Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Catherine Coogan, PhD, Psychologist
Catherine Coogan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Therapy is an opportunity to better understand who you are and gain skills to address challenges. I most often work with people who are experiencing mood or anxiety concerns, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Therapy is an opportunity to better understand who you are and gain skills to address challenges. I most often work with people who are experiencing mood or anxiety concerns, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms, life transitions, and relationship issues.
(202) 519-0106 View (202) 519-0106
Photo of Mind Body Health, Psychologist
Mind Body Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
At Mind Body Health, we have psychologists who specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, insomnia, weight management and depression. We also have dietitians who work with you to help you achieve optimal health. We have a strong understanding of how your physical health and diet affect your mental health and vice versa. We use approaches based in research and tailor our interventions to each individual.
At Mind Body Health, we have psychologists who specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, insomnia, weight management and depression. We also have dietitians who work with you to help you achieve optimal health. We have a strong understanding of how your physical health and diet affect your mental health and vice versa. We use approaches based in research and tailor our interventions to each individual.
(571) 297-1870 View (571) 297-1870
Photo of David Sternberg - DC Talk Therapy, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DC Talk Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Anxiety and OCD are two of our specialty areas, and we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and ERP to treat them, respectively.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, stress or depression? If so, you've come to to the right place. Our 11 Washington, DC therapists specialize in working with young adults (20s and 30s). We offer in-person sessions as well as online therapy for individual counseling and group therapy. Since we opened our doors in 2012, DC Talk Therapy has helped nearly 2,000 clients make positive and sustained changes in their lives. The period between college and middle age can often feel chaotic and scary, filled with major life decisions and significant changes. Let one of our experienced and compassionate therapists help you navigate it all.
Anxiety and OCD are two of our specialty areas, and we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and ERP to treat them, respectively.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, stress or depression? If so, you've come to to the right place. Our 11 Washington, DC therapists specialize in working with young adults (20s and 30s). We offer in-person sessions as well as online therapy for individual counseling and group therapy. Since we opened our doors in 2012, DC Talk Therapy has helped nearly 2,000 clients make positive and sustained changes in their lives. The period between college and middle age can often feel chaotic and scary, filled with major life decisions and significant changes. Let one of our experienced and compassionate therapists help you navigate it all.
(202) 335-1958 View (202) 335-1958
Photo of Tishanna Hollins, PhD, Psychologist
Tishanna Hollins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
Dr. Hollins specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, OCD, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD/trauma, racial/ethnic/cultural-related concerns, and depression. Dr. Hollins combines evidence based treatments with a sense of compassion, collaboration, and a nonjudgemental approach.
Dr. Hollins specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, OCD, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD/trauma, racial/ethnic/cultural-related concerns, and depression. Dr. Hollins combines evidence based treatments with a sense of compassion, collaboration, and a nonjudgemental approach.
(571) 568-7141 View (571) 568-7141
Photo of Carey Schwartz, PsyD, Psychologist
Carey Schwartz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Schwartz is a psychologist with many specialties including anxiety (OCD, GAD, Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety), depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, and substance use disorders. He typically works with late adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds. Dr. Schwartz primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) though he frequently incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training and acceptance-based approaches into his treatment.
Dr. Schwartz is a psychologist with many specialties including anxiety (OCD, GAD, Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety), depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, and substance use disorders. He typically works with late adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds. Dr. Schwartz primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) though he frequently incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training and acceptance-based approaches into his treatment.
(202) 335-7301 View (202) 335-7301
Photo of Natalie Chaykin Pierce, PsyD, Psychologist
Natalie Chaykin Pierce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
(703) 952-5233 View (703) 952-5233
Photo of Stephen Holland, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephen Holland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
(202) 759-2884 View (202) 759-2884
Photo of Maryam Khatami, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryam Khatami
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My areas of expertise are: Anxiety Disorders (Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety, Selective Mutism, Separation Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, and Generalized Anxiety); Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders (OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding, Trichotillomania, Excoriation); and Tic Disorders (Tourette's, Motor/Vocal Tic Disorder).
