Photo of Dr Sinem Tekes (Clinpsych Cbt Therapist), Psychologist in London, England
Dr Sinem Tekes (Clinpsych Cbt Therapist)
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE8  (Online Only)
My main specialism involves delivering evidence-based CBT to a range of difficulties including depression, general anxiety, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress, OCD, panic, health anxiety and phobias including emetophobia.
Sometimes our life experiences can trigger feelings of low mood and anxiety, and you may wish to see how therapy can help you. As a clinical psychologist and CBT therapist with over 10 years working in the NHS, I will work collaboratively with you to gain an understanding of how your difficulties started, what is keeping them going, and how you can overcome them. I believe that working together and forming a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to gaining positive outcomes and reaching therapy goals. I am friendly, warm and laid back and endeavour to help you feel supported throughout your therapy journey.
My main specialism involves delivering evidence-based CBT to a range of difficulties including depression, general anxiety, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress, OCD, panic, health anxiety and phobias including emetophobia.
Sometimes our life experiences can trigger feelings of low mood and anxiety, and you may wish to see how therapy can help you. As a clinical psychologist and CBT therapist with over 10 years working in the NHS, I will work collaboratively with you to gain an understanding of how your difficulties started, what is keeping them going, and how you can overcome them. I believe that working together and forming a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to gaining positive outcomes and reaching therapy goals. I am friendly, warm and laid back and endeavour to help you feel supported throughout your therapy journey.
01423 648865 View 01423 648865
Photo of Amir Oren, Psychologist in London, England
Amir Oren
Psychologist, MA, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London NW4
I have extensive experience working with both children and adults coping with different psychological symptoms and medical conditions. Over the years I have worked extensively with people with problems such as depression and anxiety (e.g. stress, OCD, specific phobias, health worries, sleep problems, skin picking and trichotillomania). I also have experience in working with children with ADHD and providing consultations to parents on different parenting issues (e.g. behavioura
I have extensive experience working with both children and adults coping with different psychological symptoms and medical conditions. Over the years I have worked extensively with people with problems such as depression and anxiety (e.g. stress, OCD, specific phobias, health worries, sleep problems, skin picking and trichotillomania). I also have experience in working with children with ADHD and providing consultations to parents on different parenting issues (e.g. behavioura
07446 870934 View 07446 870934
Photo of Liz White, Psychologist in London, England
Liz White
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W1G
I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, OCD (I carried out doctoral research in this area), and individuals experiencing high self criticism/low self esteem and appearance concerns.
I am a highly qualified and experienced Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I have spent 16 years working in NHS mental health services, and now focus on my private practice full time. With a high level of expertise, I am able to create a bespoke therapeutic experience that helps clients move towards their goals. I focus on providing high quality, evidence based therapy that enables clients to feel empowered and understood, enabling them to learn the skills needed to make positive and long lasting changes in their lives.
I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, OCD (I carried out doctoral research in this area), and individuals experiencing high self criticism/low self esteem and appearance concerns.
I am a highly qualified and experienced Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I have spent 16 years working in NHS mental health services, and now focus on my private practice full time. With a high level of expertise, I am able to create a bespoke therapeutic experience that helps clients move towards their goals. I focus on providing high quality, evidence based therapy that enables clients to feel empowered and understood, enabling them to learn the skills needed to make positive and long lasting changes in their lives.
01992 351093 View 01992 351093
Photo of Guy Klein, Psychotherapist in London, England
Guy Klein
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London NW6
I am an experienced CBT and EMDR therapist, specializing in treating OCD, as well as Generalised anxiety and anxiety attacks, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and low self-esteem. Other difficulties I treat include Health anxiety, Social anxiety, BDD, and phobias. Full recovery, reliable improvement and reclaiming control over your life are all achievable goals with CBT and EMDR, through a paced process, tailored to your personal needs.
I am an experienced CBT and EMDR therapist, specializing in treating OCD, as well as Generalised anxiety and anxiety attacks, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and low self-esteem. Other difficulties I treat include Health anxiety, Social anxiety, BDD, and phobias. Full recovery, reliable improvement and reclaiming control over your life are all achievable goals with CBT and EMDR, through a paced process, tailored to your personal needs.
