Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Guelph, ON

Photo of Michel Thibodeau, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Michel Thibodeau
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Michel (Mike) Thibodeau is a clinical psychologist and member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario. His practice focuses on the assessment and treatment of adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety-related disorders. He is committed to delivering efficient evidence-based treatment using cognitive behavioural therapy and exposure and response prevention guided by current research on best practices. His pragmatic skills-based approach is paired with a collaborative therapeutic style to empower his clients to make lasting changes.
Dr. Michel (Mike) Thibodeau is a clinical psychologist and member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario. His practice focuses on the assessment and treatment of adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety-related disorders. He is committed to delivering efficient evidence-based treatment using cognitive behavioural therapy and exposure and response prevention guided by current research on best practices. His pragmatic skills-based approach is paired with a collaborative therapeutic style to empower his clients to make lasting changes.
(226) 705-0576 View (226) 705-0576
Photo of Heather Hood - Guelph CBT, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Guelph CBT
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1E
Guelph CBT is a collaborative team of mental health professionals working together to help you make meaningful and lasting changes in your life. We offer evidence-based assessments and therapies that have been shown by research to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat psychological difficulties. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, depression, or other emotional problems, or if you are looking to make changes in your life, our team of warm and supportive professionals will work together with you to help you reach your goals.
Guelph CBT is a collaborative team of mental health professionals working together to help you make meaningful and lasting changes in your life. We offer evidence-based assessments and therapies that have been shown by research to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat psychological difficulties. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, depression, or other emotional problems, or if you are looking to make changes in your life, our team of warm and supportive professionals will work together with you to help you reach your goals.
(519) 265-9596 View (519) 265-9596
Photo of Frank Pew - True North Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
True North Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
At True North Psychotherapy, we bring over 15 years of clinical experience and training supporting trauma survivors and individuals facing mental health difficulties. Our expertise lies in the assessment and treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder ( OCD) and anxiety related disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), emotion dysregulation, impulsivity, and trauma. At True North Psychotherapy, we provide gold-standard psychotherapy that is balanced between acceptance and change. Our team of Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists specialize in evidenced-based clinical care for children, adolescents and adults.
At True North Psychotherapy, we bring over 15 years of clinical experience and training supporting trauma survivors and individuals facing mental health difficulties. Our expertise lies in the assessment and treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder ( OCD) and anxiety related disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), emotion dysregulation, impulsivity, and trauma. At True North Psychotherapy, we provide gold-standard psychotherapy that is balanced between acceptance and change. Our team of Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists specialize in evidenced-based clinical care for children, adolescents and adults.
(226) 457-6629 View (226) 457-6629
Photo of Heather Hood, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Heather Hood
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1E
I am a Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO). I provide clinical assessment and evidence-based therapy for a range of emotional and adjustment related difficulties, with a primary focus on the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. I have received specialized training and have expertise in treating anxiety, obsessive-compulsive (e.g., OCD, trichotillomania, skin picking), depression and bipolar, and trauma-related (i.e., PTSD) disorders. Other areas of clinical interest include stress, health anxiety, and emotion regulation difficulties.
I am a Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO). I provide clinical assessment and evidence-based therapy for a range of emotional and adjustment related difficulties, with a primary focus on the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. I have received specialized training and have expertise in treating anxiety, obsessive-compulsive (e.g., OCD, trichotillomania, skin picking), depression and bipolar, and trauma-related (i.e., PTSD) disorders. Other areas of clinical interest include stress, health anxiety, and emotion regulation difficulties.
(519) 265-9596 View (519) 265-9596
Photo of Rebecca Ker, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rebecca Ker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
I believe in, and have extensive expertise in using evidence-based practices (EMDR, ERP/ExRP) to treat PTSD, anxiety, and OCD.
If you are experiencing anxiety that can be debilitating, the effects of trauma that has not been processed or is "stuck", life can seem like a mountain that is too high to climb. What you are doing now, by seeking help, is a huge first step. There is hope, and I can help you discover and strengthen the skills required to get you where you'd like to be.
I believe in, and have extensive expertise in using evidence-based practices (EMDR, ERP/ExRP) to treat PTSD, anxiety, and OCD.
