Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Kelowna, BC

Photo of Dr. Constance Heidt, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Constance Heidt
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
I provide exposure and response prevention (ERP) to address symptoms of OCD and I can provide either prolonged exposure (PE) or cognitive processing therapy (CPT) for symptoms of PTSD.
I am a registered psychologist working in private practice. I received my PhD from the University of Saskatchewan (2019) and began my career working at a children’s hospital for two years providing services for mental health concerns within a medical setting. Since then, I have been working in private practice providing a range of in-person and remote assessment and intervention services to children, adolescents, parents/caregivers, and adults. I use a collaborative approach that focuses on your individual needs and cultural preferences while ensuring the treatment and techniques are proven effective for your mental health concerns.
I provide exposure and response prevention (ERP) to address symptoms of OCD and I can provide either prolonged exposure (PE) or cognitive processing therapy (CPT) for symptoms of PTSD.
I am a registered psychologist working in private practice. I received my PhD from the University of Saskatchewan (2019) and began my career working at a children’s hospital for two years providing services for mental health concerns within a medical setting. Since then, I have been working in private practice providing a range of in-person and remote assessment and intervention services to children, adolescents, parents/caregivers, and adults. I use a collaborative approach that focuses on your individual needs and cultural preferences while ensuring the treatment and techniques are proven effective for your mental health concerns.
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Photo of Richelle Reid, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Richelle Reid
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1V  (Online Only)
Anxiety and OCD can overtake your life.
OCD and other forms of anxiety can suck the joy out of our lives. I have very personal experience since my own daughter has OCD and our family struggled to find adequate care. This is what inspired me to get the education and training to give individuals and families what they desperately need: a therapist that truly understands OCD and anxiety and can help you to navigate when worry is eroding your life. Whether it is for yourself or for a family member there a way to fight back and reclaim your life!
Anxiety and OCD can overtake your life.
OCD and other forms of anxiety can suck the joy out of our lives. I have very personal experience since my own daughter has OCD and our family struggled to find adequate care. This is what inspired me to get the education and training to give individuals and families what they desperately need: a therapist that truly understands OCD and anxiety and can help you to navigate when worry is eroding your life. Whether it is for yourself or for a family member there a way to fight back and reclaim your life!
(250) 215-0949 View (250) 215-0949
Photo of Kate Kemp, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kate Kemp
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My specialities include anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder ( OCD), relationship and sexual difficulties.
Hi, I’m Kate. I understand that seeking counselling can take a lot of courage, so I am glad you’re here to explore ways to achieve your well-being and personal growth. From my own experiences, I’ve developed a strong passion for supporting others. My own journey through counselling has shown me just how powerful therapy can be. I genuinely believe that everyone, no matter what they've been through, has incredible inner strength and the potential to heal and live a fulfilling life.
My specialities include anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder ( OCD), relationship and sexual difficulties.
Hi, I’m Kate. I understand that seeking counselling can take a lot of courage, so I am glad you’re here to explore ways to achieve your well-being and personal growth. From my own experiences, I’ve developed a strong passion for supporting others. My own journey through counselling has shown me just how powerful therapy can be. I genuinely believe that everyone, no matter what they've been through, has incredible inner strength and the potential to heal and live a fulfilling life.
(236) 309-3579 View (236) 309-3579
Photo of Sandra Wallace Anxiety Coach, RPN, Psychiatric Nurse
Sandra Wallace Anxiety Coach
Psychiatric Nurse, RPN
Not Verified Not Verified
Kelowna, BC V1X  (Online Only)
I've lived with OCD for over 27 years.
Most of my clients struggle with Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder ( OCD) and/or Depression. Often times, their day-to-day activities suffer due to the implications of these challenges. Their relationships, professional goals, and personal aspirations seem difficult to realize. Their primary goal is to live purposeful, happy lives alongside Anxiety, Depression, and/or OCD. They wish to manage the impact of these challenging mental health problems and feel empowered.
I've lived with OCD for over 27 years.
