Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Mississauga, ON

Photo of Tara Leigh Smith, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Tara Leigh Smith
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5J
I have extensive experience in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Trichotillomania (i.
I am a registered Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working in hospitals, schools, and private practice settings. I currently work in private practice providing both assessment and treatment services to children and adolescents presenting with a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood and anxiety disorders, selective mutism, tic disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment difficulties, perfectionism, stress management, and self-esteem difficulties. I also offer support to caregivers to develop effective strategies to address their concerns related to their child and help foster positive relationships.
I have extensive experience in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Trichotillomania (i.
I am a registered Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working in hospitals, schools, and private practice settings. I currently work in private practice providing both assessment and treatment services to children and adolescents presenting with a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood and anxiety disorders, selective mutism, tic disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment difficulties, perfectionism, stress management, and self-esteem difficulties. I also offer support to caregivers to develop effective strategies to address their concerns related to their child and help foster positive relationships.
(289) 903-1170 View (289) 903-1170
Photo of Laiba Imran, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Laiba Imran
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder and Addiction.
I am a passionate Psychotherapist registered with College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario. I obtained my Masters Degree in Psychotherapy after completing an undergrad at the University of Toronto and have been actively counselling clients from diverse backgrounds ever since. I am fluent in both English and Urdu which allows me to effectively work with a broad population. Coming from a South Asian background and having been raised in Canada, I am culturally aware of western and eastern values, beliefs, and ideologies. I remain unbiased and culturally sensitive to clients of diverse backgrounds.
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder and Addiction.
I am a passionate Psychotherapist registered with College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario. I obtained my Masters Degree in Psychotherapy after completing an undergrad at the University of Toronto and have been actively counselling clients from diverse backgrounds ever since. I am fluent in both English and Urdu which allows me to effectively work with a broad population. Coming from a South Asian background and having been raised in Canada, I am culturally aware of western and eastern values, beliefs, and ideologies. I remain unbiased and culturally sensitive to clients of diverse backgrounds.
(289) 207-7495 View (289) 207-7495
Photo of Neena Malhotra, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Neena Malhotra
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5L
I also specialize in OCD, utilizing ERP and trauma/PTSD, utilizing CPT, prolonged exposure & IFS .
I am passionate about my role as a therapist. With Psychotherapy, I help clients understand and explore how their unhelpful thoughts, moods and behaviours keep them stuck. I help clients identify patterns of thinking and behaviours that are unhealthy and that keep them experiencing distress in their lives. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which is highly effective in dealing with depression and the broad spectrum of anxiety disorders. Anxiety is usually about future worries often associated with physical symptoms and depression is usually about some past events/regrets & feelings of hopeless and helplessness.
I also specialize in OCD, utilizing ERP and trauma/PTSD, utilizing CPT, prolonged exposure & IFS .
I am passionate about my role as a therapist. With Psychotherapy, I help clients understand and explore how their unhelpful thoughts, moods and behaviours keep them stuck. I help clients identify patterns of thinking and behaviours that are unhealthy and that keep them experiencing distress in their lives. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which is highly effective in dealing with depression and the broad spectrum of anxiety disorders. Anxiety is usually about future worries often associated with physical symptoms and depression is usually about some past events/regrets & feelings of hopeless and helplessness.
(647) 496-5747 View (647) 496-5747
Photo of Rylie Foerster, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Rylie Foerster
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5R
My focus is on helping individuals dealing with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder behavior or tendencies.
I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which can provide you with skills to manage unwanted thoughts. Together, we can explore techniques to confront intrusive thoughts and reframe your brain's response to them.
My focus is on helping individuals dealing with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder behavior or tendencies.
I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which can provide you with skills to manage unwanted thoughts. Together, we can explore techniques to confront intrusive thoughts and reframe your brain's response to them.
(289) 805-6151 View (289) 805-6151
Photo of Eunice Chau, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Eunice Chau
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
As an EMDR trained trauma therapist my area of proficiency is in providing exceptional support to individuals dealing with trauma and PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, stress management, abuse, and relationship issues.
Assisting individuals in discovering their inner strengths and providing them with the tools to achieve their life objectives is a passion of mine. My compassionate nature allows me to create a supportive and empathetic environment for those seeking personal growth and healing.
As an EMDR trained trauma therapist my area of proficiency is in providing exceptional support to individuals dealing with trauma and PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, stress management, abuse, and relationship issues.
Assisting individuals in discovering their inner strengths and providing them with the tools to achieve their life objectives is a passion of mine. My compassionate nature allows me to create a supportive and empathetic environment for those seeking personal growth and healing.
(289) 812-5505 View (289) 812-5505
Photo of Elida Nexha, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elida Nexha
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5R
, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues), with a particular interest in OCD and youth.
Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your day-to-day life? Do you find it difficult to manage the relationships in your life? Do you feel exhausted and stressed by just getting through the day? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious or overwhelmed about navigating their life. Not addressing unhelpful thinking patterns can lead to further distress and disruption in life quality. I believe that there is hope for everyone to move forward in a positive direction while leaving past burdens behind.
, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues), with a particular interest in OCD and youth.
Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your day-to-day life? Do you find it difficult to manage the relationships in your life? Do you feel exhausted and stressed by just getting through the day? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious or overwhelmed about navigating their life. Not addressing unhelpful thinking patterns can lead to further distress and disruption in life quality. I believe that there is hope for everyone to move forward in a positive direction while leaving past burdens behind.
(289) 212-7491 View (289) 212-7491
Photo of Amal Abbasi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc Psy
Amal Abbasi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc Psy
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5B
With a strong foundation in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Therapy, and Mindfulness, I bring extensive experience and specialize in addressing anxiety-related disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobias, and OCD.
I am deeply committed to supporting my clients' journeys towards healing and personal growth. I believe that every individual deserves personalized care that respects their unique cultural background and experiences. By creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment, I enable my clients to explore their thoughts and emotions while working towards their personal goals. I have a Master of Science degree in Psychotherapy from McMaster University and have completed training at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton's Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic.
With a strong foundation in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Therapy, and Mindfulness, I bring extensive experience and specialize in addressing anxiety-related disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobias, and OCD.
I am deeply committed to supporting my clients' journeys towards healing and personal growth. I believe that every individual deserves personalized care that respects their unique cultural background and experiences. By creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment, I enable my clients to explore their thoughts and emotions while working towards their personal goals. I have a Master of Science degree in Psychotherapy from McMaster University and have completed training at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton's Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic.
(289) 302-6710 View (289) 302-6710
Photo of Terence C To - Flowing Mind Therapy , Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Flowing Mind Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N
With experience in both hospital and community settings, I offer treatment for a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, borderline personality, OCD, relationship challenges (whether you're seeking, da.
I collaborate closely with my clients to truly understand their challenges and unique situations. By adopting a compassionate and non-judgmental stance, I create a safe space where they can openly share their stories. My clinical practice is rooted in evidence-based methods and personalized to fit each client’s strengths and needs. My mission is to empower clients to take charge of their lives, equipping them with the skills to align their actions with their values and build resilience against life’s challenges. Through practical tools and techniques, I guide them on a path of meaningful growth and lasting change.
With experience in both hospital and community settings, I offer treatment for a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, borderline personality, OCD, relationship challenges (whether you're seeking, da.
I collaborate closely with my clients to truly understand their challenges and unique situations. By adopting a compassionate and non-judgmental stance, I create a safe space where they can openly share their stories. My clinical practice is rooted in evidence-based methods and personalized to fit each client’s strengths and needs. My mission is to empower clients to take charge of their lives, equipping them with the skills to align their actions with their values and build resilience against life’s challenges. Through practical tools and techniques, I guide them on a path of meaningful growth and lasting change.
(289) 207-6499 View (289) 207-6499
Photo of Rafeya Shami, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Rafeya Shami
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're struggling with symptoms of anxiety, OCD, grief, loss, or trauma, I'd be honoured to work with you.
I use supportive talk therapy combined with evidence-based modalities to help you find relief from the experiences or symptoms that have brought you to therapy. We will come up with a plan together after talking about what you're experiencing, how you'd prefer to address it and what you're hoping to achieve in our time together.
If you're struggling with symptoms of anxiety, OCD, grief, loss, or trauma, I'd be honoured to work with you.
I use supportive talk therapy combined with evidence-based modalities to help you find relief from the experiences or symptoms that have brought you to therapy. We will come up with a plan together after talking about what you're experiencing, how you'd prefer to address it and what you're hoping to achieve in our time together.
(365) 305-0356 View (365) 305-0356
Photo of Ambita Sen, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc
Ambita Sen
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I work with Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), PTSD, Dissociation (Depersonalization, Derealization, and Dissociative Amnesia) and dissociative disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Grief/Loss, Self-Esteem, Depression, attachment injury, and relationship distress.
Feeling sad and unable to figure out why? Constantly worrying about what will happen next? I can work with you to help you deal with the different pressures and stressors in your life. I meet you where you are and walk alongside you to help you reach your full potential. My focus puts you first and builds a strong therapeutic relationship between us through respect, empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard.
I work with Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), PTSD, Dissociation (Depersonalization, Derealization, and Dissociative Amnesia) and dissociative disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Grief/Loss, Self-Esteem, Depression, attachment injury, and relationship distress.
Feeling sad and unable to figure out why? Constantly worrying about what will happen next? I can work with you to help you deal with the different pressures and stressors in your life. I meet you where you are and walk alongside you to help you reach your full potential. My focus puts you first and builds a strong therapeutic relationship between us through respect, empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard.
