Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counselling in Bloomsbury, London

Photo of Tennur Katgi, Psychotherapist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Tennur Katgi
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1B
I specialize in working with PTSD, complex PTSD and anxiety (relationship anxiety, health anxiety, social anxiety) and OCD. My practice might be a good fit for you if you are coming from a dysfunctional family or had a difficult childhood. If you find yourself here, it's likely because things have been difficult lately. Perhaps you struggle to see a path toward improvement. Whether you've faced adversity since childhood or have been grappling with mental health issues for some time, whether you're new to therapy or seeking a more sustainable solution, I'm here to support you on your journey toward recovery.
I specialize in working with PTSD, complex PTSD and anxiety (relationship anxiety, health anxiety, social anxiety) and OCD. My practice might be a good fit for you if you are coming from a dysfunctional family or had a difficult childhood. If you find yourself here, it's likely because things have been difficult lately. Perhaps you struggle to see a path toward improvement. Whether you've faced adversity since childhood or have been grappling with mental health issues for some time, whether you're new to therapy or seeking a more sustainable solution, I'm here to support you on your journey toward recovery.
020 8103 3872 View 020 8103 3872
Photo of Luke Bannister, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Luke Bannister
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, trauma, relationship difficulties, family strain & shame.
I'm a Counselling Psychologist with experience working in the NHS, third sector services and private practice. I will work collaboratively with you to explore your current difficulties and help you understand why you might be struggling. We will explore your past & flesh out how they may contribute to what you are currently experiencing. We will also work to understand the many different aspects of your being including what goes on in your thoughts, mind, emotions and physical body. I will work with you to develop deep insight about yourself as well as speak pragmatically on what needs to change and how to go about doing that.
I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, trauma, relationship difficulties, family strain & shame.
I'm a Counselling Psychologist with experience working in the NHS, third sector services and private practice. I will work collaboratively with you to explore your current difficulties and help you understand why you might be struggling. We will explore your past & flesh out how they may contribute to what you are currently experiencing. We will also work to understand the many different aspects of your being including what goes on in your thoughts, mind, emotions and physical body. I will work with you to develop deep insight about yourself as well as speak pragmatically on what needs to change and how to go about doing that.
020 3835 4805 View 020 3835 4805
Photo of Nicholas Little, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Nicholas Little
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of experience working in the helping professions. I approach my clinical work from a compassionate perspective, mindful of how difficult it can be to speak openly about struggling. I have experience of working with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, bereavement, shame, low self-esteem, trauma, perfectionism, OCD, relationship difficulties, stress, burnout and abuse, amongst other things. I also have expertise working affirmatively with LGBTQ+ communities, gay men, GSRD, diversity & inclusion and intersectionality.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of experience working in the helping professions. I approach my clinical work from a compassionate perspective, mindful of how difficult it can be to speak openly about struggling. I have experience of working with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, bereavement, shame, low self-esteem, trauma, perfectionism, OCD, relationship difficulties, stress, burnout and abuse, amongst other things. I also have expertise working affirmatively with LGBTQ+ communities, gay men, GSRD, diversity & inclusion and intersectionality.
020 3912 7453 View 020 3912 7453
Photo of Hinal Patel, Psychotherapist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Hinal Patel
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
I specialise in working with depression and anxiety, as well as past traumas, body image issues and low self-esteem. I am especially passionate about supporting people struggling with social anxiety, health anxiety, spiralling worries, OCD and panic attacks. I understand how challenging it can be to navigate life's difficult moments on your own and I am here to help you find the practical tools and strategies to overcome your challenges and live a fulfilling life. I will offer a supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, and work towards creating positive change in your life.
I specialise in working with depression and anxiety, as well as past traumas, body image issues and low self-esteem. I am especially passionate about supporting people struggling with social anxiety, health anxiety, spiralling worries, OCD and panic attacks. I understand how challenging it can be to navigate life's difficult moments on your own and I am here to help you find the practical tools and strategies to overcome your challenges and live a fulfilling life. I will offer a supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, and work towards creating positive change in your life.
