Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists in Elbert County, CO

Photo of Clarisa Hernandez-Koogle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Clarisa Hernandez-Koogle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Her expertise extends to the treatment of bipolar disorder, mood-related disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), providing patients with the tools and strategies they need to manage their conditions effectively.
Clarisa Hernandez-Koogle is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is dedicated to helping patients define and live their best lives by providing empathetic, non-judgmental, and patient-centered mental health care. Serving the communities in Colorado, she tailors her assessments and treatments to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that every patient receives the optimal care they deserve. Specializing in substance abuse and medication management, Clarisa offers comprehensive support to those struggling with addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Her expertise extends to the treatment of bipolar disorder, mood-related disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), providing patients with the tools and strategies they need to manage their conditions effectively.
Clarisa Hernandez-Koogle is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is dedicated to helping patients define and live their best lives by providing empathetic, non-judgmental, and patient-centered mental health care. Serving the communities in Colorado, she tailors her assessments and treatments to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that every patient receives the optimal care they deserve. Specializing in substance abuse and medication management, Clarisa offers comprehensive support to those struggling with addiction, anxiety, and depression.
(720) 734-7710 View (720) 734-7710
Photo of Meagan Holland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Meagan Holland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I can treat a variety of mental illnesses, including ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and many many more!
My journey began at Denver College of Nursing, where I earned my BSN. Eager to dive into the world of psychiatry, I spent over 6 years as a Mental Health Registered Nurse. Those years were invaluable, giving me experience in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, detox, and crisis care. Mental health has always held a special place in my heart. Naturally, I pursued my Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Regis College. My commitment to learning doesn't stop there – I'm constantly seeking new ways to expand my knowledge and better serve my patients.
I can treat a variety of mental illnesses, including ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and many many more!
My journey began at Denver College of Nursing, where I earned my BSN. Eager to dive into the world of psychiatry, I spent over 6 years as a Mental Health Registered Nurse. Those years were invaluable, giving me experience in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, detox, and crisis care. Mental health has always held a special place in my heart. Naturally, I pursued my Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Regis College. My commitment to learning doesn't stop there – I'm constantly seeking new ways to expand my knowledge and better serve my patients.
(720) 307-3820 View (720) 307-3820
Photo of Vanda VanBibber - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(303) 590-3395 View (303) 590-3395
Photo of Tracy Tyler - Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Accepting New Patients for medication management of adult Colorado residents! Immediate Availability! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management of depression, ADHD, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health conditions. Please click on the “website” button to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
(720) 619-2241 View (720) 619-2241

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Cheryl Dasler, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Cheryl Dasler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Her extensive experience also includes treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and OCD.
Dr. Cheryl Dasler is a double board certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Following completion of her training, she spent the next 10 years fulfilling her passion for indigent care of children, working in a community mental health center. She went on to complete additional training in Functional Medicine, with the goal of offering patients greater insight into the physical factors contributing to their symptoms. She has also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and encourages mindfulness as a healing technique along with medication management.
Her extensive experience also includes treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and OCD.
Dr. Cheryl Dasler is a double board certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Following completion of her training, she spent the next 10 years fulfilling her passion for indigent care of children, working in a community mental health center. She went on to complete additional training in Functional Medicine, with the goal of offering patients greater insight into the physical factors contributing to their symptoms. She has also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and encourages mindfulness as a healing technique along with medication management.
(720) 637-2308 View (720) 637-2308
Photo of Loretta Torres, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP-PMH
Loretta Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP-PMH
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
She is also highly skilled in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD , helping patients reduce distress and develop healthier coping strategies.
Loretta Torres, PMHNP-BC, provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Colorado, specializing in medication management for a wide range of conditions. She treats patients from childhood through adulthood, helping individuals navigate ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. Loretta takes an individualized approach to care, understanding that every patient s journey is unique and requires personalized treatment grounded in evidence-based practices.
She is also highly skilled in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD , helping patients reduce distress and develop healthier coping strategies.
Loretta Torres, PMHNP-BC, provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Colorado, specializing in medication management for a wide range of conditions. She treats patients from childhood through adulthood, helping individuals navigate ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. Loretta takes an individualized approach to care, understanding that every patient s journey is unique and requires personalized treatment grounded in evidence-based practices.
