Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counselling in Brentford

Photo of Agnieszka Jacewicz, Psychotherapist in Brentford, England
Agnieszka Jacewicz
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Brentford TW8
Over the years, I have work with clients on short-term and long-term arrangements, dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal crisis, anger, low self-esteem, panic disorders, relationship issues, trauma, questions of spirituality and meaning, such as Who am I?. From my own experience of therapy, insight some times is not enough. Therefore I might ask you to complete certain tasks designed to help you develop more effective skills. This approach often involves homework assignments. I draw on many techniques, including visualisation, dream exploration, drawing, role-play, and the most familiar method: conversation between two people.
Over the years, I have work with clients on short-term and long-term arrangements, dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal crisis, anger, low self-esteem, panic disorders, relationship issues, trauma, questions of spirituality and meaning, such as Who am I?. From my own experience of therapy, insight some times is not enough. Therefore I might ask you to complete certain tasks designed to help you develop more effective skills. This approach often involves homework assignments. I draw on many techniques, including visualisation, dream exploration, drawing, role-play, and the most familiar method: conversation between two people.
01748 902215 View 01748 902215
Photo of Sherry Richmond, Psychotherapist in Brentford, England
Sherry Richmond
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentford TW8
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist (Msc, CTA with distinction) and Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (PG Dip Psych) I work both long term and short term with individuals and couples. People approach therapy for many different reasons. Sometimes it is just to get clear about a past experience or to change a habit. Often I have found that identifying blocks and emotional obstacles that stand in the way of a client living their full potential is the core of the work we do together. I offer a variety of techniques which can assist in removing those obstacles so that you can reach your goals and nurture a loving relationship with oneself
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist (Msc, CTA with distinction) and Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (PG Dip Psych) I work both long term and short term with individuals and couples. People approach therapy for many different reasons. Sometimes it is just to get clear about a past experience or to change a habit. Often I have found that identifying blocks and emotional obstacles that stand in the way of a client living their full potential is the core of the work we do together. I offer a variety of techniques which can assist in removing those obstacles so that you can reach your goals and nurture a loving relationship with oneself
01372 235270 View 01372 235270
Photo of Jack Reardon, Psychotherapist in Brentford, England
Jack Reardon
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Brentford TW8
I offer long-term and short-term psychotherapy and counselling for a wide range of issues. One of the hardest choices can be finding a therapist. I have an Integrative approach to Psychotherapy, this means I integrate an approach that is suitable to you. I have experience with; addiction recovery, anxiety, depression, trauma, compulsive behaviour, relationship difficulties/or lack of relationship, low self-esteem, childhood abuse, dissociation, suicidal thoughts, anger, self-harming/destructive thoughts and behaviour, amongst others.
I offer long-term and short-term psychotherapy and counselling for a wide range of issues. One of the hardest choices can be finding a therapist. I have an Integrative approach to Psychotherapy, this means I integrate an approach that is suitable to you. I have experience with; addiction recovery, anxiety, depression, trauma, compulsive behaviour, relationship difficulties/or lack of relationship, low self-esteem, childhood abuse, dissociation, suicidal thoughts, anger, self-harming/destructive thoughts and behaviour, amongst others.
01748 901307 View 01748 901307
Photo of Emily Mitchell at MindStudio, Psychotherapist in Brentford, England
Emily Mitchell at MindStudio
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Brentford TW8
I offer a professional Psychotherapy, Counselling or Psychosocial Occupational Therapy Service at MindStudio, a contemporary in person and online wellness studio based in Northern Cotswolds. I have been privileged to work with many people who have felt overwhelmed, lost or stuck at times in their life. Working with a therapist can provide a consistent sense of support, as well as short and long-term relief from issues you are facing. I am passionate about my work and strongly believe that therapy can allow you to begin to make sense of overwhelming feelings, thoughts and behaviours.
I offer a professional Psychotherapy, Counselling or Psychosocial Occupational Therapy Service at MindStudio, a contemporary in person and online wellness studio based in Northern Cotswolds. I have been privileged to work with many people who have felt overwhelmed, lost or stuck at times in their life. Working with a therapist can provide a consistent sense of support, as well as short and long-term relief from issues you are facing. I am passionate about my work and strongly believe that therapy can allow you to begin to make sense of overwhelming feelings, thoughts and behaviours.
