An integrative approach to the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder

We reviewed the research literature concerning the etiology and treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Cognitive behavioral and neurobiological treatments were the two most frequently used treatment approaches. The majority of research on the treatment of OCD has focused on implementing these treatment approaches in isolation, rather than in combination, which has often resulted in a high symptom relapse rate. We focused on integrating the most effective elements of each treatment approach into a new treatment regimen. More specifically, the longlasting benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy and the rapid symptom relief of neurobiological treatments are integrated in such a manner as to take full advantage of each, while at the same time controlling for the shortcomings of each treatment approach. It is proposed that this newly integrated treatment approach represents a superior treatment regimen, as compared with the combined treatment approaches currently used.