020 3376 8257 View 020 3376 8257
Photo of Dr Alison Pak, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Dr Alison Pak
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1B
She has experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, conduct disorder, and behavioural difficulties.
Dr Alison Pak completed her BSc (Hons) at University College, London, a Masters in Social and Developmental Psychology at the University of Cambridge, and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at University College, London. She has experience working in various NHS settings and in private practice, and is currently based in a practice in South West London. Dr Pak draws on a range of therapeutic models (e.g., Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy), often including creativity as one of her core competencies.
She has experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, conduct disorder, and behavioural difficulties.
Dr Alison Pak completed her BSc (Hons) at University College, London, a Masters in Social and Developmental Psychology at the University of Cambridge, and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at University College, London. She has experience working in various NHS settings and in private practice, and is currently based in a practice in South West London. Dr Pak draws on a range of therapeutic models (e.g., Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy), often including creativity as one of her core competencies.
020 3835 4513 View 020 3835 4513
Photo of Nazee Akbari, Psychotherapist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Nazee Akbari
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
Other areas of work:Depression,anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, relationship problems, confidence and self esteem, phobia,obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, sexual abuse, bereavement, addiction.
With over 23 years of experience in the mental health field,I am a highly qualified bilingual psychotherapist at the Doctorate level.Throughout my career, I have assisted numerous individuals,couples, and families. I offer therapy in both English and Farsi and hold certification as a clinical supervisor. My therapeutic approach is integrative, customised to suit the individual needs of each client, encompassing various methodologies such as Humanistic,Psychoanalytic,and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.Furthermore,I am a visiting supervisor at Anglia Ruskin University,and I also serve as a guest speaker on BBC Persian & Manoto TV.
Other areas of work:Depression,anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, relationship problems, confidence and self esteem, phobia,obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, sexual abuse, bereavement, addiction.
With over 23 years of experience in the mental health field,I am a highly qualified bilingual psychotherapist at the Doctorate level.Throughout my career, I have assisted numerous individuals,couples, and families. I offer therapy in both English and Farsi and hold certification as a clinical supervisor. My therapeutic approach is integrative, customised to suit the individual needs of each client, encompassing various methodologies such as Humanistic,Psychoanalytic,and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.Furthermore,I am a visiting supervisor at Anglia Ruskin University,and I also serve as a guest speaker on BBC Persian & Manoto TV.
020 4538 7865 View 020 4538 7865
Photo of Dr Erika Annabelle Pratte, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Dr Erika Annabelle Pratte
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
As a psychologist & psychotherapist, my goal is to help you best help yourself. My approach to psychological wellbeing focuses on the whole person & is personalized to you. In addition to psychotherapy, I offer ADHD & autism (ASD) diagnostic assessments. I work with many people of all ages with many concerns, ranging from existential or relationship, confidence, all the way to psychological disorders such as schizophrenia, OCD, & depression. I see clients online, in Central London, and West Hampstead. I may also come to you. Contact me via email or phone to learn more about how we can work together to actualize your goals.
As a psychologist & psychotherapist, my goal is to help you best help yourself. My approach to psychological wellbeing focuses on the whole person & is personalized to you. In addition to psychotherapy, I offer ADHD & autism (ASD) diagnostic assessments. I work with many people of all ages with many concerns, ranging from existential or relationship, confidence, all the way to psychological disorders such as schizophrenia, OCD, & depression. I see clients online, in Central London, and West Hampstead. I may also come to you. Contact me via email or phone to learn more about how we can work together to actualize your goals.
020 4538 3005 View 020 4538 3005
Photo of GreenWood Mentors, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
GreenWood Mentors
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
Dissociation, PTSD, BPD/EUPD, anxiety, depression, OCD, BPD, autism, pain management are special interests.
Dr Fiona Kennedy, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, is Director of GreenWood Mentors www.greenwoodmentors.com. Providing evidence-based therapies proved to work. We are best placed to help those who want to move forward to be their best selves using an integration of evidence-based therapies. We are well-equipped to help people deal with trauma and the effects on their lives today. Our ideal client is motivated to do hard things in order to achieve their goals and willing to try new things. They are interested in developing a new, kinder, relationship with themself and others.