If you are experiencing anxiety that can be debilitating, the effects of trauma that has not been processed or is "stuck", life can seem like a mountain that is too high to climb. What you are doing now, by seeking help, is a huge first step. There is hope, and I can help you discover and strengthen the skills required to get you where you'd like to be.
(888) 324-3761 View (888) 324-3761
Photo of Sabrina Popernitsch, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Sabrina Popernitsch
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1E
I have experience with/special interests in OCD, trauma, spirituality, and neurodivergence (ASD/ADHD).
I'm passionate about creating a space that is empowering, non-judgmental and compassionate. I believe the relationship between the therapist and the client is integral to the process of therapy, and as such, I put emphasis on building a connection where you can be seen and supported. I use an integrative approach to therapy and utilize a trauma-informed, person-centered lens to explore healing, with techniques from an array of models of therapy. I work with my clients to address the root cause of present day concerns through intentional, pro-active listening and collaborate with my clients strengths. I work with children and youth.
I have experience with/special interests in OCD, trauma, spirituality, and neurodivergence (ASD/ADHD).
I'm passionate about creating a space that is empowering, non-judgmental and compassionate. I believe the relationship between the therapist and the client is integral to the process of therapy, and as such, I put emphasis on building a connection where you can be seen and supported. I use an integrative approach to therapy and utilize a trauma-informed, person-centered lens to explore healing, with techniques from an array of models of therapy. I work with my clients to address the root cause of present day concerns through intentional, pro-active listening and collaborate with my clients strengths. I work with children and youth.
(226) 457-6541 View (226) 457-6541
Photo of Sabrina Popernitsch, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sabrina Popernitsch
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1E
I have experience with/special interests in OCD, trauma, spiritual and holistic wellness, and neurodivergence (ASD/ADHD).
I'm passionate about creating a space that is empowering, non-judgmental and compassionate. I believe the relationship between the therapist and the client is integral to the process of therapy, and as such, I put emphasis on building a connection where you can be seen and supported. I use an integrative approach to therapy and utilize a trauma-informed, person-centered lens to explore healing, with techniques from an array of models of therapy. I work with my clients to address the root cause of present day concerns through intentional, pro-active listening and collaborate with my clients strengths.
I have experience with/special interests in OCD, trauma, spiritual and holistic wellness, and neurodivergence (ASD/ADHD).
I'm passionate about creating a space that is empowering, non-judgmental and compassionate. I believe the relationship between the therapist and the client is integral to the process of therapy, and as such, I put emphasis on building a connection where you can be seen and supported. I use an integrative approach to therapy and utilize a trauma-informed, person-centered lens to explore healing, with techniques from an array of models of therapy. I work with my clients to address the root cause of present day concerns through intentional, pro-active listening and collaborate with my clients strengths.
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Photo of Katherine Schmidt, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Katherine Schmidt
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
While I work with a wide range of concerns, I specialize in working with people struggling with anxiety, OCD, stress management, and university/college students.
Are you feeling stuck, stressed and unsure how to move forward? Are things like anxiety, depression and stress impacting how you want to live you life? Do you feel like you keep repeating the same patterns that leave you feeling lost, disconnected and frustrated? So often we can find ourselves in these loops that are painful, disheartening and exhausting. Through individual psychotherapy, we can build skills and work towards your goals to help you create a life that is meaningful and important to YOU. It is my belief that everyone has the capacity to grow, heal and change, even through difficult circumstances.
While I work with a wide range of concerns, I specialize in working with people struggling with anxiety, OCD, stress management, and university/college students.
Are you feeling stuck, stressed and unsure how to move forward? Are things like anxiety, depression and stress impacting how you want to live you life? Do you feel like you keep repeating the same patterns that leave you feeling lost, disconnected and frustrated? So often we can find ourselves in these loops that are painful, disheartening and exhausting. Through individual psychotherapy, we can build skills and work towards your goals to help you create a life that is meaningful and important to YOU. It is my belief that everyone has the capacity to grow, heal and change, even through difficult circumstances.