020 4538 5157 View 020 4538 5157
Photo of Emily Gardner Therapy, Psychotherapist in London, England
Emily Gardner Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW2  (Online Only)
Anxiety can take many different forms: overwhelming worry, distressing intrusive thoughts/images, an excessive need to be "absolutely certain", obsessive doubts and self-criticism, to name just a few. As a result, you may use compulsive or other problematic behaviours, or even avoid certain situations all together, in order to cope. But now these behaviours have become the problem, and they’re starting to affect your life. It can be exhausting. The good news is, however your anxiety presents itself, I can help you take back control and reclaim your life from anxiety. To learn more about me, visit my website emilygardner.co.uk
Anxiety can take many different forms: overwhelming worry, distressing intrusive thoughts/images, an excessive need to be "absolutely certain", obsessive doubts and self-criticism, to name just a few. As a result, you may use compulsive or other problematic behaviours, or even avoid certain situations all together, in order to cope. But now these behaviours have become the problem, and they’re starting to affect your life. It can be exhausting. The good news is, however your anxiety presents itself, I can help you take back control and reclaim your life from anxiety. To learn more about me, visit my website emilygardner.co.uk
020 3002 6611 View 020 3002 6611
Photo of Dr Oona McEwan, Psychologist in London, England
Dr Oona McEwan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W1W  (Online Only)
Whether you are having momentary difficulties or are facing long-standing challenges, starting therapy can feel daunting. My approach focuses on creating a safe and supportive space to explore a range of difficulties including low mood and depression, OCD, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, eating and sleeping difficulties, as well as challenges within relationships. Other interests/specialities include racial and intergenerational trauma, difficulties associated with becoming and being a parent (including the perinatal period), as well as work-related challenges. I am now offering ADHD assessment to adults.
Whether you are having momentary difficulties or are facing long-standing challenges, starting therapy can feel daunting. My approach focuses on creating a safe and supportive space to explore a range of difficulties including low mood and depression, OCD, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, eating and sleeping difficulties, as well as challenges within relationships. Other interests/specialities include racial and intergenerational trauma, difficulties associated with becoming and being a parent (including the perinatal period), as well as work-related challenges. I am now offering ADHD assessment to adults.
020 3835 2459 View 020 3835 2459
Photo of Dr Marigold Hayes, Psychologist in London, 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 Christopher David Harris, Psychologist in London, England
Christopher David Harris
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW2  (Online Only)
I specialise working with trauma (PTSD & C-PTSD), anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, gender and sexuality issues, addiction, relationship issues, neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, learning difficulties), personality disorder, sleep and stress management.
I have a friendly and down to earth approach, focused on developing a positive and trusting relationship with you. Our therapeutic relationship is paramount to working effectively and I strive to provide compassionate and holistic care.
I specialise working with trauma (PTSD & C-PTSD), anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, gender and sexuality issues, addiction, relationship issues, neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, learning difficulties), personality disorder, sleep and stress management.
I have a friendly and down to earth approach, focused on developing a positive and trusting relationship with you. Our therapeutic relationship is paramount to working effectively and I strive to provide compassionate and holistic care.
020 3376 8023 View 020 3376 8023
Photo of Andrea Breninek C B T Online, Psychologist in London, England
Andrea Breninek C B T Online
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London NW3
My special interests are in the field of Depression, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Postnatal Depression , Stress and Chronic Illness.
"Depression is the common cold of psychopathology and has touched the lives of us all" (Dr Martin Seligman). In my 20 year experience as a CBT therapist I have learned that Seligman is right - everybody will experience at one point in their life depression, anxiety or another form of mental health problems. Some of us will manage on their own, some of us will need help. Seeking help for stress and mental health problems should not have any stigma attached to it - it is one way of dealing with the impact of living in an imperfect world.
My special interests are in the field of Depression, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Postnatal Depression , Stress and Chronic Illness.
"Depression is the common cold of psychopathology and has touched the lives of us all" (Dr Martin Seligman). In my 20 year experience as a CBT therapist I have learned that Seligman is right - everybody will experience at one point in their life depression, anxiety or another form of mental health problems. Some of us will manage on their own, some of us will need help. Seeking help for stress and mental health problems should not have any stigma attached to it - it is one way of dealing with the impact of living in an imperfect world.
020 3835 4681 View 020 3835 4681
Photo of Bridget Barnes Cbt Therapy, Psychotherapist in London, England
Bridget Barnes Cbt Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
London E17  (Online Only)
I help my clients LET GO of perfectionism, worry, social anxiety, panic attacks & OCD (using ERP).
Hello I’m Bridget, a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Anxiety Disorder specialist. I have extensive experience helping my clients view their anxious thoughts, feelings and behaviours in a more rational, less threatening way. Bringing in a new perspective enables a new way of relating to yourself, or others. - -> Recent client feedback - “Bridget was really wonderful. I have left my sessions feeling empowered and confident that I have everything I need to tackle my OCD and challenging situations that may arise in future. I really can not thank her enough and I'm excited that I have various exercises I can use to navigate my OCD."
I help my clients LET GO of perfectionism, worry, social anxiety, panic attacks & OCD (using ERP).
Hello I’m Bridget, a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Anxiety Disorder specialist. I have extensive experience helping my clients view their anxious thoughts, feelings and behaviours in a more rational, less threatening way. Bringing in a new perspective enables a new way of relating to yourself, or others. - -> Recent client feedback - “Bridget was really wonderful. I have left my sessions feeling empowered and confident that I have everything I need to tackle my OCD and challenging situations that may arise in future. I really can not thank her enough and I'm excited that I have various exercises I can use to navigate my OCD."