Dissociation, PTSD, BPD/EUPD, anxiety, depression, OCD, BPD, autism, pain management are special interests.
Dr Fiona Kennedy, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, is Director of GreenWood Mentors www.greenwoodmentors.com. Providing evidence-based therapies proved to work. We are best placed to help those who want to move forward to be their best selves using an integration of evidence-based therapies. We are well-equipped to help people deal with trauma and the effects on their lives today. Our ideal client is motivated to do hard things in order to achieve their goals and willing to try new things. They are interested in developing a new, kinder, relationship with themself and others.
01983 217853 View 01983 217853
Photo of Dr Marzio Ascione, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Dr Marzio Ascione
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
Whether you need treatment for anxiety, OCD, stress, depression or another psychological or neuropsychological issue, Dr Ascione will identify and discuss with you a suitable treatment plan.
Dr Marzio Ascione is a Consultant HCPC registered clinical psychologist and Associate Fellow of BPS. Dr Ascione has over 20 years’ experience in clinical neuropsychology and mental health within the NHS and private sector. He has worked as Clinical Psychologist and Researcher for Cambridge University Hospital, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, East London and City Mental Health Trust, West London Mental Health Trust, University of Milan, King’s College London. Dr Ascione sees patients at London and Cambridge clinics. Please contact our office for further information.
Whether you need treatment for anxiety, OCD, stress, depression or another psychological or neuropsychological issue, Dr Ascione will identify and discuss with you a suitable treatment plan.
Dr Marzio Ascione is a Consultant HCPC registered clinical psychologist and Associate Fellow of BPS. Dr Ascione has over 20 years’ experience in clinical neuropsychology and mental health within the NHS and private sector. He has worked as Clinical Psychologist and Researcher for Cambridge University Hospital, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, East London and City Mental Health Trust, West London Mental Health Trust, University of Milan, King’s College London. Dr Ascione sees patients at London and Cambridge clinics. Please contact our office for further information.
020 3974 2199 View 020 3974 2199
Photo of Eoghan Naughton, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Eoghan Naughton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
I have had wide-ranging experience working at primary and secondary care levels in the NHS, working with common mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, panic disorder, OCD, health anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, trauma etc.
My approach aims to provide a safe and trusted space, respectful of each individual's capacity for personal growth. Psychotherapy seeks to help each individual live a more fulfilling life. My aim is to help each person find what works in dealing with the particular circumstances and stresses which cause suffering. I have experience and training in working with complex and longstanding mental health problems such as interpersonal difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, severe depression, trauma and anxiety and currently work in the NHS in secondary care. I have worked as a visiting lecturer at City University.
I have had wide-ranging experience working at primary and secondary care levels in the NHS, working with common mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, panic disorder, OCD, health anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, trauma etc.
My approach aims to provide a safe and trusted space, respectful of each individual's capacity for personal growth. Psychotherapy seeks to help each individual live a more fulfilling life. My aim is to help each person find what works in dealing with the particular circumstances and stresses which cause suffering. I have experience and training in working with complex and longstanding mental health problems such as interpersonal difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, severe depression, trauma and anxiety and currently work in the NHS in secondary care. I have worked as a visiting lecturer at City University.
020 3974 1455 View 020 3974 1455
Photo of CBT and EMDR for stress, anxiety, anger, trauma , Psychotherapist in Bloomsbury, London, England
CBT and EMDR for stress, anxiety, anger, trauma
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1V
As an Accredited EMDR and CBT Therapist, my specialism is helping people rapidly build confidence, resilience, self esteem, skills, strengths and new strategies. I’m passionate about helping people overcome trauma, anxiety, OCD, stress, anger, struggles with relationships, communication, doubt, authenticity, identity, transitions, emotional regulation and wellbeing. My style is practical and encouraging, warm and down to earth. My evidence based approach is firmly rooted in what truly works to help people find lasting freedom. My emphasis is helping you make the changes that’ll make the biggest positive differences to your life.
