Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
What this specialty means
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) specialty care focuses on supporting people who experience intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) and feel driven to perform repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) to reduce distress or prevent something bad. It is more than liking things neat; it can involve checking, cleaning, ordering, seeking certainty, or silent review. Compassionate support may include psychotherapy to address patterns and emotions, coaching to build skills and accountability in daily life, and medical care that can evaluate symptoms and, when appropriate, discuss medication options as part of a broader plan.
Why people seek support
People may seek help when obsessions and rituals consume time, disrupt work or school, strain relationships, or make everyday choices feel risky. Examples include fear of contamination, doubts about safety, distressing taboo thoughts, moral or religious scrupulosity, or a need for things to feel “just right.” Some want clarity about what OCD is, how it differs from worry, and how loved ones can respond. Others look for structured practice facing feared situations, support reducing reassurance-seeking, or guidance after life changes—such as parenting, illness, loss, or stress—intensify symptoms.
Typical goals
Collaborative goals may include understanding the OCD cycle, mapping triggers, obsessions, and rituals, and building a shared plan to respond differently. People might work toward tolerating uncertainty and uncomfortable feelings, reducing time spent in rituals, and gradually approaching avoided activities. Additional aims can include strengthening values-based choices, improving communication with family to reduce unhelpful accommodations, increasing self-compassion, and planning for setbacks and maintenance. Depending on needs, a professional may also coordinate with medical care and clarify when skills-focused coaching or psychotherapy would best support progress.
Trifecta Health educational information. For educational purposes only—not a diagnosis or a substitute for professional medical advice.
Find a specialty provider
Lisa Caiafa
APRN, FNP-C
Lisa Caiafa, MSN, RN, APRN, FNP-C, is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered care. With over 14 years of clinical experience in emergency department, urgent care and primary care settings, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her daily practice...
Dr. Tiffany Rogers
Ph.D., LAPC
Every person who comes to therapy brings their own story, shaped by unique experiences, strengths, and resilience. While many clients reach out during some of their most difficult moments, I’ve seen firsthand how pain, when met with compassion and curiosity, can become a powerful catalyst for growth and healing...
Stephanie Sheets
LPC
Hello! Thank you for considering me for your therapy needs...
Dusty Shandy
LPC
I am a licensed professional counselor in Georgia with 10+ years of experience working with a variety of clients. I have additional experience in school-based/family counseling, case management for foster children, parental education, resource allocation for vocational rehabilitation, and education and career counseling...
Hannah Heilman
PMHNP
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am humbled by the privilege of being part of the multidisciplinary team at Trifecta Health. I am a native Georgian and live in Duluth with my husband, four children, and two cats and dogs who enjoy gardening, painting, and family adventures in my free time. I am a family-focused provider who meets personal goals of wholeness and wellness through a collaborative treatment approach...
Michelle Gillespie
LPC
Thank you for considering me as part of your counseling journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia...
Jon Hester
LCSW, CCTP-II and Certified Maxwell Leadership Coach
Jon Hester, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker serving adults in Georgia and Florida. With more than 25 years of clinical and executive leadership experience, Jon helps clients navigate anxiety, OCD, trauma, PTSD, stress, major life transitions, and the unique pressures that can come with work, relationships, and leadership responsibilities...