A person in outpatient OCD treatment at Pillars Health Group's South Portland location.

Outpatient Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Treatment

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a complex and often overwhelming mental health condition that can significantly disrupt daily life. What may start as minor intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviors can grow into compulsive rituals and persistent anxiety that interfere with work, relationships, and overall well-being.

At Pillars Health Group, we offer compassionate, evidence-based outpatient programs specifically designed to support individuals living with OCD. Our comprehensive approach targets both the obsessive thoughts and the compulsive actions, helping clients break free from the cycle of OCD and reclaim a sense of control and peace.

Continue reading to explore our holistic treatment options, understand the signs and symptoms of OCD, and learn how to start your path to recovery at one of our mental health centers in Massachusetts or Maine.

Reaching out for help is never easy, but it’s one of the most important steps you can take for your well-being. By filling out this form, you’ll be connected with caring professionals who understand what you’re going through and are ready to guide you toward the support you need. You don’t have to face this alone. Start with us today.

How We Treat OCD

At Pillars Health Group, our treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is grounded in empathy, clinical expertise, and a personalized approach. We recognize that OCD presents uniquely in each individual—what helps one person may not be effective for another. That’s why our programs are carefully tailored to each client’s distinct symptoms, experiences, and recovery goals.

Our care begins with a thorough assessment that examines the individual’s obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, personal history, any co-occurring mental health conditions or substance use, and their specific objectives for healing.

From there, we provide a full continuum of care, including:

Half-Day and Full-Day Outpatient Treatment Programs

Our Full-Day and Half-Day Outpatient Treatment Programs are carefully crafted to support individuals at every stage of their journey toward managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). For those who benefit from a highly structured and immersive therapeutic setting, our Full-Day Outpatient Treatment Program offers comprehensive care five-to-six days per week.

For clients needing more flexibility, our Half-Day Outpatient Treatment Program provides expert clinical support three-to-five days per week. This option is ideal for individuals looking to balance OCD treatment with responsibilities such as work, school, or family life.

a happy young woman in therapy at Pillars Health Group
two women outdoors enjoying a sunny day together

If neither the Full-Day nor Half-Day model aligns with an individual’s lifestyle or treatment goals, we are dedicated to designing a fully personalized care plan that reflects their specific needs, preferences, and availability.

All of our OCD treatment programs include a robust mix of services such as evidence-based therapies, medication management, case coordination, and peer support.

Therapy and Counseling

Both individual therapy and group therapy are foundational elements of our treatment approach for OCD.

One-on-one therapy sessions provide a confidential and supportive space for clients to explore the roots of their obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. These sessions help identify personal triggers and develop healthier responses. Individual therapy is also essential for addressing any underlying trauma or co-occurring mental health conditions that may be contributing to OCD symptoms.

Our group therapy sessions foster a collaborative environment where individuals living with OCD can share their experiences, offer mutual support, and connect with others who truly understand their struggles. These sessions help reduce isolation and build a sense of community.

We utilize evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP) in both individual and group settings. These approaches help build emotional resilience and provide clients with practical tools to manage their symptoms and sustain long-term recovery.

Medication Management

For individuals living with more severe or persistent symptoms of OCD, medication can play a crucial role in the recovery process. At Pillars Health Group, we offer comprehensive medication management as part of our OCD treatment programs.

Our licensed nurse practitioners provide expert oversight and individualized support for all aspects of medication care. They work closely with each client to ensure that pharmacological treatment is safe, effective, and aligned with their unique needs and progress at every stage of the healing journey.

Case Management

At an OCD treatment center like Pillars Health Group, case managers play an essential role in supporting clients as they transition beyond structured care. They collaborate closely with each individual to create customized aftercare plans and connect them with key community resources. Case managers help coordinate continued therapy, peer-led support groups, mental wellness programs, and practical tools for managing obsessive-compulsive symptoms in daily life.

Our holistic approach to OCD treatment goes beyond symptom reduction. It emphasizes emotional, mental, and social well-being. We empower clients to develop lasting coping strategies, build healthy relationships, and cultivate a balanced, meaningful life rooted in long-term recovery and emotional resilience.

Aftercare and Alumni Programs

Our Aftercare and Alumni Programs act as a supportive and adaptable bridge between structured treatment and everyday life, thoughtfully designed for individuals managing OCD. These programs provide a stable, nurturing space where clients can continue refining their coping skills while gradually resuming responsibilities at work, school, or home.

Geared toward those transitioning into greater independence, our aftercare services offer ongoing connection, encouragement, and accountability. Even after formal treatment ends, clients remain valued members of our caring community. A community that’s dedicated to sustained emotional well-being and lifelong personal growth.