As an Accredited EMDR and CBT Therapist, my specialism is helping people rapidly build confidence, resilience, self esteem, skills, strengths and new strategies. I’m passionate about helping people overcome trauma, anxiety, OCD, stress, anger, struggles with relationships, communication, doubt, authenticity, identity, transitions, emotional regulation and wellbeing. My style is practical and encouraging, warm and down to earth. My evidence based approach is firmly rooted in what truly works to help people find lasting freedom. My emphasis is helping you make the changes that’ll make the biggest positive differences to your life.
020 3823 6384 View 020 3823 6384
Photo of The Goddard Clinic, Psychotherapist in Bloomsbury, London, England
The Goddard Clinic
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
I have over 15 years experience in providing psychotherapy for problems including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic, phobias and problems related to autism. Although I primarily use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in my work, I also draw on a variety of other therapy approaches so that I can tailor my therapy to your individual needs. I work privately with individuals and couples and I am also experienced at working with children from the age of 13 years.
I have over 15 years experience in providing psychotherapy for problems including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic, phobias and problems related to autism. Although I primarily use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in my work, I also draw on a variety of other therapy approaches so that I can tailor my therapy to your individual needs. I work privately with individuals and couples and I am also experienced at working with children from the age of 13 years.
01732 496755 View 01732 496755
Photo of Therapy Central, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Therapy Central
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
Anna is a passionate, creative and experienced Counselling Psychologist, who supports people with a variety of mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties, those who experience loss of meaning in their lives, or who are seeking a greater sense of fulfilment. Anna works with a Team of qualified psychologists who have been a true inspiration to her.
Anna is a passionate, creative and experienced Counselling Psychologist, who supports people with a variety of mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties, those who experience loss of meaning in their lives, or who are seeking a greater sense of fulfilment. Anna works with a Team of qualified psychologists who have been a true inspiration to her.
01702 904200 View 01702 904200
Photo of Cordy Griffiths, Counsellor in Bloomsbury, London, England
Cordy Griffiths
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
Sometimes life throws up challenges that are too hard to cope with alone and therapy provides a safe and confidential place to work through those challenges. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship problems or recurrent issues from your past, working with a trained therapist can help. There is no set formula for therapy but by talking through your problems in a non-judgemental space, you can gain more clarity on how you're feeling and why. With this new self-knowledge and insight, we can identify new ways of being that are more helpful to you now.
Sometimes life throws up challenges that are too hard to cope with alone and therapy provides a safe and confidential place to work through those challenges. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship problems or recurrent issues from your past, working with a trained therapist can help. There is no set formula for therapy but by talking through your problems in a non-judgemental space, you can gain more clarity on how you're feeling and why. With this new self-knowledge and insight, we can identify new ways of being that are more helpful to you now.
020 3910 1892 View 020 3910 1892
Photo of Neil Hammond, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Neil Hammond
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
I run therapy clinic delivering adapted evidence based therapies for mental health difficulties associated with Autism. I have vast experience of working with adults with neurodevelopmental difficulties. I work using National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines adapted interventions which I’ve been developing as the lead Consultant Clinical Psychologist at the Maudsley Hospital for the last 10 years. I am internationally known for these interventions and is regularly invited to teach and train others.
I run therapy clinic delivering adapted evidence based therapies for mental health difficulties associated with Autism. I have vast experience of working with adults with neurodevelopmental difficulties. I work using National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines adapted interventions which I’ve been developing as the lead Consultant Clinical Psychologist at the Maudsley Hospital for the last 10 years. I am internationally known for these interventions and is regularly invited to teach and train others.
020 3962 1645 View 020 3962 1645
Photo of Tibor Poor, Counsellor in Bloomsbury, London, England
Tibor Poor
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomsbury, London WC1A
Waitlist for new clients
It is likely that you are reading these lines because you are looking for support in getting through a crisis or you wish to explore some long-standing issues with a kind and caring professional. Perhaps you're struggling with problems in your relationship, professional life or trying to overcome destructive habits. You might be feeling stuck and need help to make sense of what's going on.