0121 238 2656 View 0121 238 2656
Photo of Henrik Lynggaard, Psychologist in Brentford, England
Henrik Lynggaard
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brentford TW8
I work as a psychoanalytic psychotherapist and I have consulting rooms in Central London and North London. I have more than 30 years’ experience of working in the NHS as well as in independent practice. In my experience people seek therapy for many different reasons. They may be facing a predicament, be anxious, depressed or confused, or feel stuck in repeating patterns of thoughts and behaviour that have adverse effects on their lives. They may have relationship difficulties or questions about their sexuality; they may be finding it difficult to deal with the loss of a person, a position or an identity.
I work as a psychoanalytic psychotherapist and I have consulting rooms in Central London and North London. I have more than 30 years’ experience of working in the NHS as well as in independent practice. In my experience people seek therapy for many different reasons. They may be facing a predicament, be anxious, depressed or confused, or feel stuck in repeating patterns of thoughts and behaviour that have adverse effects on their lives. They may have relationship difficulties or questions about their sexuality; they may be finding it difficult to deal with the loss of a person, a position or an identity.
020 3984 8911 View 020 3984 8911

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shung Yan (Beatrice) Ng (Kessler), Psychologist in Brentford, England
Shung Yan (Beatrice) Ng (Kessler)
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Richmond TW9
I am a registered clinical psychologist in the UK and Hong Kong, and a Certified Advance Schema Therapist and Supervisor from ISST. I have also been certified as a mindfulness trainer from Canada. I speak English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. I have extensive experience in treating complicated cases such as Trauma, Eating Disorders, PTSD, DID, Personality Disorders, OCD, and Mood Disorders. I am particularly experienced in treating people with pervasively negative life patterns, which applies to both individual and couple therapy.
I am a registered clinical psychologist in the UK and Hong Kong, and a Certified Advance Schema Therapist and Supervisor from ISST. I have also been certified as a mindfulness trainer from Canada. I speak English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. I have extensive experience in treating complicated cases such as Trauma, Eating Disorders, PTSD, DID, Personality Disorders, OCD, and Mood Disorders. I am particularly experienced in treating people with pervasively negative life patterns, which applies to both individual and couple therapy.
01748 902948 View 01748 902948
Photo of Specialist Counselling Psychotherapy Young People, Psychotherapist in Brentford, England
Specialist Counselling Psychotherapy Young People
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW13  (Online Only)
'Helping Young People realise their full potential' and with the pandemic still affecting educational, social and family dynamics, 'Helping Young People adapt positively to change' With over 15 years experience counselling young people in private practice, schools and colleges. I have successfully worked on anxiety prevention, family dynamics, dyspraxia, autism, self harming behaviours, sexuality and gender, exam pressure, bullying, OCD and many more. I consider that, at times, young people need additional emotional support outside of their family and friends network in order that they can achieve their full potential.
'Helping Young People realise their full potential' and with the pandemic still affecting educational, social and family dynamics, 'Helping Young People adapt positively to change' With over 15 years experience counselling young people in private practice, schools and colleges. I have successfully worked on anxiety prevention, family dynamics, dyspraxia, autism, self harming behaviours, sexuality and gender, exam pressure, bullying, OCD and many more. I consider that, at times, young people need additional emotional support outside of their family and friends network in order that they can achieve their full potential.
07565 207955 View 07565 207955
Photo of Anne Rowlands, Counsellor in Brentford, England
Anne Rowlands
Counsellor
Verified Verified
London W13
Welcome. I am a Counsellor and CBT Therapist. You may be going through a specific problem such as Relationship issues, Anxiety, Anger Management, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Depression, Grief and low self-esteem. Whatever you many be going through I will work with you to discover better ways of managing your issues so that you can move forward to a happier and healthier way of life. I am offering you a safe, non judgemental space for you to explore your thoughts feelings and behaviour. My counselling will be tailored for your needs.
Welcome. I am a Counsellor and CBT Therapist. You may be going through a specific problem such as Relationship issues, Anxiety, Anger Management, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Depression, Grief and low self-esteem. Whatever you many be going through I will work with you to discover better ways of managing your issues so that you can move forward to a happier and healthier way of life. I am offering you a safe, non judgemental space for you to explore your thoughts feelings and behaviour. My counselling will be tailored for your needs.
020 3871 6582 View 020 3871 6582
Photo of Dr Marigold Hayes, Psychologist in Brentford, England
Dr Marigold Hayes
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW13
I work with most common mental health difficulties including stress, anxiety, worry, OCD, rumination, depression, low confidence and adjustment to significant life events.
