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Lynx Therapeutics Pediatric Therapy provides occupational therapy, physical therapy, and tutoring services throughout the north shore and Chicago area.
What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a neurobiological disorder characterized by obsessions and compulsions. About 2-4 % of adults, and 1-2% of children have OCD.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is believed to be caused by miscommunication of certain brain pathways. These pathways involve the caudate nucleus, orbitofrontal cortex, and thalamus. PANDAS is an abbreviation for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcus. When a child has strep throat, antibodies are created to fight the streptococcal bacteria. In PANDAS, the antibodies attack specific areas of the brain, and OCD suddenly results.
Obsessions are interfering thoughts. Compulsions are behaviors that reduce anxiety. Although compulsions provide short-term relief, obsessions return. People with OCD know their thoughts and behaviors are irrational. They often try and can be very successful at hiding their behaviors. Unfortunately, children and adolescents are often misdiagnosed. Parents should look for common OCD symptoms in children. Some adolescents and adults wait a very long time before they seek professional help which is unfortunate because OCD can interfere with fully participating and enjoying meaningful activities. Lynx is one of the few places that understands the complexities of obsessive compulsive disorder and addresses the issue first hand.
Lynx focus is on improving function for children and teenagers with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. We do not prescribe medications although it may be appropriate for some people with OCD. We use evidence based therapy approaches and respect each individual’s privacy. Lynx emphasizes helping children and teenagers retrain their brain pathways by providing strategies to reduce their symptoms and improve quality of life.
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