020 3835 5416 View 020 3835 5416
Photo of Jo Rosenberg, Psychologist in London, England
Jo Rosenberg
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
I work with children, adolescents, families, younger and older adults with a range of issues including low mood/ depression, anxiety, OCD, family problems, relationship issues, work related problems, families with autism and ADHD, and stress.
I offer therapy to those who may be experiencing emotional difficulties and who need some time and space to work through these challenges in order to find a way forward. I work with parents, families, adolescents, children and young adults. My experience includes most recently working at Barnet CAMHS, together with adult NHS settings, schools and organisations. My work is informed through the use of CBT, psychodynamic and person-centred therapy. Working collaboratively, I offer a warm, empathic approach in order to develop goals and strategies that may be most beneficial and effective to suit your needs.
I work with children, adolescents, families, younger and older adults with a range of issues including low mood/ depression, anxiety, OCD, family problems, relationship issues, work related problems, families with autism and ADHD, and stress.
I offer therapy to those who may be experiencing emotional difficulties and who need some time and space to work through these challenges in order to find a way forward. I work with parents, families, adolescents, children and young adults. My experience includes most recently working at Barnet CAMHS, together with adult NHS settings, schools and organisations. My work is informed through the use of CBT, psychodynamic and person-centred therapy. Working collaboratively, I offer a warm, empathic approach in order to develop goals and strategies that may be most beneficial and effective to suit your needs.
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Photo of Dr Aisan Ghaemian, Psychotherapist in London, England
Dr Aisan Ghaemian
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London W1G
I am specialized in psychological treatments for presenting problems such as:Depression• Anxiety• Aggression•Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)• Anxiety Disorders such as OCD •General Anxiety Disorder• Health Anxiety• Social Phobia• Panic & Agoraphobia, Body Dysmorphic Disorder • Eating problem•Addictions •Stress & Resilience• Sleep disorder.
I am a Chartered Psychologist and an accredited Cognitive Behavior Therapist. I have 10 years of clinical experience in the adult mental health services, including the primary care within the National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom and the private sector. I provide online therapy and face to face psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) within the long-term and short-term capacity. In addition, therapy could be provided in the following languages: Turkish, Azerbaijani and Farsi.
I am specialized in psychological treatments for presenting problems such as:Depression• Anxiety• Aggression•Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)• Anxiety Disorders such as OCD •General Anxiety Disorder• Health Anxiety• Social Phobia• Panic & Agoraphobia, Body Dysmorphic Disorder • Eating problem•Addictions •Stress & Resilience• Sleep disorder.
I am a Chartered Psychologist and an accredited Cognitive Behavior Therapist. I have 10 years of clinical experience in the adult mental health services, including the primary care within the National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom and the private sector. I provide online therapy and face to face psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) within the long-term and short-term capacity. In addition, therapy could be provided in the following languages: Turkish, Azerbaijani and Farsi.
0800 669 6281 View 0800 669 6281
Photo of Tehani Benjamin, Psychologist in London, England
Tehani Benjamin
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE1  (Online Only)
I have lived experiences and specialist training in OCD.
At the heart of my work, I strive to create a warm and compassionate space for clients from all walks of life. I work with clients presenting with various challenges including relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, anxiety and low mood. I also have experience working with complex mental health and co-morbid difficulties, including trauma and childhood abuse. Whether your issue feels vague or specific, therapy can help you understand how the past informs current patterns, develop coping skills to process difficult feelings, and nurture the internal strengths and resources that we all hold.
I have lived experiences and specialist training in OCD.
At the heart of my work, I strive to create a warm and compassionate space for clients from all walks of life. I work with clients presenting with various challenges including relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, anxiety and low mood. I also have experience working with complex mental health and co-morbid difficulties, including trauma and childhood abuse. Whether your issue feels vague or specific, therapy can help you understand how the past informs current patterns, develop coping skills to process difficult feelings, and nurture the internal strengths and resources that we all hold.
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Photo of Tennur Katgi, Psychotherapist in London, England
Tennur Katgi
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London N1
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 Oliver Fallon, Counsellor in London, England
Oliver Fallon
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E2
Specialist OCD and Eating Disorder Therapy. If you or someone you love suffers from an eating disorder or severe OCD it can be incredibly distressing and serious. Talking to a specialist who understands the complex issues around anorexia and bulimia and OCD is your first step towards recovery. You can be free from your obsessions and compulsions and problems with food, body image and exercise. The first step is simply to talk about what's going on with an empathetic and understanding person. You don't have to be in crisis to have therapy, you just have to want to change things for the better.