My central aim is to help you better understand your difficulties and maximise your potential to overcome them. I believe that the most effective way to help you is through empowering you to be more able to manage day-to-day, enhance your self-confidence and improve your ability to feel in control of your mental health and wellbeing. My main approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness. I also have an interest in Psychodynamic ideas, which influence my therapeutic style.
I work with most common mental health difficulties including stress, anxiety, worry, OCD, rumination, depression, low confidence and adjustment to significant life events.
My central aim is to help you better understand your difficulties and maximise your potential to overcome them. I believe that the most effective way to help you is through empowering you to be more able to manage day-to-day, enhance your self-confidence and improve your ability to feel in control of your mental health and wellbeing. My main approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness. I also have an interest in Psychodynamic ideas, which influence my therapeutic style.
01748 901260 View 01748 901260
Photo of Peter Klein, Psychotherapist in Brentford, England
Peter Klein
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond TW9
Welcome to my profile page. I am specialized in treating problems such as Stress,Worry, Anxiety, Psychosis, Depression and OCD. I emphasise the use of Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapies as these offer a wealth of scientific evidence backing their effectiveness. When getting to know you, I very much emphasize getting an individual picture of your concerns in order to tailor a treatment program towards you. This entails that you will get to know psychotherapeutic principles and techniques that are adapted specifically towards you. The gained knowledge will aid in helping you address your problems in a direct and pragmatic manner.
Welcome to my profile page. I am specialized in treating problems such as Stress,Worry, Anxiety, Psychosis, Depression and OCD. I emphasise the use of Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapies as these offer a wealth of scientific evidence backing their effectiveness. When getting to know you, I very much emphasize getting an individual picture of your concerns in order to tailor a treatment program towards you. This entails that you will get to know psychotherapeutic principles and techniques that are adapted specifically towards you. The gained knowledge will aid in helping you address your problems in a direct and pragmatic manner.
01748 902453 View 01748 902453
Photo of Dr Mazda Beigi, Psychologist in Brentford, England
Dr Mazda Beigi
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London W5
I work with all age groups, supporting depression, trauma and anxiety (OCD, Phobias etc.
Are you experiencing challenges that have been with you so long it feels hopeless to confront them? Are you feeling down or anxious about circumstances that seem out of your control? Together, we will develop models and draw on theories to explore your specific goals and apply principles that will establish a clear pathway to rediscovering your needs. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment to facilitate thought provoking discussions and help empower you to take back your quality of life. Through integration of techniques, we will open discussions and unravel untapped beliefs to help you transition towards your values.
I work with all age groups, supporting depression, trauma and anxiety (OCD, Phobias etc.
Are you experiencing challenges that have been with you so long it feels hopeless to confront them? Are you feeling down or anxious about circumstances that seem out of your control? Together, we will develop models and draw on theories to explore your specific goals and apply principles that will establish a clear pathway to rediscovering your needs. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment to facilitate thought provoking discussions and help empower you to take back your quality of life. Through integration of techniques, we will open discussions and unravel untapped beliefs to help you transition towards your values.
020 8138 8819 View 020 8138 8819
Photo of Julia Sinclair, Psychologist in Brentford, England
Julia Sinclair
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W4
I see adolescents, adults and older adults with anxiety disorders (phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, GAD), depression (acute, chronic, SAD), personality disorders, bereavement, loss, abuse, neglect, anger and relationship problems.
I know how difficult it is to find a therapist you can trust for help with your emotional and psychological difficulties. Sometimes our suffering is concealed from friends, family or colleagues because we are good at hiding it but deep inside, we are left feeling far from happy, fulfilled or content. At other times our difficulties are more noticeable. I am passionate about helping people live better lives. I help them discover what matters to them, what type of person they want to be and how they would like to behave. Once their values are clarified I help them make sustainable changes towards the things that are important to them.
I see adolescents, adults and older adults with anxiety disorders (phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, GAD), depression (acute, chronic, SAD), personality disorders, bereavement, loss, abuse, neglect, anger and relationship problems.
I know how difficult it is to find a therapist you can trust for help with your emotional and psychological difficulties. Sometimes our suffering is concealed from friends, family or colleagues because we are good at hiding it but deep inside, we are left feeling far from happy, fulfilled or content. At other times our difficulties are more noticeable. I am passionate about helping people live better lives. I help them discover what matters to them, what type of person they want to be and how they would like to behave. Once their values are clarified I help them make sustainable changes towards the things that are important to them.