(365) 601-6822 View (365) 601-6822
Photo of Daniel Seddon, MACP, CPsych, Psychologist
Daniel Seddon
Psychologist, MACP, CPsych
Verified Verified
Online Only
Most of my clients seek me out for my experience treating OCD and other anxiety presentations.
I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with OCD and/or other anxiety problems. Do you struggle with unwanted, bothersome thoughts about harm, germs, relationships, or sexual themes? Are you stuck in a cycle of excessive worry that you can't seem to stop no matter what you do? Do you find yourself engaging in repetitive behaviours only for the anxiety to return? These are my areas of practice and I want to help.
Most of my clients seek me out for my experience treating OCD and other anxiety presentations.
I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with OCD and/or other anxiety problems. Do you struggle with unwanted, bothersome thoughts about harm, germs, relationships, or sexual themes? Are you stuck in a cycle of excessive worry that you can't seem to stop no matter what you do? Do you find yourself engaging in repetitive behaviours only for the anxiety to return? These are my areas of practice and I want to help.
(365) 297-2742 View (365) 297-2742
Photo of Dr. Ava D Agar, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Ava D Agar
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a doctoral clinical psychologist and I am currently accepting assessment and therapy clients. Using a CBT approach (and borrowing from other approaches as needed), I aim to provide you with empathic support while helping you build skills to make meaningful changes in your life and to maintain your wellbeing over time. I work with adults who have depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, trauma/PTSD, OCD, and/or executive dysfunction challenges that are impacting their relationships, academic, work, and general life functioning.
I am a doctoral clinical psychologist and I am currently accepting assessment and therapy clients. Using a CBT approach (and borrowing from other approaches as needed), I aim to provide you with empathic support while helping you build skills to make meaningful changes in your life and to maintain your wellbeing over time. I work with adults who have depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, trauma/PTSD, OCD, and/or executive dysfunction challenges that are impacting their relationships, academic, work, and general life functioning.
(548) 918-5274 View (548) 918-5274
Photo of Edith Townsend, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Edith Townsend
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I have specialities which include compulsive behaviours such as hypersexuality, gambling, video gaming, shopping, and eating behaviours as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
With over 22 years of clinical experience and training in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma, my practice offers evidence-based therapies to provide an opportunity for clients to attain self-awareness, behaviour change, and personal growth and recovery in an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. My interests include mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self esteem, and substance and behavioural addictions. I'm dedicated to helping clients build a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
I have specialities which include compulsive behaviours such as hypersexuality, gambling, video gaming, shopping, and eating behaviours as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
With over 22 years of clinical experience and training in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma, my practice offers evidence-based therapies to provide an opportunity for clients to attain self-awareness, behaviour change, and personal growth and recovery in an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. My interests include mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self esteem, and substance and behavioural addictions. I'm dedicated to helping clients build a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
(226) 779-7805 View (226) 779-7805
Photo of Mary Lee Knox-Bauer - Sparks Counselling , RP (Q), MACP, BA, MOA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sparks Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MACP, BA, MOA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I use an integrative, and individualized approach in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, fainting, suicidal ideation, self-harming etc., in relation to chronic pain, phobias, OCD, social isolation, ADHD, life transitions, grief, body dysmorphia (body image), sexuality, relationships, infidelity, burn-out, break-ups and blended families. We can decide which modalities together, since each one has its strengths and weaknesses depending on the presenting issues: ACT, Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Humanistic, Solution-Focused (SFT), Strength-based, and Cognitive Processing (CPT).
I use an integrative, and individualized approach in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, fainting, suicidal ideation, self-harming etc., in relation to chronic pain, phobias, OCD, social isolation, ADHD, life transitions, grief, body dysmorphia (body image), sexuality, relationships, infidelity, burn-out, break-ups and blended families. We can decide which modalities together, since each one has its strengths and weaknesses depending on the presenting issues: ACT, Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Humanistic, Solution-Focused (SFT), Strength-based, and Cognitive Processing (CPT).
(226) 741-4487 View (226) 741-4487
Photo of Rajan Chhatkuli, MA, MSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rajan Chhatkuli
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1L
If you are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions such as anxiety, anxiety related with pandemic, social anxiety, panic disorder, anxiety and depression, trauma, grief, burnout, insomnia, OCD, feeling negative, having identity issues, finding challenging to deal with your past trauma and difficult to cope, please connect with me.