Most of my clients struggle with Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder ( OCD) and/or Depression. Often times, their day-to-day activities suffer due to the implications of these challenges. Their relationships, professional goals, and personal aspirations seem difficult to realize. Their primary goal is to live purposeful, happy lives alongside Anxiety, Depression, and/or OCD. They wish to manage the impact of these challenging mental health problems and feel empowered.
(431) 531-8702 View (431) 531-8702
Photo of Eva Harris, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Eva Harris
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD and Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
Hello, I am a registered psychologist working online with adults across British Columbia. I provide evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals, teach practical skills, and provide empathetic support throughout the ups and downs of treatment. My clients say they value my authenticity and warmth, and I admire their bravery and determination to improve their lives.
I have specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD and Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
Hello, I am a registered psychologist working online with adults across British Columbia. I provide evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals, teach practical skills, and provide empathetic support throughout the ups and downs of treatment. My clients say they value my authenticity and warmth, and I admire their bravery and determination to improve their lives.
(778) 767-4516 View (778) 767-4516
Photo of Sam Rumak, PhD, Psychologist
Sam Rumak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
I work mainly within a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) framework and I am skilled at utilizing exposure therapy for anxiety and OCD (ERP).
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues? I am here to help you. I primarily offer therapy via videoconference or telephone to adults living in British Columbia. I have experience and enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and those with complex presentations. I am skilled at helping individuals manage depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive, compulsive disorder, skin picking or hair pulling, psychosis, work stress and anxiety related to life changes.
I work mainly within a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) framework and I am skilled at utilizing exposure therapy for anxiety and OCD (ERP).
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues? I am here to help you. I primarily offer therapy via videoconference or telephone to adults living in British Columbia. I have experience and enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and those with complex presentations. I am skilled at helping individuals manage depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive, compulsive disorder, skin picking or hair pulling, psychosis, work stress and anxiety related to life changes.
(236) 349-1076 View (236) 349-1076
Photo of Hayley Clausing, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Hayley Clausing
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P  (Online Only)
Hayley specializes in working with individuals who are experiencing symptoms of OCD ( Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and high anxiety. She understands the distress that comes with intrusive thoughts, repetitive rumination and repetitive behaviours, and how one's life can be greatly affected. She is equipped to support the complexity of each unique experience of OCD and anxiety. All sessions are conducted online via Zoom.
Hayley specializes in working with individuals who are experiencing symptoms of OCD ( Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and high anxiety. She understands the distress that comes with intrusive thoughts, repetitive rumination and repetitive behaviours, and how one's life can be greatly affected. She is equipped to support the complexity of each unique experience of OCD and anxiety. All sessions are conducted online via Zoom.
(581) 481-8310 View (581) 481-8310
Photo of Julia Datoff - Yulia Datov @ Heal Counselling Center, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Yulia Datov @ Heal Counselling Center
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are highly trained and specialize in treating a wide array of mental health disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Substance Misuse, BPD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, personality disorders, learning disabilities, trauma, and more.
Whether you are reaching out for the first time or looking for a new therapist, I am here to offer my support and guidance. With warmth and understanding, I aim to assist you in exploring the twists and turns of your thoughts and feelings, making the journey to well-being a little easier. I have trained in several evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. At our Counselling Center, we have experienced, licensed psychotherapists, psychologists and social workers available to work with you.
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are highly trained and specialize in treating a wide array of mental health disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Substance Misuse, BPD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, personality disorders, learning disabilities, trauma, and more.
Whether you are reaching out for the first time or looking for a new therapist, I am here to offer my support and guidance. With warmth and understanding, I aim to assist you in exploring the twists and turns of your thoughts and feelings, making the journey to well-being a little easier. I have trained in several evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. At our Counselling Center, we have experienced, licensed psychotherapists, psychologists and social workers available to work with you.
