At Shanti TMS, we understand how deeply obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can disrupt a person’s daily life. For many, OCD isn’t just a set of quirky habits or preferences; it’s a chronic condition marked by distressing, intrusive thoughts and an overwhelming need to perform rituals or compulsions in response. Left untreated, OCD can make even the simplest daily routines feel like insurmountable obstacles. That’s why our locally owned, physician-led clinic in Portland is proud to offer cutting-edge TMS for OCD, a non-invasive, FDA-approved therapy that offers new hope for individuals who haven’t responded to traditional treatments. If you’re seeking compassionate, evidence-based OCD treatment in Portland, Shanti TMS is here to help you reclaim your peace of mind.
Knowing More About Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a chronic mental health condition marked by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions). These thoughts aren’t just uncomfortable; they’re often deeply distressing. OCD can interfere with relationships, work, and overall quality of life. Most people with OCD know their thoughts are irrational, but they struggle to stop them. This leads to ongoing cycles of anxiety and ritualistic behavior.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), about 1.2% of U.S. adults experience OCD each year, with women affected more than men. Over a lifetime, approximately 2.3% of adults will develop the condition. Among those diagnosed, about half experience serious impairment, further highlighting the urgency for effective interventions. At Shanti TMS, we recognize the real and often hidden toll that OCD takes, and we are committed to delivering personalized care that addresses the root of the condition, not just its symptoms.
What Causes OCD?
There’s no single cause of OCD, but research points to a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition, meaning the disorder can run in families. Brain imaging studies also suggest that individuals with OCD have abnormalities in certain brain circuits, particularly those related to decision-making, impulse control, and emotion regulation. These insights have informed new and innovative treatment options like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which directly targets the areas of the brain thought to be involved in OCD.
In many cases, OCD symptoms begin in adolescence or early adulthood, although they can appear at any age. Stressful life events, trauma, or major transitions can trigger or worsen symptoms. Importantly, OCD often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, which can complicate both diagnosis and treatment. In our OCD treatment in Portland, we take a comprehensive approach that looks beyond the surface symptoms to understand the full picture of what you or your loved one is experiencing.
What Does OCD Look Like?
Pop culture often portrays OCD as a fixation on cleanliness or order, but the reality goes much deeper. Obsessions can take many different forms. These often center around fears, values, or moral concerns that are deeply personal to the individual. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), these intrusive thoughts can range from scrupulosity to fears about causing harm, sexual orientation, gender identity, and even disturbing themes. These are not desires or intentions, but unwanted, intrusive thoughts that trigger intense anxiety.
These obsessions may seem alarming, but individuals with OCD are not dangerous and rarely act on these thoughts. Their distress often stems from values they deeply care about, making symptoms feel overwhelming. Many also experience fears around contamination, relationships, or rituals like checking and counting. Because OCD varies so widely, personalized approaches like TMS for OCD offer more effective relief than one-size-fits-all treatments.
How Is OCD Diagnosed?
Diagnosing OCD involves more than recognizing common behaviors. Mental health professionals use structured interviews and validated assessment tools to determine whether someone meets the clinical criteria for OCD treatment in Portland. These include the presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both, lasting more than an hour each day and significantly interfering with daily functioning.
At Shanti TMS, our clinical team brings both expertise and compassion to the diagnostic process. We listen closely to understand your experience so we can recommend the most effective and appropriate treatment plan. Our commitment to thorough assessment allows us to personalize care for each individual, ensuring you feel heard, respected, and supported from the very first visit.
How We Treat OCD with TMS Therapy
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that targets brain regions linked to OCD. At our OCD treatment center in Portland, we offer this drug-free alternative for those who haven’t found relief with medication or talk therapy.
Because OCD can impact individuals differently depending on their age, Shanti TMS offers specialized treatment options for both adults and adolescents. Each program addresses the individual’s unique clinical, emotional, and developmental needs with personalized, thoughtful care.
During TMS treatment, a device delivers focused magnetic stimulation to the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain involved in decision-making, emotional regulation, and intrusive thought processing. This stimulation helps reset disrupted neural activity, reducing the frequency and intensity of obsessions and compulsions over time. Most patients come in for daily sessions over the course of several weeks, receiving treatment in our calm, welcoming clinic, with no sedation or recovery time needed.
Getting Started with OCD Treatment in Portland at Shanti TMS
Taking the first step toward treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when you’ve been living with the daily challenges of OCD. At Shanti TMS, we’re here to make that process as smooth, supportive, and informative as possible. Here’s what you can expect when starting your treatment at our clinic:
- Schedule your consultation: Reach out to our friendly care team to set up an initial consultation. You can call us directly or fill out the contact form on our website. We’ll work with your schedule to find a time that’s convenient for you.
- Meet our team: During your consultation, you’ll meet with one of our experienced physicians to discuss your symptoms, history, and treatment goals. We’ll walk you through how TMS works, answer your questions, and help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.
- Receive a personalized treatment plan: If TMS is right for you, we’ll create a personalized plan, explain the sessions, and guide you through what to expect and how we’ll track progress.
- Begin your TMS sessions: Treatment sessions typically take place daily and last about 20 minutes. Most patients return to their normal activities immediately after.
- Ongoing support throughout your journey: Our care doesn’t stop at the clinic door. We’re here to support you through every step of your recovery. We will adjust your plan if needed, monitor results, and make sure you feel confident and cared for.