Obsessive Compulsive Anonymous

The Obsessive Compulsive Anonymous (OCA) is a national, non-profit, self-help organization consisting of a fellowship of individuals dedicated to sharing their experience, strength, and hope with one another to enable them to solve their common problems and help others recover from obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is characterized by recurrent, unwanted, and unpleasant thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive, ritualistic behaviors that the affected individual feels driven to perform (compulsions). Established in 1988, OCA is a fellowship of people who use the Twelve Steps, as originated by Alcoholics Anonymous and adapted for OCA, to help obtain relief from obsessions and compulsions. Although OCA does not endorse any specific treatments for OCD, the organization does recommend that its members see physicians skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of OCD. Consisting of approximately 1,000 members and 50 chapters, OCA is not allied with any sect, denomination, organization, or institution. The organization provides informational pamphlets and meeting contact lists with contacts throughout the United States and Canada.