(587) 840-4753 View (587) 840-4753
Photo of Katya Verzilova, RSW, MSW, ART, CVAP, Registered Social Worker
Katya Verzilova
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, ART, CVAP
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted? Seeking meaningful change in your life and relationships? I offer individual and couples counselling from a trauma-informed approach to help you explore difficult emotions, understand patterns that keep you stuck, and develop effective regulation skills. I support individuals in processing trauma (PTSD, sexual, childhood), stress, anxiety (phobias, panic, OCD), grief, spiritual and existential concerns, self-criticism, and relationship issues
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted? Seeking meaningful change in your life and relationships? I offer individual and couples counselling from a trauma-informed approach to help you explore difficult emotions, understand patterns that keep you stuck, and develop effective regulation skills. I support individuals in processing trauma (PTSD, sexual, childhood), stress, anxiety (phobias, panic, OCD), grief, spiritual and existential concerns, self-criticism, and relationship issues
(431) 813-0985 View (431) 813-0985
Photo of Vincent Paul Matlo, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Vincent Paul Matlo
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I provide treatment to individuals seeking support for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and those seeking to reduce symptoms of anxiety, OCD, and depression.
I bring over 20 years of experience supporting children and families to my practice with Kelowna Professional Group. My longstanding interest in the role of attachment as a means to foster deeper and more empathic relationships speaks to the intuition of individuals and families. My "smarter, not harder" approach is delivered with refreshing clarity, and families looking for strategies to improve relationships, foster self-fulfillment, and achieve peace of mind will appreciate my practical and collaborative approach.
I provide treatment to individuals seeking support for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and those seeking to reduce symptoms of anxiety, OCD, and depression.
I bring over 20 years of experience supporting children and families to my practice with Kelowna Professional Group. My longstanding interest in the role of attachment as a means to foster deeper and more empathic relationships speaks to the intuition of individuals and families. My "smarter, not harder" approach is delivered with refreshing clarity, and families looking for strategies to improve relationships, foster self-fulfillment, and achieve peace of mind will appreciate my practical and collaborative approach.
(844) 704-1243 View (844) 704-1243
Photo of Kathryn Whatman, MSW , RSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kathryn Whatman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I am a graduate student counsellor completing my Master of Clinical Social Work degree at UBCO, with a Bachelor of Psychology and 8 years of experience in the mental health sector. I practice a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, specializing in trauma work and working with anxiety disorders including OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, and Phobias. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am a graduate student counsellor completing my Master of Clinical Social Work degree at UBCO, with a Bachelor of Psychology and 8 years of experience in the mental health sector. I practice a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, specializing in trauma work and working with anxiety disorders including OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, and Phobias. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(548) 761-8215 View (548) 761-8215
Photo of Spela Grasic, RCC, MACP, MA, Counsellor
Spela Grasic
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X
Specific challenges I might be able to help with include: Anxiety; emotional regulation (everything from feeling tingly and buzzy all over, to feeling so furious you think you’re going to burst, to feeling completely empty and detached); self-injury, depression, academic stress, and OCD (those annoying or downright terrifying thoughts that leave you stuck).
Our lives, feelings, thoughts, and relationships can be messy. Sometimes, it can all feel like it’s just too much. I know what that’s like. I also know it’s just a little bit easier when, instead of turning away, someone chooses to sit with you in those moments and says: "This isn’t too much. You’re not (insert terrible thing you fear is true about you), and, you don’t have to hold this alone.” I believe that’s my job as a therapist – to sit with you in the midst of all that messiness and help you hold the painful and overwhelming parts. From there, we can work together to untangle it and move towards your hopes and dreams.
Specific challenges I might be able to help with include: Anxiety; emotional regulation (everything from feeling tingly and buzzy all over, to feeling so furious you think you’re going to burst, to feeling completely empty and detached); self-injury, depression, academic stress, and OCD (those annoying or downright terrifying thoughts that leave you stuck).
Our lives, feelings, thoughts, and relationships can be messy. Sometimes, it can all feel like it’s just too much. I know what that’s like. I also know it’s just a little bit easier when, instead of turning away, someone chooses to sit with you in those moments and says: "This isn’t too much. You’re not (insert terrible thing you fear is true about you), and, you don’t have to hold this alone.” I believe that’s my job as a therapist – to sit with you in the midst of all that messiness and help you hold the painful and overwhelming parts. From there, we can work together to untangle it and move towards your hopes and dreams.