Anxiety is a normal emotion that we feel when we encounter a threat or stressful situation, because anxiety signals us to respond to danger or to prepare for important situations. However, when anxiety becomes all-consuming and hinders our ability to function, then we find that our life becomes smaller, darker, and more limiting. Without the resources and tools to manage anxiety, life can feel daunting, but what if we can gain control of our lives with treatment and support? I wholeheartedly believe that there is hope and possibility to thrive and live fully while living with an anxiety disorder.
My areas of expertise are: Anxiety Disorders (Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety, Selective Mutism, Separation Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, and Generalized Anxiety); Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders (OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding, Trichotillomania, Excoriation); and Tic Disorders (Tourette's, Motor/Vocal Tic Disorder).
Anxiety is a normal emotion that we feel when we encounter a threat or stressful situation, because anxiety signals us to respond to danger or to prepare for important situations. However, when anxiety becomes all-consuming and hinders our ability to function, then we find that our life becomes smaller, darker, and more limiting. Without the resources and tools to manage anxiety, life can feel daunting, but what if we can gain control of our lives with treatment and support? I wholeheartedly believe that there is hope and possibility to thrive and live fully while living with an anxiety disorder.
(202) 883-6637 View (202) 883-6637
Photo of Dr. Laurie Emmer-Martin, DSW, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Laurie Emmer-Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, CEAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The therapeutic technique that I commonly use is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Clinical Hypnosis (CH), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy all effective in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and other issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Social Worker (LCSW) currently licensed to practice in Washington D.C., North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. I provide a variety of clinical services that will meet your needs. I am dedicated to helping you work through any conflicts and challenges you may be experiencing in your personal and professional life.
The therapeutic technique that I commonly use is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Clinical Hypnosis (CH), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy all effective in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and other issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Social Worker (LCSW) currently licensed to practice in Washington D.C., North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. I provide a variety of clinical services that will meet your needs. I am dedicated to helping you work through any conflicts and challenges you may be experiencing in your personal and professional life.
(202) 559-1013 View (202) 559-1013
Photo of Sophie Bauer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Do you have intrusive thoughts that cause anxiety or distress? Do you get stuck obsessing over these thoughts and what they might mean? Have you developed compulsive behaviors, such as checking or reassurance-seeking, in response to obsessing? I work with clients on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression and stress, but I have particular expertise with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Living with OCD can feel very isolating, but it doesn't have to be. I help clients break free from the debilitating cycle of obsessions and compulsions utilizing evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
Do you have intrusive thoughts that cause anxiety or distress? Do you get stuck obsessing over these thoughts and what they might mean? Have you developed compulsive behaviors, such as checking or reassurance-seeking, in response to obsessing? I work with clients on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression and stress, but I have particular expertise with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Living with OCD can feel very isolating, but it doesn't have to be. I help clients break free from the debilitating cycle of obsessions and compulsions utilizing evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
(888) 262-1591 View (888) 262-1591
Photo of Rachel Yutzy, MSS , LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Yutzy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS , LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I am also specialized in OCD treatment.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages in individual, family, and group contexts. My practice is rooted in compassion and collaboration with clients and families, and I am experienced in working with clients through the lifespan regarding anxiety, OCD, trauma, and grief related issues. I excel in building a strong therapeutic relationship and believe this is the foundation of change and personal growth. I approach sessions with empathy and creativity, helping my clients as they learn to manage difficult emotions, navigate life’s many challenges, and cultivate healthy relationships.
I am also specialized in OCD treatment.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages in individual, family, and group contexts. My practice is rooted in compassion and collaboration with clients and families, and I am experienced in working with clients through the lifespan regarding anxiety, OCD, trauma, and grief related issues. I excel in building a strong therapeutic relationship and believe this is the foundation of change and personal growth. I approach sessions with empathy and creativity, helping my clients as they learn to manage difficult emotions, navigate life’s many challenges, and cultivate healthy relationships.