With more than five years of assisting individuals with various challenges in different social work settings has given me a deeper understanding of current issues and expertise that impacts clients.I've been able to use my clinical skills to assist vulnerable individuals experiencing mental health issues with many barriers; and mental illness such as clinical depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, substance use, inclusive of co-morbid conditions and history of trauma,The prime focus while serving these clients are to assist them to manage their issues and stabilize their reintegration back into their normal setting.
If you are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions such as anxiety, anxiety related with pandemic, social anxiety, panic disorder, anxiety and depression, trauma, grief, burnout, insomnia, OCD, feeling negative, having identity issues, finding challenging to deal with your past trauma and difficult to cope, please connect with me.
With more than five years of assisting individuals with various challenges in different social work settings has given me a deeper understanding of current issues and expertise that impacts clients.I've been able to use my clinical skills to assist vulnerable individuals experiencing mental health issues with many barriers; and mental illness such as clinical depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, substance use, inclusive of co-morbid conditions and history of trauma,The prime focus while serving these clients are to assist them to manage their issues and stabilize their reintegration back into their normal setting.
(226) 457-6863 View (226) 457-6863
Photo of Gilan Abdelaal, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Gilan Abdelaal
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialized in working with patients who have experience trauma and are struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and addiction.
I am a strong believer in providing immediate access to mental health support as well as providing culturally sensitive, inclusive and trauma focused therapy. I aim to use a client centered approach where the patient is the expert and I am there to provide the tools to better your mental health.
I specialized in working with patients who have experience trauma and are struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and addiction.
I am a strong believer in providing immediate access to mental health support as well as providing culturally sensitive, inclusive and trauma focused therapy. I aim to use a client centered approach where the patient is the expert and I am there to provide the tools to better your mental health.
(226) 917-4249 View (226) 917-4249
Photo of Kristina Swiderski, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kristina Swiderski
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Let me be your guide to the life you hope to for. Psychology and psychotherapy have captivated me for years, driving my dedication to the mental health field since 2011. Whether through in-person sessions or online, I tailor to meet the specific needs of each person I work with. I specialize in Couples Therapy and am certified in Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy. I also support individuals facing various difficulties, including phobias, social anxiety, panic attacks, health-related anxieties, major and persistent depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, OCD, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, anger, weight loss, suicidal ideation, and spirituality.
Let me be your guide to the life you hope to for. Psychology and psychotherapy have captivated me for years, driving my dedication to the mental health field since 2011. Whether through in-person sessions or online, I tailor to meet the specific needs of each person I work with. I specialize in Couples Therapy and am certified in Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy. I also support individuals facing various difficulties, including phobias, social anxiety, panic attacks, health-related anxieties, major and persistent depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, OCD, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, anger, weight loss, suicidal ideation, and spirituality.
(226) 840-2164 View (226) 840-2164
Photo of Amanda Snary, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Amanda Snary
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I have worked with adults, teens and children with diagnoses, such as: ASD, ADHD, OCD, and more.
Hi there, I'm Amanda! As a therapist, I am passionate about helping children, teens and adults work through life's struggles, and make goals with them that will help them live a life that aligns with their values and beliefs. I work a lot with individuals who are neurodivergent creating an individualized treatment plan with the client to respond to their concerns. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, need support with your OCD or ADHD, have ASD or are simply needing support with your day to day life, I would love to work with you.
I have worked with adults, teens and children with diagnoses, such as: ASD, ADHD, OCD, and more.
Hi there, I'm Amanda! As a therapist, I am passionate about helping children, teens and adults work through life's struggles, and make goals with them that will help them live a life that aligns with their values and beliefs. I work a lot with individuals who are neurodivergent creating an individualized treatment plan with the client to respond to their concerns. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, need support with your OCD or ADHD, have ASD or are simply needing support with your day to day life, I would love to work with you.
(226) 779-7762 View (226) 779-7762
Photo of Kristen Turner, MA, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kristen Turner
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I can help your child or teen with anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem, grief, suicide ideations, trauma, academic challenges, and emotional dysregulation.