It is likely that you are reading these lines because you are looking for support in getting through a crisis or you wish to explore some long-standing issues with a kind and caring professional. Perhaps you're struggling with problems in your relationship, professional life or trying to overcome destructive habits. You might be feeling stuck and need help to make sense of what's going on.
020 4538 7376 View 020 4538 7376
Photo of Larisa Mansfield, Psychotherapist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Larisa Mansfield
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1B
I am a Gestalt psychotherapist with an MA in Gestalt Therapy, accredited by the UKCP and registered by the BACP. I offer people a safe, supportive space to explore difficult feelings and to recognise and deal with the hidden patterns in personal relationships. I offer individual psychotherapy, couples and relationship therapy and group work. I can provide both long-term open-ended psychotherapy and brief focused counselling (generally up to 12 sessions).
I am a Gestalt psychotherapist with an MA in Gestalt Therapy, accredited by the UKCP and registered by the BACP. I offer people a safe, supportive space to explore difficult feelings and to recognise and deal with the hidden patterns in personal relationships. I offer individual psychotherapy, couples and relationship therapy and group work. I can provide both long-term open-ended psychotherapy and brief focused counselling (generally up to 12 sessions).
01748 902506 View 01748 902506
Photo of Duncan Roebuck, Psychotherapist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Duncan Roebuck
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1B
I offer a safe, non-judging and confidential therapeutic space where thoughts and feelings can be shared and explored. The therapeutic journey I believe can serve as an opportunity to uncover one’s inner resources and resilience, as well as an opportunity to discover new and more flexible ways of relating to oneself, others and life. My psychotherapy training is in a mindfulness based approach called Core Process Psychotherapy (CPP). This particular approach integrates concepts of mindfulness and awareness with modern psychological perspectives and theories.
I offer a safe, non-judging and confidential therapeutic space where thoughts and feelings can be shared and explored. The therapeutic journey I believe can serve as an opportunity to uncover one’s inner resources and resilience, as well as an opportunity to discover new and more flexible ways of relating to oneself, others and life. My psychotherapy training is in a mindfulness based approach called Core Process Psychotherapy (CPP). This particular approach integrates concepts of mindfulness and awareness with modern psychological perspectives and theories.
01748 902109 View 01748 902109
Photo of Dr Paul Kong, Psychologist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Dr Paul Kong
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1V
Over 20 years of rich clinical experience. Long track record of serving patients with mental health problems in public hospitals in Hong Kong and held the role of Adult Psychiatry Service Team In-charge. Skilled in assessing and treating a wide variety of psychological problems of adolescents and adults, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, addiction problem, eating disorders, couple relationship problem, emotional and stress problems, etc. Appointed as Guest Lecturer of the University of Hong Kong and Honorary Clinical Supervisor of the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Over 20 years of rich clinical experience. Long track record of serving patients with mental health problems in public hospitals in Hong Kong and held the role of Adult Psychiatry Service Team In-charge. Skilled in assessing and treating a wide variety of psychological problems of adolescents and adults, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, addiction problem, eating disorders, couple relationship problem, emotional and stress problems, etc. Appointed as Guest Lecturer of the University of Hong Kong and Honorary Clinical Supervisor of the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
020 4538 3071 View 020 4538 3071
Photo of Helen Bougas, Psychotherapist in Bloomsbury, London, England
Helen Bougas
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bloomsbury, London WC1B  (Online Only)
Every day living can be overwhelming for everyone. Are you feeling that life is getting on top of you? Is there a gap between what you want and what you've got? Are you feeling physically / emotionally tired at your work or in your relationships? Or you want to live a great life and achieve great things? We can work together to make sense of these experiences and how you can use them in order to challenge self-limiting beliefs and make the progress you want. We will work together within the framework of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy.
Every day living can be overwhelming for everyone. Are you feeling that life is getting on top of you? Is there a gap between what you want and what you've got? Are you feeling physically / emotionally tired at your work or in your relationships? Or you want to live a great life and achieve great things? We can work together to make sense of these experiences and how you can use them in order to challenge self-limiting beliefs and make the progress you want. We will work together within the framework of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy.
020 4538 9794 View 020 4538 9794

See more therapy options for Bloomsbury, London

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.