Specialist OCD and Eating Disorder Therapy. If you or someone you love suffers from an eating disorder or severe OCD it can be incredibly distressing and serious. Talking to a specialist who understands the complex issues around anorexia and bulimia and OCD is your first step towards recovery. You can be free from your obsessions and compulsions and problems with food, body image and exercise. The first step is simply to talk about what's going on with an empathetic and understanding person. You don't have to be in crisis to have therapy, you just have to want to change things for the better.
020 3816 1637 View 020 3816 1637
Photo of Shireen Sultana, Psychotherapist in London, England
Shireen Sultana
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London EC4R
I am a CBT Therapist with over 15 years experience of working in mental health services within NHS. I have been currently working as a senior therapist within an NHS service which involves providing supervision to other clinicians and providing specialist assessment and treatment to individuals experiencing depression and anxiety disorders including PTSD, OCD & Long term health conditions. Although my primary modality of training is CBT, I am also trained in EMDR, IPT (Interpersonal Psychotherapy). I work with individual aged over 16.
I am a CBT Therapist with over 15 years experience of working in mental health services within NHS. I have been currently working as a senior therapist within an NHS service which involves providing supervision to other clinicians and providing specialist assessment and treatment to individuals experiencing depression and anxiety disorders including PTSD, OCD & Long term health conditions. Although my primary modality of training is CBT, I am also trained in EMDR, IPT (Interpersonal Psychotherapy). I work with individual aged over 16.
07588 683393 View 07588 683393
Photo of Jacqueline England, Psychotherapist in London, England
Jacqueline England
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London N11
I am an experienced, BABCP-accred cognitive & behavioural psychotherapist and a BANT- accred nutritionist. Clients have CBT for a variety or reasons: it could be to help a specific mental health problem such as anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, an eating disorder or addiction. Others are going through major life events such as divorce or bereavement, and may be suffering from stress, insomnia and guilt. Perhaps you are not coping with relationship issues, or are finding your life is badly effected by anger issues, perfectionism or low self-esteem. CBT is evidence-based, effective and the therapy of choice for the NHS, NICE and WHO.
I am an experienced, BABCP-accred cognitive & behavioural psychotherapist and a BANT- accred nutritionist. Clients have CBT for a variety or reasons: it could be to help a specific mental health problem such as anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, an eating disorder or addiction. Others are going through major life events such as divorce or bereavement, and may be suffering from stress, insomnia and guilt. Perhaps you are not coping with relationship issues, or are finding your life is badly effected by anger issues, perfectionism or low self-esteem. CBT is evidence-based, effective and the therapy of choice for the NHS, NICE and WHO.
020 3095 2952 View 020 3095 2952
Photo of Farah Mitha, Psychologist in London, England
Farah Mitha
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London EC2M
Farah has over 13 years clinical expereince of working both in the NHS and private sector, providing evidence based psychological treatment and guidance tailoring her approach to the individual clients needs. These may be short term goals, that lend themselves to briefer therapy, or longer-term goals leading to more in-depth exploration of longer standing issues. Her clinical expereince include a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties from mild depression and anxiety, to complex trauma, with a special interest in OCD. She is able to offer specialised trauma treatment for PTSD in the form of EMDR.
Farah has over 13 years clinical expereince of working both in the NHS and private sector, providing evidence based psychological treatment and guidance tailoring her approach to the individual clients needs. These may be short term goals, that lend themselves to briefer therapy, or longer-term goals leading to more in-depth exploration of longer standing issues. Her clinical expereince include a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties from mild depression and anxiety, to complex trauma, with a special interest in OCD. She is able to offer specialised trauma treatment for PTSD in the form of EMDR.
01702 967132 View 01702 967132
Photo of Dr Constantina Markides, Psychologist in London, England
Dr Constantina Markides
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N2
Dr Constantina Markides is a Clinical Psychologist with experience working with adults and children with a range of mental health difficulties, such as severe OCD, low self-esteem, low mood and anxiety and body image concerns. She particularly enjoys working with those struggling with OCD, and has developed and delivered individual as well as group interventions within the NHS to offer evidence based therapies around this. Regardless of the presenting difficulty, Dr Markides hopes to support her clients not only to free themselves from their symptoms, but to connect to their values and live their life doing what matters to them.
Dr Constantina Markides is a Clinical Psychologist with experience working with adults and children with a range of mental health difficulties, such as severe OCD, low self-esteem, low mood and anxiety and body image concerns. She particularly enjoys working with those struggling with OCD, and has developed and delivered individual as well as group interventions within the NHS to offer evidence based therapies around this. Regardless of the presenting difficulty, Dr Markides hopes to support her clients not only to free themselves from their symptoms, but to connect to their values and live their life doing what matters to them.
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Photo of Peter Klein, Psychotherapist in London, England
Peter Klein
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW11
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

See more therapy options for 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.