Physician-Led OCD Treatment in Columbia, MD
Some thoughts won't let go. If you find yourself caught in cycles of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that feel impossible to control, you're not without options. Dr. McWilliams offers direct, physician-led evaluation and treatment of adults living with OCD and related conditions in Maryland, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
What is OCD?
OCD is one of the most misunderstood and underdiagnosed conditions in psychiatry — and one of the most undertreated, despite having well-established, effective treatments.
OCD involves two core features: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant distress. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to neutralize that distress — temporarily. The relief is short-lived, and the cycle begins again.
It presents differently in every patient. Some people experience contamination fears and washing rituals. Others have intrusive thoughts of harm, a need for symmetry and order, or purely mental compulsions that are invisible to everyone around them. Many high-functioning adults manage OCD quietly for years, often not recognizing what they’re experiencing as a treatable medical condition.
OCD is a neurobiological condition involving the same neural circuitry involved in habit formation and threat detection. With the right evaluation and treatment, most people experience meaningful, lasting improvement.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Characterized by recurrent, unwanted intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals performed to reduce distress. Symptoms cause significant impairment and are time-consuming, often taking more than an hour per day.
Related OCD-Spectrum Disorders
Conditions like trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), excoriation (skin-picking disorder), and hoarding disorder share overlapping neurobiological features with OCD and respond to similar treatment approaches.
OCD with Depression or Anxiety
OCD rarely occurs in isolation. It commonly co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. An integrated evaluation is essential to avoid treating only part of the picture.
Treatment-Resistant OCD
When standard medication trials have not produced adequate relief, there are still evidence-based strategies to explore — including augmentation approaches and coordination with specialized ERP therapists.
A Precise Approach to OCD Treatment
Evidence-based treatment, tailored to your specific neurobiology and life circumstances
Comprehensive 60-Minute Evaluations
Every new patient receives a thorough psychiatric evaluation Dr. McWilliams explores your history, prior treatments, family history, and life context before arriving at any diagnostic conclusions.
Direct Access to Your Doctor
You work with Dr. McWilliams directly — every appointment, every message. No rotating staff, no hand-offs to a provider. The same physician who evaluates you manages your care throughout.
Strategic Medication Management
When medication is appropriate, Dr. McWilliams takes a conservative, research-backed approach — using the lowest effective dose with the fewest side effects.
Integrated Therapy + Medicine
Beyond medications, the gold-standard treatment for OCD combines medication with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy — a specialized protocol requiring dedicated therapist training. Dr. McWilliams manages medication and coordinates closely with vetted ERP specialists to ensure care is integrated, not fragmented.
Telepsychiatry - Maryland, Virginia & Wisconsin
Receive the same high-quality psychiatric care from the comfort of your home. Secure, HIPAA-compliant video appointments available throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Wisconsin. In-person appointments available in Columbia, Maryland.
Efficient, Respect-Driven Care
Dr. McWilliams understands that high-functioning adults often need psychiatric care that works around demanding schedules — not one that creates additional disruption. Appointments are on time, communication is clear, and he takes time to coordinate everything with your other doctors.
Why Work with Dr. McWilliams?
01
Board-Certified Psychiatrist & Physician
As a fully licensed physician, Dr. McWilliams evaluates OCD the way a doctor should — ruling out medical contributors like thyroid dysfunction, vitamin deficiencies, and sleep disorders that are frequently overlooked in standard psychiatric care.
02
Expertise in Treatment-Resistant OCD
Patients who have tried multiple medications or therapy approaches without adequate results are a specific focus. Dr. McWilliams has the training and clinical experience to pursue advanced strategies — including augmentation, off-label approaches, and working with specialists who offer Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy.
03
Academic Background & Ongoing Learning
As an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of Wisconsin, Dr. McWilliams stays current with emerging research and brings an academic rigor to everyday clinical practice.
04
A Discreet, Private Practice
For professionals who value privacy, Dr. McWilliams offers a solo practice environment — no large clinic databases, no revolving staff, no compromises on confidentiality or the quality of your relationship with your doctor.
Direct, physician-led care focused on treating the underlying cause. Every patient is evaluated and treated personally, with an emphasis on precision, clarity, and measurable improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see Dr. McWilliams?
No referral is required. You can request an appointment directly through the online scheduling portal. Dr. McWilliams will conduct a thorough initial evaluation before recommending any treatment approach.
What if I've already tried OCD medications and they haven't worked?
Treatment-resistant OCD is a specific area of focus for Dr. McWilliams. If previous medications have not been effective, there are still many evidence-based strategies to explore — including higher dose optimization, augmentation agents, and different medication classes. Coordination with a specialist ERP therapist is often the missing piece for patients who have tried medication alone. A failed medication trial does not mean OCD is untreatable.
Does Dr. McWilliams provide therapy as well as medication management?
Dr. McWilliams offers medication management and coordinates care with a vetted network of therapists who specialize in ERP — the gold-standard behavioral treatment for OCD. Rather than attempting to deliver ERP outside of dedicated specialist training, he ensures his patients are connected with the most qualified therapists available, while managing the medication side of treatment himself.
How long does it take for OCD treatment to work?
OCD medications can take 8-12 weeks to achieve their full effect. Some adjustments may be needed to find the right medication and dose. Psychotherapy often produces long-term meaningful changes within 8–16 sessions. Dr. McWilliams will set clear expectations at your first appointment and monitor progress systematically throughout your care.
Can I be seen via telehealth?
Yes. Dr. McWilliams offers secure, HIPAA-compliant telepsychiatry appointments for residents of Maryland, Virginia, and Wisconsin. In-person visits are available in Columbia, MD. Both options provide the same level of personalized, physician-led care.
Does Dr. McWilliams accept insurance?
Dr. McWilliams is an out-of-network provider. Many patients are able to receive partial reimbursement through their insurance’s out-of-network benefits. Full rate and billing information is available on the Rates & FAQs page.
Ready to Take the First Step?
A thorough evaluation is the foundation of effective OCD treatment. Schedule your consultation today.