(844) 719-3413 View (844) 719-3413
Photo of Jessica Turpin, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Turpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. Are you feeling overwhelmed by constant worry and feeling stuck in repetitive thinking or behavioral patterns? As a therapist specializing in Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, I am here to support you in learning to detach from those patterns to be able to move towards a free and values-driven life. I also have experience working with a wide range of other challenges and will work with you to meet you where you are at. Together, we will find a therapeutic approach that will work best for you.
Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. Are you feeling overwhelmed by constant worry and feeling stuck in repetitive thinking or behavioral patterns? As a therapist specializing in Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, I am here to support you in learning to detach from those patterns to be able to move towards a free and values-driven life. I also have experience working with a wide range of other challenges and will work with you to meet you where you are at. Together, we will find a therapeutic approach that will work best for you.
(855) 607-0185 View (855) 607-0185
Photo of Sara Petrasso, PhD, Psychologist
Sara Petrasso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Prior to that, I worked extensively in treating OCD, phobias, and eating disorders at a practice in NYC.
I work with individuals who feel their lives are hindered by unwanted or distressing feelings, or self-defeating patterns of behavior, and who experience depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, compulsive or impulsive behaviors, or relationship difficulties. By establishing more effective coping skills and responses, positive changes can develop and lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively, exploring the foundation of the problem, identifying problematic patterns, and then developing treatment goals tailored to the unique needs of each individual client.
Prior to that, I worked extensively in treating OCD, phobias, and eating disorders at a practice in NYC.
I work with individuals who feel their lives are hindered by unwanted or distressing feelings, or self-defeating patterns of behavior, and who experience depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, compulsive or impulsive behaviors, or relationship difficulties. By establishing more effective coping skills and responses, positive changes can develop and lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively, exploring the foundation of the problem, identifying problematic patterns, and then developing treatment goals tailored to the unique needs of each individual client.
(202) 618-5571 View (202) 618-5571
Photo of Kirsten L. McNelis - Changes Psychological Services, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC specializes in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and mood disorders, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. CBT is an evidence-based, solution-focused and goal-oriented treatment, which focuses primarily on the here-and-now.
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC specializes in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and mood disorders, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. CBT is an evidence-based, solution-focused and goal-oriented treatment, which focuses primarily on the here-and-now.
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Photo of Sapna Doshi, PhD, Psychologist
Sapna Doshi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Doshi specializes in the treating of eating disorders, body image concerns, behavioral weight management, pre & post bariatric counseling, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, and multicultural and identity-related concerns. She utilizes scientific, evidence-based approaches to inform her treatment with clients. She specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Dr. Doshi specializes in the treating of eating disorders, body image concerns, behavioral weight management, pre & post bariatric counseling, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, and multicultural and identity-related concerns. She utilizes scientific, evidence-based approaches to inform her treatment with clients. She specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
(703) 783-9118 View (703) 783-9118
Photo of Hannah Ehrenzeller, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Ehrenzeller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety and OCD can have relentless impacts on our lives. If you’ve found that you can’t stop playing mental ping-pong in your head, feel that others may not quite understand your concerns, or find that once one worry goes away, another pops up...you’re in the right place! I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. In my approach, we target the “why” behind your anxiety, where it comes from, and how we can get your to a place where you feel less doubts, more confident, and empowered to know what to do when fear strikes.
Anxiety and OCD can have relentless impacts on our lives. If you’ve found that you can’t stop playing mental ping-pong in your head, feel that others may not quite understand your concerns, or find that once one worry goes away, another pops up...you’re in the right place! I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. In my approach, we target the “why” behind your anxiety, where it comes from, and how we can get your to a place where you feel less doubts, more confident, and empowered to know what to do when fear strikes.