01748 902305 View 01748 902305
Photo of Tara O'Donoghue- Homebased Talking therapy, Psychotherapist in Brentford, England
Tara O'Donoghue- Homebased Talking therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Isleworth TW7
I specialise in assessing and treating OCD, BDD, health anxiety, PTSD, GAD and a specific phobia of vomiting (Emetophobia).
I am a Senior Psychotherapist, specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) and Compassionate Focused Therapy (CFT). My specialities include assessment and treatment of different Anxiety disorders, such as OCD, BDD, PTSD, Health anxiety, Phobias and Depressive episodes. Previous positons at the Maudsley Hospital include head of the OCD/BDD anxiety unit, working alongside Prof D Veale. Team leader of the national Functional Disorder Outpatient unit specialising in psychosomatic disorders and trauma. I can also offer intensive treatment homevisits.
I specialise in assessing and treating OCD, BDD, health anxiety, PTSD, GAD and a specific phobia of vomiting (Emetophobia).
I am a Senior Psychotherapist, specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) and Compassionate Focused Therapy (CFT). My specialities include assessment and treatment of different Anxiety disorders, such as OCD, BDD, PTSD, Health anxiety, Phobias and Depressive episodes. Previous positons at the Maudsley Hospital include head of the OCD/BDD anxiety unit, working alongside Prof D Veale. Team leader of the national Functional Disorder Outpatient unit specialising in psychosomatic disorders and trauma. I can also offer intensive treatment homevisits.
07492 884493 View 07492 884493
Photo of Dr Lucia Giombini, Psychologist in Brentford, England
Dr Lucia Giombini
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW14
I have dedicated the majority of my career as Clinical Psychologist thus far to helping people suffering from various forms of eating disorder, such anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder or emotional eating. By working with these conditions, I have developed a deeper understanding of the difficulties connected to them, such as different types of anxiety disorders and depression, perfectionism and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. I use different interventions deriving from a wide range of psychological theories, including motivational enhancement therapy, interpersonal therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. Please, for more information visit my website: www.luciagiombini.com
I have dedicated the majority of my career as Clinical Psychologist thus far to helping people suffering from various forms of eating disorder, such anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder or emotional eating. By working with these conditions, I have developed a deeper understanding of the difficulties connected to them, such as different types of anxiety disorders and depression, perfectionism and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. I use different interventions deriving from a wide range of psychological theories, including motivational enhancement therapy, interpersonal therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. Please, for more information visit my website: www.luciagiombini.com
020 3962 0172 View 020 3962 0172
Photo of Dr Iona Naismith, Psychologist in Brentford, England
Dr Iona Naismith
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW13  (Online Only)
I work with people who want to take time to understand themselves and build skills that will support them for a lifetime. In therapy sessions, we’ll work together to understand current problems and how they came about, and find useful tools you can use long-term to solve them. I specialize in anxiety/worry, low mood, self-esteem, relationship issues, OCD, emotional dysregulation, and recovering from trauma. I love helping clients discover how their emotions work and build confidence in themselves and their relationships, to create more fulfilling and balanced lives.
I work with people who want to take time to understand themselves and build skills that will support them for a lifetime. In therapy sessions, we’ll work together to understand current problems and how they came about, and find useful tools you can use long-term to solve them. I specialize in anxiety/worry, low mood, self-esteem, relationship issues, OCD, emotional dysregulation, and recovering from trauma. I love helping clients discover how their emotions work and build confidence in themselves and their relationships, to create more fulfilling and balanced lives.
0131 381 1496 View 0131 381 1496
Photo of Raisa Luther (Licensed Clinical Psychologist), Psychologist in Brentford, England
Raisa Luther (Licensed Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W5  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults having depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, substance misuse and addictions, grief, loss, complex trauma, and life transitions.
Are you feeling trapped or uncertain about your next steps? Are you navigating transitions and feeling overwhelmed? You may be feeling torn between honouring family traditions and staying true to your personal values. If you're seeking to break free from unhealthy attachment patterns and committed to breaking the cycle of generational trauma - I see you! If you consider yourself a 'cycle-breaker' - we'd be a great fit! Reach out to book a FREE 15-minute intro video call.
I specialize in working with adults having depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, substance misuse and addictions, grief, loss, complex trauma, and life transitions.