Signs and Symptoms of OCD

OCD often begins subtly with intrusive thoughts, excessive doubts, or the urge to repeat certain behaviors. While occasional intrusive thoughts are common, OCD becomes problematic when these obsessions and compulsions are chronic, distressing, and start to interfere with everyday life.

Recognizing the early signs and symptoms is critical to seeking timely treatment and preventing long-term emotional and functional disruption.

Common physical signs and symptoms of OCD include:

  • Muscle tension or repetitive physical actions causing discomfort
  • Rapid heartbeat or a sense of internal agitation
  • Shortness of breath or tightness in the chest
  • Fatigue or exhaustion from constant mental effort
  • Sleep disturbances due to racing thoughts or compulsive rituals
  • Gastrointestinal discomfort from stress and anxiety
  • Headaches or physical strain from repetitive behaviors

Common behavioral and psychological signs of OCD include:

  • Persistent, unwanted intrusive thoughts or images
  • Compulsive behaviors performed to reduce distress (e.g., hand washing, checking)
  • Avoidance of people, places, or activities that might trigger obsessions
  • Excessive need for symmetry, order, or exactness
  • Difficulty concentrating due to obsessive thoughts
  • Significant distress when routines are disrupted
  • Fear of losing control or causing harm, despite no intent
  • Mood swings or increased irritability when compulsions can’t be performed

As OCD progresses, it can deeply impact relationships, academic or professional responsibilities, and overall quality of life. If left untreated, OCD can also contribute to other mental health challenges, such as depression or substance use. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to reclaiming a sense of freedom and well-being.

Local OCD Treatment in MA/ME

If you’re a New England resident searching for “outpatient OCD treatment near me,” we’re here to support you. Pillars Health Group offers specialized outpatient care for OCD at our mental health centers across Massachusetts and Maine:

Whether you’re just beginning to seek support or are ready to start structured outpatient care, our compassionate team is here to guide you every step of the way. From developing a personalized OCD treatment plan to coordinating care with trusted psychiatric professionals, we are dedicated to helping you achieve lasting relief and emotional strength.

We also support clients in understanding and navigating their insurance benefits for OCD treatment. Receive a free, no-pressure insurance verification to explore your options clearly. We’ll take care of the hassle, so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

Connect with us today to speak with a care coordinator, learn more about our outpatient OCD programs, and take the first step toward freedom, focus, and fulfillment. Call (855) 828-0575 or fill out our contact form to get started.

What types of OCD do you treat?

We treat all primary forms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, including contamination-focused OCD, checking OCD, intrusive thought OCD, perfectionism-related OCD, and compulsive rituals of all types. We also support individuals whose OCD occurs alongside other mental health conditions or co-occurring substance-related challenges.

How does your outpatient obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment program work?

At Pillars, our outpatient OCD treatment program begins with a comprehensive assessment of your history, symptoms, and personal goals. From there, we work closely with you to create an individualized treatment plan that fits your current schedule and supports your daily life. Your plan may include individual therapy, group therapy, and evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), along with specialized OCD interventions when appropriate. We also provide ongoing case management and structured aftercare planning to promote long-term progress and stability.

Will I need medication as a part of OCD treatment?

For some individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder, medication can play an important role in reducing intrusive thoughts and easing compulsive behaviors. However, it isn’t necessary for everyone. Our licensed clinicians provide compassionate, personalized medication management for those who may benefit from it, ensuring that any medication plan is safe, effective, and aligned with your overall treatment goals.

What happens after my OCD treatment ends?

When you complete your treatment, we encourage you to join our Aftercare and Alumni Programs. These programs help you continue applying the strategies, coping skills, and exposure-based techniques you learned throughout treatment as you transition back into your daily routine. Both the Aftercare and Alumni Programs offer ongoing peer support, access to community resources, opportunities for continued therapy, and a collaborative environment that supports long-term progress and healing.

Is outpatient OCD treatment as effective as inpatient treatment?

Yes, outpatient treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder can be very effective, especially for individuals who do not require 24-hour supervision. Our outpatient model is designed to deliver evidence-based therapies in a flexible and personalized setting that supports your daily responsibilities and lifestyle. If at any point it’s determined that you may benefit from a more intensive level of care, we will work closely with you to adjust your treatment plan and ensure you receive the appropriate level of support.

How do I know if I’m ready to start treatment for my OCD?

If your obsessions or compulsions are persistent and begin interfering with work, relationships, school, or your daily routine, it may be a sign that you could benefit from professional OCD treatment. Other indicators include intrusive thoughts that feel difficult to control, repetitive behaviors or rituals you feel compelled to perform, significant anxiety if you try to resist these urges, or feeling overwhelmed even after trying self-help strategies on your own. If any of these experiences sound familiar, reaching out for support can make a meaningful difference. You’re welcome to contact us anytime for a free insurance verification check so we can help you access the OCD treatment you need as soon as your schedule allows.

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