(289) 216-6936 View (289) 216-6936
Photo of Joanna Szczeskiewicz - Village Centre CBT • Joanna Szczeskiewicz, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Village Centre CBT • Joanna Szczeskiewicz
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
We can also work using specialized CBT protocols to target panic disorder, worry, OCD, PTSD and depression.
Things happen. It is easy to get overwhelmed. Panic attacks, flashbacks, sadness and feelings of uncomfortable tension might become a part of everyday existence. Our attempts at coping help at first, then end up by compounding the pain. Worry, procrastination, excessive defensiveness, addictions or even perfectionism, are all examples of initially helpful coping strategies that backfire over time. We might worry about our problems daily, and yet remain unable to face them. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) can help make sense of things.
We can also work using specialized CBT protocols to target panic disorder, worry, OCD, PTSD and depression.
Things happen. It is easy to get overwhelmed. Panic attacks, flashbacks, sadness and feelings of uncomfortable tension might become a part of everyday existence. Our attempts at coping help at first, then end up by compounding the pain. Worry, procrastination, excessive defensiveness, addictions or even perfectionism, are all examples of initially helpful coping strategies that backfire over time. We might worry about our problems daily, and yet remain unable to face them. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) can help make sense of things.
(647) 360-6223 View (647) 360-6223
Photo of Dr. Tajinder Uppal Dhariwal, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Tajinder Uppal Dhariwal
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
She has over a decade of experience in supporting OCD, anxiety, low mood, anger, trauma, perfectionism, procrastination, suicidality, school, ADHD, friendships, and behaviour.
Dr. Uppal Dhariwal provides personalized strengths-based treatment. She has developed programs, conducted research and provided treatment using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT). She has extensive experience providing evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
She has over a decade of experience in supporting OCD, anxiety, low mood, anger, trauma, perfectionism, procrastination, suicidality, school, ADHD, friendships, and behaviour.
Dr. Uppal Dhariwal provides personalized strengths-based treatment. She has developed programs, conducted research and provided treatment using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT). She has extensive experience providing evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
(905) 364-8604 View (905) 364-8604
Photo of Colleen Collins, Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, MA, RP, CCC
Colleen Collins
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by ADHD, OCD, or chronic pain? As a competitive athlete or high achiever, do you struggle with perfectionism, performance anxiety, or staying focused under pressure? I specialize in working with individuals managing ADHD, OCD, and Chronic Pain/Neuroplastic Pain.
With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, I help clients build strategies that improve focus, reduce anxiety, and create sustainable habits for success—whether in daily life, sports, or pain management. My goal is to help you feel more in control, reduce distress, and achieve personal growth.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by ADHD, OCD, or chronic pain? As a competitive athlete or high achiever, do you struggle with perfectionism, performance anxiety, or staying focused under pressure? I specialize in working with individuals managing ADHD, OCD, and Chronic Pain/Neuroplastic Pain.
With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, I help clients build strategies that improve focus, reduce anxiety, and create sustainable habits for success—whether in daily life, sports, or pain management. My goal is to help you feel more in control, reduce distress, and achieve personal growth.
(289) 276-5801 View (289) 276-5801
Photo of Dr. Bruno Gunther, Psychologist, PhD, C Psyc
Dr. Bruno Gunther
Psychologist, PhD, C Psyc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping adults with anxiety (ex: panic attacks, social anxiety, phobias), ADHD, OCD, depression, self-esteem struggles and relationship issues, as well as a range of other difficulties.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with stress and low mood, or finding it hard to maintain healthy relationships? Perhaps you're dealing with constant worry or having difficulties managing symptoms of ADHD in your daily life. Rest assured, you're not alone in facing these difficulties. My expertise lies in helping individuals navigate through these challenges to regain a sense of control and fulfillment. I strive to create an environment where you can discuss difficult topics while feeling safe, understood, and cared for. I will work closely with you to develop practical, effective solutions tailored to your needs.
I specialize in helping adults with anxiety (ex: panic attacks, social anxiety, phobias), ADHD, OCD, depression, self-esteem struggles and relationship issues, as well as a range of other difficulties.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with stress and low mood, or finding it hard to maintain healthy relationships? Perhaps you're dealing with constant worry or having difficulties managing symptoms of ADHD in your daily life. Rest assured, you're not alone in facing these difficulties. My expertise lies in helping individuals navigate through these challenges to regain a sense of control and fulfillment. I strive to create an environment where you can discuss difficult topics while feeling safe, understood, and cared for. I will work closely with you to develop practical, effective solutions tailored to your needs.
(343) 321-9762 View (343) 321-9762
Lance Hawley
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Online Only
depression, panic, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder) as well as " OCD spectrum" disorders (e.
