Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

The purpose of this course is to provide healthcare professionals with a basic understanding of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), its clinical manifestations, and basic treatment approaches in order to facilitate optimum patient care and outcomes. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Review the epidemiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

2. Outline the diagnostic criteria and pathophysiology of OCD and possible barriers to diagnosis.

3. Describe the differential diagnosis and common comorbidities associated with OCD.

4. Discuss the use of pharmacotherapy in the management of OCD, including selection of treatment, duration, and how to address partial response or non-response.

5. Describe the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy in OCD treatment, with a focus on exposure and response prevention.

6. Identify appropriate interventions for treatment refractory OCD and experimental therapies.


This 4-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.