Treatment For OCD Disorder in Washington
Compassionate, Evidence-Based Care for Your Mental Health
How OCD is Treated at Constellations Mental Health Services
Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation
Your treatment begins with a one-on-one consultation with Alexandra Pales, ARNP, PMHNP-BC. This includes:
- A clinical interview to understand your history and symptoms
- Screening tools to assess the severity of depression
- A discussion of treatment goals and preferences
Step 2: Personalized Treatment Plan
We blend evidence-based approaches with supportive lifestyle guidance to help reduce the severity and frequency of OCD symptoms.
Natural & Behavioral Support Options
Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) exercises to reduce compulsions by safely facing feared situations
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focused on retraining thought patterns and behaviors
Mindfulness and meditation to build distress tolerance and emotional regulation
Regular exercise to lower anxiety and boost mood
Omega-3 fatty acids for brain health and anxiety relief
NAC (N-Acetylcysteine) supplementation – shown in some studies to reduce compulsive behaviors
Acupuncture and herbal support to relieve stress and calm the nervous system
Medical Treatment Options
SSRIs (first-line treatment) such as Fluoxetine, Fluvoxamine, or Sertraline
Clomipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant known to be effective for OCD
Antipsychotic medications (like Aripiprazole or Risperidone) used as adjunctive therapy when SSRIs are not sufficient
All medication decisions are made collaboratively based on your goals and tolerance for side effects.
Step 3: Ongoing Support & Adjustments
- Follow-ups are scheduled every 2-4 weeks to monitor progress.
- Once stability is achieved, appointments are spaced every 8-12 weeks for continued support.
- Medication adjustments or therapy recommendations can be made as needed.
Working With Us
- Personalized & Patient-Centered Care – Your treatment is designed with you, for you—we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches.
- Convenient & Private Telehealth Appointments – Receive care from the comfort of your home using a secure online platform. Accessible via computer, tablet, or phone.
- Expert-Led Care by Alexandra Pales, ARNP, PMHNP-BC – Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in emergency medicine, ICU, and psychiatric care.
- Medication & Holistic Options Available – We provide both medication-based and holistic treatment strategies, tailoring care to your unique needs.
Insurance & Pricing
We accept Premera, Regence, Aetna, HMA, Asuris, and Tricare.
- Initial consultation (60 min): $300
- Follow-up visits (30 min): $200
Insurance may cover medications. We can assist in navigating this process.
Request a Consultation
We will get back to you within 24 business hours
Understanding OCD
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition involving unwanted, persistent thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) performed to relieve anxiety. These cycles can be exhausting and interfere with everyday life, relationships, and peace of mind.
OCD often begins in late teens or early adulthood, though it can appear in childhood. With the right care, individuals with OCD can learn to manage symptoms and reduce the impact of obsessions and compulsions.
Signs and Symptoms of OCD
Obsessions
Fear of germs, illness, or contamination
Intrusive thoughts about causing harm to oneself or others
Need for symmetry, precision, or things to feel “just right”
Taboo thoughts involving themes of death, sex, or violence
Compulsions
Excessive cleaning or handwashing
Repeated checking of locks, stoves, or lights
Counting, repeating words, or arranging items in a specific order
Mental rituals, such as repeating certain thoughts to “cancel out” or “neutralize” distressing ones
These cycles can create intense anxiety and consume hours of a person’s day. If these patterns feel familiar, we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer ERP therapy?
We don’t offer ERP therapy, but we may refer you to outside ERP therapists if needed.
What if my thoughts are really disturbing or upsetting?
OCD often involves taboo or distressing thoughts. These are more common than most people realize. You will never be judged, and our approach is designed to help you process these thoughts without shame.
Do I have to take medication?
No. Many patients benefit from non-medication options like ERP, NAC, and lifestyle changes. If medications are considered, we’ll discuss them thoroughly before you decide.
What if I’m already on medication?
We can help adjust your current medication if needed, or recommend alternatives based on your goals and symptoms.
Where do appointments take place?
All sessions are held via secure telehealth, accessible from your phone, tablet, or computer. Just find a quiet, private space with video and audio.