I would appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with you to better understand the difficulties that you are experiencing, and help you to develop a realistic and achievable treatment plan that fits your needs. I use a "skills based" approach, supporting your ability to manage difficult situations and cope more effectively.
depression, panic, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder) as well as " OCD spectrum" disorders (e.
I would appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with you to better understand the difficulties that you are experiencing, and help you to develop a realistic and achievable treatment plan that fits your needs. I use a "skills based" approach, supporting your ability to manage difficult situations and cope more effectively.
(437) 747-7240 View (437) 747-7240
Photo of Simran Chahal, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Simran Chahal
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I also have robust experience helping manage anxiety, especially when it presents similarly to OCD.
Using an attachment and trauma-informed lens, we will first build a space of feeling “safe enough” together, to help your body come back to feeling safe and confident inside. To build that safety and security, we will draw on pieces from multiple therapy models, including relational and somatic approaches, and cognitive modalities including DBT, ACT and CBT.
I also have robust experience helping manage anxiety, especially when it presents similarly to OCD.
Using an attachment and trauma-informed lens, we will first build a space of feeling “safe enough” together, to help your body come back to feeling safe and confident inside. To build that safety and security, we will draw on pieces from multiple therapy models, including relational and somatic approaches, and cognitive modalities including DBT, ACT and CBT.
(437) 747-7927 View (437) 747-7927
Photo of Sandra Sagrati - Toronto West Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Toronto West Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have been working in mental health for over 20 years, specifically in the areas of depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and eating disorders.
My clinical and research experience includes working in the CBT Unit and Neurochemical Imaging in the Mood Disorders at the CAMH. My training included the Anxiety Treatment and Research Centre and Mood Disorders Program at St. Joseph Healthcare, and the Eating Disorders Day Treatment Program at the University Health Network.
I have been working in mental health for over 20 years, specifically in the areas of depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and eating disorders.
My clinical and research experience includes working in the CBT Unit and Neurochemical Imaging in the Mood Disorders at the CAMH. My training included the Anxiety Treatment and Research Centre and Mood Disorders Program at St. Joseph Healthcare, and the Eating Disorders Day Treatment Program at the University Health Network.
(289) 301-8039 View (289) 301-8039
Photo of Dr. Amri Sabharwal, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Amri Sabharwal
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and offer short- and long-term psychotherapy for individuals coping with anxiety, OCD, trauma, interpersonal problems, depression, and many other issues.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), along with elements of other evidence-based treatments like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). Evidence-based treatments are those that have been shown to be the most effective through rigorous scientific research.
I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and offer short- and long-term psychotherapy for individuals coping with anxiety, OCD, trauma, interpersonal problems, depression, and many other issues.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), along with elements of other evidence-based treatments like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). Evidence-based treatments are those that have been shown to be the most effective through rigorous scientific research.
(647) 559-3460 View (647) 559-3460
Photo of Joshua Cross, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Joshua Cross
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm Josh! I'm here to support you through many issues such as obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), Anxiety, LGBTQ issues, Phobias, Health Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD / ADHD), Depression, Grief, and issues related to Gender, Identity, and Sexuality among others.
If you’re here, that means you’ve already taken the first step toward a better tomorrow! You may be dealing with some of the issues I mentioned, or maybe you’re looking for support through major life changes. I am here to help you identify and achieve your goals, so you can finally breathe a sigh of relief.
Welcome! I'm Josh! I'm here to support you through many issues such as obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), Anxiety, LGBTQ issues, Phobias, Health Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD / ADHD), Depression, Grief, and issues related to Gender, Identity, and Sexuality among others.
If you’re here, that means you’ve already taken the first step toward a better tomorrow! You may be dealing with some of the issues I mentioned, or maybe you’re looking for support through major life changes. I am here to help you identify and achieve your goals, so you can finally breathe a sigh of relief.
(289) 797-7387 View (289) 797-7387
Photo of Alyssa Humenny - Alyssa- London Trauma Therapy, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Alyssa- London Trauma Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Maybe you’ve experienced trauma that still haunts you, or your OCD makes it feel like you are trapped in your own head.
Whether it’s managing the racing thoughts, healing from trauma, or finally finding relief from the anxiety that keeps you stuck, I’ll help you build the tools to take back control of your life. Therapy isn’t just about surviving—it's about finding a way to thrive. Together, we’ll work toward helping you feel grounded, calm, and confident in yourself.
Maybe you’ve experienced trauma that still haunts you, or your OCD makes it feel like you are trapped in your own head.
Whether it’s managing the racing thoughts, healing from trauma, or finally finding relief from the anxiety that keeps you stuck, I’ll help you build the tools to take back control of your life. Therapy isn’t just about surviving—it's about finding a way to thrive. Together, we’ll work toward helping you feel grounded, calm, and confident in yourself.
(226) 212-7376 View (226) 212-7376
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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.