OCD and Substance Abuse Treatment in California
Integrated treatment for co-occurring obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance use disorder at Keystone Health Group.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and substance use disorder co-occur at higher rates than in the general population. People with OCD may use substances to temporarily reduce the anxiety and distress caused by obsessions, or to make compulsions feel less urgent. Substance use, in turn, worsens OCD symptoms and can trigger new obsessions. At Keystone Health Group, our dual-diagnosis team provides integrated treatment for co-occurring OCD and addiction.
OCD and Self-Medication
OCD is characterized by intrusive, unwanted obsessions (thoughts, images, or urges) and compulsive behaviors performed to reduce the anxiety caused by obsessions. Substances — particularly alcohol, cannabis, and benzodiazepines — can temporarily reduce the anxiety and urgency of OCD symptoms. This temporary relief reinforces substance use, creating a cycle of self-medication.
Evidence-Based OCD Treatment
The gold standard for OCD treatment is exposure and response prevention (ERP) — a form of CBT in which clients are gradually exposed to feared situations while resisting compulsive behaviors. ERP is highly effective for OCD and is integrated into our dual-diagnosis treatment approach.
Medication Management
SSRIs at higher doses than used for depression are the first-line medication treatment for OCD. Our psychiatrists manage OCD medications as part of the integrated dual-diagnosis treatment plan.
Signs & Symptoms of Addiction
Our Treatment Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
Can OCD be treated during addiction treatment?
Yes. Our dual-diagnosis team treats OCD and addiction simultaneously using integrated treatment planning.
Is ERP effective for OCD?
Yes. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is the most evidence-based treatment for OCD, with response rates of 60–80% in research studies.
Start Treatment Today
Same-day admissions available. Our team is here 24/7.
Call 855-83-RENEW Verify InsuranceAll Drug Treatment Programs
← Back to Drug Treatment Overview
- ADHD and Substance Abuse
- Anxiety Disorders and Addiction
- Bipolar Disorder and Addiction
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Depression and Addiction
- DSM-5 & Substance Abuse
- Eating Disorders and Addiction
- Grief, Loss & Substance Abuse
- Personality Disorders and Addiction
- PTSD and Substance Abuse
- Schizophrenia and Substance Abuse
- TBI and Substance Abuse
- Trauma and Addiction
Recovery is possible. We're here to help.
Same-day admissions available. Most insurance accepted.