What's Happening

New Anxiety Disorder Treatment; Parkinson’s disease treatment now used for treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD ).

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) involves placing electrodes in specific areas of the brain as a way to alter the functioning of that area. By altering functioning in specific brain areas, the symptoms associated with that brain region can also be altered. For many years, DBS has been used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. However, researchers recently applied the technique among clients who have severe Obsessive Compulsive Disorder that has not responded to usual treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and medication (which are usually sufficient for most OCD patients).  The researchers reported that DBS treatment  resulted in significant improvement, generally reducing OCD symptoms by 50% or more. To view a related article, click here. The study is published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

If you are experiencing anxiety symptoms or believe you may have an anxiety disorder, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be helpful. At CPA, we have many psychologists in Boston & Newton who are trained in CBT and who provide therapy for anxiety problems. To learn more, please visit our Anxiety & Panic Disorder Treatment page.