Understanding OCD and Addiction Treatment
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood. It’s more than liking things neat or double-checking the stove. OCD involves intrusive, distressing thoughts (obsessions) paired with repetitive actions or mental rituals (compulsions) used to relieve anxiety. It can be exhausting, time-consuming, and deeply disruptive to daily life. That’s why combining OCD and addiction treatment are essential to a healthy life and a lasting recovery.
At Amity San Diego, we provide evidence-based, outpatient treatment for OCD, including support for individuals with co-occurring substance use or other mental health challenges. Our clinicians specialize in treating OCD with care that’s compassionate, structured, and grounded in what works — so you can regain a sense of peace and control.
OCD affects people in different ways, but often involves:
Obsessions – Unwanted, intrusive thoughts, fears, or images (e.g., fear of contamination, harming others, or religious guilt)
Compulsions – Repetitive behaviors or mental acts done to reduce anxiety (e.g., handwashing, checking, counting, seeking reassurance)
Distress or interference – Symptoms that disrupt school, work, relationships, or self-care
Attempts to hide or suppress symptoms – Feeling ashamed, exhausted, or isolated by the condition
It’s important to know: OCD is not a personality quirk. It’s a neurological disorder that can be treated effectively with the right tools and support.
OCD and Addiction: A Common Struggle
Many individuals with OCD also develop substance use disorders — often as a way to self-medicate overwhelming anxiety or intrusive thoughts. Unfortunately, substances may provide temporary relief while worsening the underlying condition and creating a harmful cycle.
At Amity San Diego, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment, offering integrated care for those facing both OCD and addiction. By addressing both conditions together, we help clients build sustainable recovery from the inside out.
Our Approach to OCD Treatment
OCD is highly treatable with the right strategies. At Amity, our team uses clinically proven methods to reduce obsessions, interrupt compulsions, and help individuals reclaim control over their thoughts and behaviors.
Treatment may include:
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) – The gold-standard therapy for OCD, helping individuals face fears and resist compulsive urges
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – To challenge distorted thinking patterns and develop healthier responses
Medication Management – When appropriate, SSRIs or other medications can reduce OCD severity
Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation – Tools to manage anxiety without rituals or avoidance
Group and Individual Therapy – Providing education, coping strategies, and peer support
Everything we do is trauma-informed and paced with your comfort in mind. You’re never forced to confront more than you’re ready for — but you’ll never be left alone in the process.
Outpatient Programs That Fit Your Life
Our treatment for OCD is offered through structured outpatient programs designed to meet you where you are:
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) – Full-day care with intensive therapy, support groups, and psychiatric care
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) – Part-time treatment that fits around work, school, or family commitments
Alumni and Aftercare Support – Continued connection, community, and relapse prevention after formal care
These flexible options allow clients to receive high-quality care while staying connected to their daily lives.
Who We Help
Amity San Diego provides OCD treatment for:
Adults experiencing moderate to severe OCD symptoms
Individuals with co-occurring addiction, anxiety, or depression
People who feel stuck in loops of fear, doubt, or compulsion
Clients seeking trauma-informed, nonjudgmental support for intrusive thoughts
Anyone ready to stop suffering in silence and start healing with professional guidance
Whether your OCD has been diagnosed or you’re just beginning to question your patterns, we’re here to help you make sense of it — and move forward.
You Deserve Relief — and a Life Beyond Rituals
Verify Your Insurance
We understand that navigating the financial aspects of treatment can be challenging. Amity San Diego is here to help. Our team works with many insurance providers to make treatment as accessible as possible. Click below to verify your insurance and learn more about your coverage options. Our admissions team will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