Do you feel like your child is a stranger to you? Have you noticed their grades dropping in school or them pulling away from friends? Do you notice your child becoming absorbed in social media and less interested in their extracurriculars? Are they setting high standards for themselves? Does your child get upset and they can’t tell you why? Is your child yelling or crying for long periods of time, and you don’t know what to do? Do you feel like your teen doesn’t talk to you? You are not alone. Children and teens grow up quickly, and these sudden changes can be more than just growing pains.
I can help your child or teen with anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem, grief, suicide ideations, trauma, academic challenges, and emotional dysregulation.
Do you feel like your child is a stranger to you? Have you noticed their grades dropping in school or them pulling away from friends? Do you notice your child becoming absorbed in social media and less interested in their extracurriculars? Are they setting high standards for themselves? Does your child get upset and they can’t tell you why? Is your child yelling or crying for long periods of time, and you don’t know what to do? Do you feel like your teen doesn’t talk to you? You are not alone. Children and teens grow up quickly, and these sudden changes can be more than just growing pains.
(548) 901-4221 View (548) 901-4221
Photo of Paula Cerveny, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Paula Cerveny
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am passionate about helping children and teens thrive in today's complex world and I consider it an honor and a privilege to be invited into a position of trust through therapy or assessment. I provide evidence-based psychological treatments for anxiety, OCD, and depression, as well as a wide range of services to address typical life struggles such as friendships, learning difficulties, attention challenges, changing schools, moving, sibling relationships, and executive functioning.
I am passionate about helping children and teens thrive in today's complex world and I consider it an honor and a privilege to be invited into a position of trust through therapy or assessment. I provide evidence-based psychological treatments for anxiety, OCD, and depression, as well as a wide range of services to address typical life struggles such as friendships, learning difficulties, attention challenges, changing schools, moving, sibling relationships, and executive functioning.
(226) 840-6266 View (226) 840-6266
Photo of Jordan Smith, BaSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jordan Smith
Registered Social Worker, BaSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
With 15 years of experience specializing in adult mental health and addiction, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients as they navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders and addiction.
These days, life can feel overwhelming. On the outside, everything may appear "fine," but inside, you're battling persistent anxiety, exhaustion, and the weight of endless responsibilities. It's not that you don’t understand the importance of life balance, you do, but figuring out how to achieve it all can feel like an impossible task. Perhaps you struggle with people-pleasing, a critical inner voice, or a lack of motivation that makes it hard to prioritize your own needs. You’re aware that something has to change, and that awareness is the first step.
With 15 years of experience specializing in adult mental health and addiction, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients as they navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders and addiction.
These days, life can feel overwhelming. On the outside, everything may appear "fine," but inside, you're battling persistent anxiety, exhaustion, and the weight of endless responsibilities. It's not that you don’t understand the importance of life balance, you do, but figuring out how to achieve it all can feel like an impossible task. Perhaps you struggle with people-pleasing, a critical inner voice, or a lack of motivation that makes it hard to prioritize your own needs. You’re aware that something has to change, and that awareness is the first step.
(226) 917-9434 View (226) 917-9434
Photo of Summer Burnett, RP(Q) , MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Summer Burnett
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q) , MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe in meeting individuals where they are in their lives, honouring their unique experiences, and collaborating with them to foster deeper self-understanding. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and respect for each person’s journey. I have extensive experience working with families, children, youth, and individuals, addressing a range of presenting concerns, including relationship challenges, intimate partner violence, anxiety, depression, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, 2SLGBTQI+ issues, personality disorders, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, ASD, and developmental/speech delays.
I believe in meeting individuals where they are in their lives, honouring their unique experiences, and collaborating with them to foster deeper self-understanding. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and respect for each person’s journey. I have extensive experience working with families, children, youth, and individuals, addressing a range of presenting concerns, including relationship challenges, intimate partner violence, anxiety, depression, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, 2SLGBTQI+ issues, personality disorders, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, ASD, and developmental/speech delays.
(548) 918-5204 View (548) 918-5204

See more therapy options for Guelph

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.