(587) 602-9636 View (587) 602-9636
Photo of Jocelyn Watson, MSW, RSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Jocelyn Watson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
Are you seeking support for religious trauma, complex trauma, your relationship with food and body, or scrupulosity OCD? Emotional, physical and spiritual pain can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world around us. These disconnections can make it difficult to manage in our daily lives - let alone find support. However, I believe that therapy is one of the ways that we can begin the process of re-connecting with our selves, bodies, and communities. In our work together, I will seek to provide an openness that meets you where you’re at with empathy and non-judgement.
Are you seeking support for religious trauma, complex trauma, your relationship with food and body, or scrupulosity OCD? Emotional, physical and spiritual pain can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world around us. These disconnections can make it difficult to manage in our daily lives - let alone find support. However, I believe that therapy is one of the ways that we can begin the process of re-connecting with our selves, bodies, and communities. In our work together, I will seek to provide an openness that meets you where you’re at with empathy and non-judgement.
(587) 871-8396 View (587) 871-8396
Photo of Dr. Sarah Daniels, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Sarah Daniels
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I offer assessment and treatment services to clients aged 16+ across British Columbia. I treat a broad range of conditions but I particularly specialize in anxiety and OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and behavioural change (e.g., substance use, eating and healthy weight, lifestyle changes). I have worked in many settings including services for substance use, chronic pain, body image, healthy weight and bariatric surgery, community mental health, neuropsychological assessment, and inpatient and forensic settings. Whether you’re facing daily stressors or deeply rooted concerns, I’m here to guide you towards positive change.
I offer assessment and treatment services to clients aged 16+ across British Columbia. I treat a broad range of conditions but I particularly specialize in anxiety and OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and behavioural change (e.g., substance use, eating and healthy weight, lifestyle changes). I have worked in many settings including services for substance use, chronic pain, body image, healthy weight and bariatric surgery, community mental health, neuropsychological assessment, and inpatient and forensic settings. Whether you’re facing daily stressors or deeply rooted concerns, I’m here to guide you towards positive change.
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Photo of Gabrielle Poon, PhD, Psychologist
Gabrielle Poon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Many patients seek out services with Dr. Poon as she has considerable experience treating difficulties such as depression, anxiety (generalized, health-related, panic), obsessive thoughts, compulsions, trauma, anger, and substance use, in addition to relationship- and work-related stress. She has received training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Many patients seek out services with Dr. Poon as she has considerable experience treating difficulties such as depression, anxiety (generalized, health-related, panic), obsessive thoughts, compulsions, trauma, anger, and substance use, in addition to relationship- and work-related stress. She has received training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(825) 254-9399 View (825) 254-9399
Photo of Izabella Zalewski, BA, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Izabella Zalewski
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1W
If you suffer from depression, anxiety or OCD, I will be honored to offer non-judgmental compassion and tools from my extensive knowledge of therapies to guide you towards hope and a life worth getting excited for.
Does it feel like all you and your partner seem to do lately is argue, feel impatient with one another and seem to misunderstand what each of you is trying to communicate. Or perhaps the issues are in the area of sexual intimacy where you feel like neither of you is receiving what you desire whether due to lack of knowledge, communication, trauma, or sexual dysfunction. Perhaps even one, or both of you have experienced infidelity in your relationship. We are wired for connection, and when we feel disconnected from our intimate "other", this can trigger in us a deep sense of abandonment, leaving us feeling alone and lonely.
If you suffer from depression, anxiety or OCD, I will be honored to offer non-judgmental compassion and tools from my extensive knowledge of therapies to guide you towards hope and a life worth getting excited for.
Does it feel like all you and your partner seem to do lately is argue, feel impatient with one another and seem to misunderstand what each of you is trying to communicate. Or perhaps the issues are in the area of sexual intimacy where you feel like neither of you is receiving what you desire whether due to lack of knowledge, communication, trauma, or sexual dysfunction. Perhaps even one, or both of you have experienced infidelity in your relationship. We are wired for connection, and when we feel disconnected from our intimate "other", this can trigger in us a deep sense of abandonment, leaving us feeling alone and lonely.
