive.

View Us: www.plantationpsychologists.com
Email: Help@plantationpsychologists.com

Take the first step toward healing today. We nourish and you flourish.



Family therapist in Broward County

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By Keitha Glace • May 28, 2025
Compassionate family therapy in Broward County with Plantation family therapists. We also offer psychological testing to support emotional and behavioral wellness.

Growing Together: Parent Skills Group – Support for Every Stage of Parenting

By Lisa Saponaro • February 4, 2025
Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging roles a person can take on. As a parent, you will navigate your child’s emotional, social, and cognitive development, which can be both fulfilling and overwhelming. This journey can be even more complex when co-parenting, managing ADHD-related behaviors, or seeking additional support through counseling and therapy. That’s where our Parenting Skills Group comes in. Our virtual group sessions provide parents with the essential tools and skills to raise well-adjusted children. Each week, we focus on practical strategies that promote positive behaviors, emotional regulation, and effective communication—all while fostering family growth. Whether you're dealing with tantrums, school challenges, or co-parenting struggles, we’re here to help. This group will explore essential parenting techniques, including: How to communicate more effectively with your child Strategies for managing challenging behaviors, including those related to ADHD Approaches to encourage emotional and social development Navigating co-parenting dynamics in a supportive and constructive way By the end of the 12 sessions, you’ll have the tools needed to create a nurturing environment that strengthens your family’s connection and supports your child’s growth. One of the greatest benefits of joining our group is connecting with other parents facing similar challenges. Parenting—especially when dealing with ADHD, co-parenting struggles, or behavioral concerns—can sometimes feel isolating. Our group provides a supportive space to share experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. Building these connections fosters a sense of community, reducing stress and promoting shared growth. Accessible Support in Broward County Sessions are held virtually, making it easy for parents across Broward County to participate from the comfort of their own home. Parenting can be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join our Growing Together: Parent Skills Group to gain the confidence, support, and knowledge you need to thrive in your parenting journey. To register or for more information, contact us at (954) 577-0095 . Let’s work together to make a lasting, positive impact on your child’s well-being and your family’s future. Lisa Saponaro, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness We Nourish ~ You Flourish www.Plantationpsychologists.com 954-577-0095

Understanding the Food-Mood Connection

By Lisa Saponaro • November 18, 2023
Understanding the Food-Mood Connection: The food we consume can directly influence our mood, emotions, and overall mental well-being. Nutritional deficiencies and imbalances can affect brain chemistry, impacting our energy levels, cognition, and emotional stability. Conversely, consuming a well-balanced diet with essential nutrients can promote optimal brain function, stabilize mood, and improve overall mental health. The Importance of Nutrition for Mental Health: Research increasingly demonstrates that nutrition plays a significant role in mental health. Essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc, support the production of neurotransmitters and regulate brain function. A deficiency in these nutrients has been linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. At Plantation Psychologists, we emphasize the incorporation of nutrient-rich foods to support mental well-being. Gut Health and Mood: The gut-brain connection is a fascinating area of study, revealing the intricate relationship between our digestive system and our mental health. The gut microbiome, the community of bacteria residing in our intestines, influences brain function, mood regulation, and the production of neurotransmitters. Nurturing a healthy gut through a balanced diet, rich in fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics, can positively impact our mental and emotional well-being. Promoting Wellness through Nutritional Guidance: At Plantation Psychologists, we recognize the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, including nutrition. Lisa Saponaro, Ph.D., and our team of dedicated professionals provide nutritional guidance tailored to each individual's unique needs. Through evidence-based practices, we help clients make informed choices that support optimal mental health, enhance mood stability, and foster overall wellness. Nutrition for Life-Long Well-Being: Integrating nutrition as a fundamental part of your lifestyle promotes long-term well-being. It is important to develop sustainable eating habits that support mental health and overall vitality. Our team at Plantation Psychologists offers personalized strategies and tools to help individuals create a balanced and nourishing diet that suits their preferences, dietary needs, and goals. Conclusion: The relationship between food and mood is an important aspect of mental and emotional well-being. At Plantation Psychologists, Lisa Saponaro, Ph.D., and our team are committed to guiding individuals in South Florida, including Davie, Plantation, Sunrise, Weston, and beyond, on their journey to optimal mental health and wellness. By understanding the profound impact of nutrition on mood and emphasizing the connection between gut health and mental well-being, we empower individuals to make informed choices that support their overall vitality and nourish both their bodies and minds. To learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation, please visit our website or contact us today.