Are you feeling trapped or uncertain about your next steps? Are you navigating transitions and feeling overwhelmed? You may be feeling torn between honouring family traditions and staying true to your personal values. If you're seeking to break free from unhealthy attachment patterns and committed to breaking the cycle of generational trauma - I see you! If you consider yourself a 'cycle-breaker' - we'd be a great fit! Reach out to book a FREE 15-minute intro video call.
020 3816 3640 View 020 3816 3640
Photo of Dr Lucy Gee, Psychologist in Brentford, England
Dr Lucy Gee
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W4  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical psychologist, with over 12 years experience of working in the NHS and Private Practice. I specialise in working with adults with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, stress, low mood, OCD, emotional dysregulation, low self esteem, trauma and relationship difficulties. I offer a compassionate, collaborative and non-judgemental approach to help you work towards your goals and get the most out of therapy. The first session will be dedicated to assessment where we can develop a shared understanding of your experiences and think about the best approach to take.
I am a Clinical psychologist, with over 12 years experience of working in the NHS and Private Practice. I specialise in working with adults with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, stress, low mood, OCD, emotional dysregulation, low self esteem, trauma and relationship difficulties. I offer a compassionate, collaborative and non-judgemental approach to help you work towards your goals and get the most out of therapy. The first session will be dedicated to assessment where we can develop a shared understanding of your experiences and think about the best approach to take.
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Photo of Erin Hope Thompson (Online Sessions Available), Psychologist in Brentford, England
Erin Hope Thompson (Online Sessions Available)
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Richmond TW9
I offer both in-person and online therapy. I have over ten years’ experience working in the mental health sector, helping people overcome and manage their difficulties, be it in their personal or professional lives. I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, OCD, bereavement, health difficulties, and relationship counselling. I work with both adults and young people and can incorporate a number of different therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, systemic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, schema therapy, and compassion focused therapy.
I offer both in-person and online therapy. I have over ten years’ experience working in the mental health sector, helping people overcome and manage their difficulties, be it in their personal or professional lives. I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, OCD, bereavement, health difficulties, and relationship counselling. I work with both adults and young people and can incorporate a number of different therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, systemic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, schema therapy, and compassion focused therapy.
07403 936134 View 07403 936134
Photo of Nuria Bara-Carril, Psychologist in Brentford, England
Nuria Bara-Carril
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W4
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist working with adults to address mild to severe psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD and Bipolar Affective Disorder. I can also help with concerns around stress, relationships, challenging life events, loss, adjustment to illness, low self-esteem, and unresolved childhood issues. Since becoming a mother, I have developed a specific interest in working with maternal mental health and wellbeing. I frequently support parents as they navigate the new demands, change in role and stresses that come with pregnancy and parenthood.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist working with adults to address mild to severe psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD and Bipolar Affective Disorder. I can also help with concerns around stress, relationships, challenging life events, loss, adjustment to illness, low self-esteem, and unresolved childhood issues. Since becoming a mother, I have developed a specific interest in working with maternal mental health and wellbeing. I frequently support parents as they navigate the new demands, change in role and stresses that come with pregnancy and parenthood.
020 4538 8943 View 020 4538 8943
Photo of Ian Nethersell, Counsellor in Brentford, England
Ian Nethersell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Twickenham TW1
I work with clients on many issues including depression, anxiety, self-worth and anger management and have a special interest in the field of addiction and dependent behaviours and other coping strategies like self-harm, eating disorders and OCD.
I am an integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor and offer a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space for you to discuss how you are feeling, enabling you to identify and work through those things that are troubling you in your life. The sessions and direction of therapy will be led by you. This can be short-term solution focused work, or more open ended where you can explore your life experiences to see how your past is affecting your present. We can also work on dysfunctional and distorted thought patterns, allowing you to discover new ways of being. Together we can identify the tools you need to flourish.
I work with clients on many issues including depression, anxiety, self-worth and anger management and have a special interest in the field of addiction and dependent behaviours and other coping strategies like self-harm, eating disorders and OCD.
I am an integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor and offer a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space for you to discuss how you are feeling, enabling you to identify and work through those things that are troubling you in your life. The sessions and direction of therapy will be led by you. This can be short-term solution focused work, or more open ended where you can explore your life experiences to see how your past is affecting your present. We can also work on dysfunctional and distorted thought patterns, allowing you to discover new ways of being. Together we can identify the tools you need to flourish.
01372 677532 View 01372 677532

See more therapy options for Brentford

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.