(855) 671-1585 View (855) 671-1585
Photo of Renee L DeBoard-Lucas, PhD, Psychologist
Renee L DeBoard-Lucas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting PCIT referrals! Dr. Renee DeBoard-Lucas is a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience treating trauma and anxiety in children, teens, and adults. She is passionate about using evidence based treatments because these treatments work and instill hope that people can get better! She is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and is trained in Prolonged Exposure therapy. Dr. DeBoard-Lucas provides Exposure and Response Prevention and Habit Reversal Training for OCD & Tic Disorders. Dr. DeBoard-Lucas currently has openings for PCIT, for children age 2-7 years with behavioral concerns.
Accepting PCIT referrals! Dr. Renee DeBoard-Lucas is a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience treating trauma and anxiety in children, teens, and adults. She is passionate about using evidence based treatments because these treatments work and instill hope that people can get better! She is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and is trained in Prolonged Exposure therapy. Dr. DeBoard-Lucas provides Exposure and Response Prevention and Habit Reversal Training for OCD & Tic Disorders. Dr. DeBoard-Lucas currently has openings for PCIT, for children age 2-7 years with behavioral concerns.
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Photo of Dr. Meghan Keely McMackin, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Meghan Keely McMackin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
I specialize in treating anxiety and OCD and co-occurring problems, including ADHD and depression. I have substantial experience treating these conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. In my work with children and adolescents, I also work directly with parents to promote treatment progress. My approach as a therapist is warm, compassionate, and strengths-based. I see my clients in a positive light, emphasizing their strengths and positive qualities and harnessing them to promote lasting change. I believe that through a collaborative therapeutic relationship, we can work together to meet your goals.
I specialize in treating anxiety and OCD and co-occurring problems, including ADHD and depression. I have substantial experience treating these conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. In my work with children and adolescents, I also work directly with parents to promote treatment progress. My approach as a therapist is warm, compassionate, and strengths-based. I see my clients in a positive light, emphasizing their strengths and positive qualities and harnessing them to promote lasting change. I believe that through a collaborative therapeutic relationship, we can work together to meet your goals.
(202) 925-8719 View (202) 925-8719
Photo of Stephanie Woodrow, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Stephanie Woodrow
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My areas of expertise are: Anxiety Disorders (Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety, Illness Anxiety); Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders (OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding, Trichotillomania, Excoriation); and Tic Disorders (Tourette's, Motor/Vocal Tic Disorder).
Anxiety is a normal emotion. Without it, we wouldn't prepare for job interviews, study for tests, or move out of the way of an oncoming car. But for some, anxiety becomes overwhelming & interferes with daily living. When anxiety becomes maladaptive it can be distressing, scary & embarrassing. The good news is anxiety disorders are treatable. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder & related problems from a cognitive behavioral perspective. My goal is to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their individual goals, and live full & productive lives.
My areas of expertise are: Anxiety Disorders (Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety, Illness Anxiety); Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders (OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding, Trichotillomania, Excoriation); and Tic Disorders (Tourette's, Motor/Vocal Tic Disorder).
Anxiety is a normal emotion. Without it, we wouldn't prepare for job interviews, study for tests, or move out of the way of an oncoming car. But for some, anxiety becomes overwhelming & interferes with daily living. When anxiety becomes maladaptive it can be distressing, scary & embarrassing. The good news is anxiety disorders are treatable. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder & related problems from a cognitive behavioral perspective. My goal is to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their individual goals, and live full & productive lives.
(202) 980-3371 View (202) 980-3371
Photo of Yassmin Eldouh, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yassmin Eldouh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My area of focus is providing culturally competent counseling to individuals of varying mental health difficulties. I work with clients with various presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions. In addition to being a licensed therapist, I am completing my PhD in counseling. My intersectional identities as an Arab-Asian woman from a Muslim background allows me to experience understanding and empathy for those from varying backgrounds and identities.
Hello and welcome! My area of focus is providing culturally competent counseling to individuals of varying mental health difficulties. I work with clients with various presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions. In addition to being a licensed therapist, I am completing my PhD in counseling. My intersectional identities as an Arab-Asian woman from a Muslim background allows me to experience understanding and empathy for those from varying backgrounds and identities.
(940) 329-2591 View (940) 329-2591
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Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.