(587) 844-0721 View (587) 844-0721
Photo of Daniel Spring - Dan Spring | Neurodiversity | ADHD | Autism , MA, RCC, Counsellor
Dan Spring | Neurodiversity | ADHD | Autism
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P  (Online Only)
As a clinical counsellor, I combine extensive research experience with years of addressing depression, anxiety, addiction, Autism, ADHD/ADD, OCD, and PTSD.
In the face of life’s unexpected challenges, you may be feeling overwhelmed and stuck. My role as your counsellor is to be your guide, meeting you in your present moment, and moving at your pace, giving you practical tools to cope and overcome. Together, we’ll navigate a compassionate, judgment-free space, focusing on regaining control and fostering a healthier, happier life. My goal is to aid you in achieving peace of mind and enhancing your overall quality of life.
As a clinical counsellor, I combine extensive research experience with years of addressing depression, anxiety, addiction, Autism, ADHD/ADD, OCD, and PTSD.
In the face of life’s unexpected challenges, you may be feeling overwhelmed and stuck. My role as your counsellor is to be your guide, meeting you in your present moment, and moving at your pace, giving you practical tools to cope and overcome. Together, we’ll navigate a compassionate, judgment-free space, focusing on regaining control and fostering a healthier, happier life. My goal is to aid you in achieving peace of mind and enhancing your overall quality of life.
(825) 305-5321 View (825) 305-5321
Photo of Debbie Leung - Wise Mind Centre, PhD, R, Psych, Psychologist
Wise Mind Centre
Psychologist, PhD, R, Psych
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P
Wise Mind Centre is a Vancouver-based psychology clinic that provides in-person counselling services in Vancouver, Burnaby, and surrounding areas, and online services to all residents in British Columbia. Our psychologists help individuals struggling with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, depression, substance use, emotional eating, parenting difficulties, self-harm, trauma, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, marital problems, and BPD. We offer primarily CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based treatments. You may book online with us directly here: https://wisemindcentre.janeapp.com/.
Wise Mind Centre is a Vancouver-based psychology clinic that provides in-person counselling services in Vancouver, Burnaby, and surrounding areas, and online services to all residents in British Columbia. Our psychologists help individuals struggling with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, depression, substance use, emotional eating, parenting difficulties, self-harm, trauma, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, marital problems, and BPD. We offer primarily CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based treatments. You may book online with us directly here: https://wisemindcentre.janeapp.com/.
(778) 608-5867 View (778) 608-5867
Photo of Bianca Bucarelli, PhD, Psychologist
Bianca Bucarelli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Waitlist for new clients. Please contact me for details. I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist and Certified Organizational Coach specializing in: Anxiety, OCD, Self-criticism, Perfectionism, Sleep issues (CBT for insomnia), Workplace wellness, Leadership development, and Career growth. I offer evidence-based treatment tailored to your strengths and needs. I am happy to offer free initial consultations to discuss what it might be like to work together. Visit my website to book online.
Waitlist for new clients. Please contact me for details. I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist and Certified Organizational Coach specializing in: Anxiety, OCD, Self-criticism, Perfectionism, Sleep issues (CBT for insomnia), Workplace wellness, Leadership development, and Career growth. I offer evidence-based treatment tailored to your strengths and needs. I am happy to offer free initial consultations to discuss what it might be like to work together. Visit my website to book online.
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Photo of Rachel Jones-McKinley, BScOT, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Rachel Jones-McKinley
Counsellor, BScOT, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life presents us with challenges that we didn't ask for. This can feel unfair, and navigating our struggles can feel overwhelming. It's not lost on me the strength that it takes to seek help. I believe in resilience, and that you know yourself better than anyone. Sometimes you just need some support discovering your true self.
Sometimes life presents us with challenges that we didn't ask for. This can feel unfair, and navigating our struggles can feel overwhelming. It's not lost on me the strength that it takes to seek help. I believe in resilience, and that you know yourself better than anyone. Sometimes you just need some support discovering your true self.
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Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counsellors

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, fluoxetine, and sertraline, 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.