(719) 674-0581 View (719) 674-0581
Photo of Ola Anyanwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ola Anyanwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My client focus is treating all mental health conditions across life span with special focus but not limited to ADHD, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Substance abuse, suicidal ideation, Sleep disturbances, eating disorders, OCD, LGBTQ, Body dysmorphias and serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Hi, My name is Ola Anyanwu PMHNP-BC licensed in Texas, Wyoming, Colorado and Virginia. I am a people person and love interacting with my clients to provide wholesome care on their mental health journey. My approach to mental healthcare as a provider is client focused, therapeutic and holistic while treating multifaceted patients to promote overall wellness. I provide telehealth care and apply an integral part of overall health and wellness to influence how individuals cope with stress, relate to others, and make life-based decisions.
My client focus is treating all mental health conditions across life span with special focus but not limited to ADHD, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Substance abuse, suicidal ideation, Sleep disturbances, eating disorders, OCD, LGBTQ, Body dysmorphias and serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Hi, My name is Ola Anyanwu PMHNP-BC licensed in Texas, Wyoming, Colorado and Virginia. I am a people person and love interacting with my clients to provide wholesome care on their mental health journey. My approach to mental healthcare as a provider is client focused, therapeutic and holistic while treating multifaceted patients to promote overall wellness. I provide telehealth care and apply an integral part of overall health and wellness to influence how individuals cope with stress, relate to others, and make life-based decisions.
(833) 511-1364 View (833) 511-1364
Photo of Olga Baturenko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olga Baturenko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I treat patients 18 to 65 years of age for most psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders, disordered eating, OCD, addiction, psychotic disorders, and trauma-related disorders.
I am licensed to practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado. I started my nursing career in 2006, working at psychiatric facilities in Northern Virginia after completing a Bachelor of Science degree at Johns Hopkins University. I earned a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in mental health at the University of Pennsylvania in 2010. Having worked with a broad range of psychiatric conditions in outpatient, inpatient, civilian, and military settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge to every therapeutic encounter.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I treat patients 18 to 65 years of age for most psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders, disordered eating, OCD, addiction, psychotic disorders, and trauma-related disorders.
I am licensed to practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado. I started my nursing career in 2006, working at psychiatric facilities in Northern Virginia after completing a Bachelor of Science degree at Johns Hopkins University. I earned a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in mental health at the University of Pennsylvania in 2010. Having worked with a broad range of psychiatric conditions in outpatient, inpatient, civilian, and military settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge to every therapeutic encounter.
(844) 793-8733 View (844) 793-8733
Photo of Chandra Price, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chandra Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with patients experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, adjustment disorder, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
Hello! Chandra Price here. I am a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner deeply committed to providing compassionate care. With a focus on integrated behavioral health, I draw from my extensive experience in community-based clinics to address both mental health and general medical concerns. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and collaborating with them to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health and well-being.
I specialize in working with patients experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, adjustment disorder, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
Hello! Chandra Price here. I am a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner deeply committed to providing compassionate care. With a focus on integrated behavioral health, I draw from my extensive experience in community-based clinics to address both mental health and general medical concerns. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and collaborating with them to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health and well-being.
(720) 712-3723 View (720) 712-3723
Photo of Megan Riederer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Megan Riederer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
I have experience treating adolescents and adults with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and other mental health conditions.
Hi there! I’m Megan, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have worked in various healthcare settings over the years, first as a CNA/MA, then RN, and now NP. I have shifted my focus in recent years from medical to mental health care. It is my passion to understand and address the psycho-social aspects of patients’ lives to assist them in achieving better physical and mental health. I have extensive experience working with adolescents in acute mental health crises in an inpatient setting.
I have experience treating adolescents and adults with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and other mental health conditions.
Hi there! I’m Megan, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have worked in various healthcare settings over the years, first as a CNA/MA, then RN, and now NP. I have shifted my focus in recent years from medical to mental health care. It is my passion to understand and address the psycho-social aspects of patients’ lives to assist them in achieving better physical and mental health. I have extensive experience working with adolescents in acute mental health crises in an inpatient setting.
(720) 664-3134 View (720) 664-3134
Photo of Lewis Swarthout - Milestone Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Milestone Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80915
I help those suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, as well as many other mental health disorders, including opiate addiction on an outpatient basis using buprenorphine.
During your appointment we will discuss your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Then we will work to develop a treatment plan and we will go over any prescription medications, including potential side effects and how long it should be before you start noticing relief from your symptoms.
I help those suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, as well as many other mental health disorders, including opiate addiction on an outpatient basis using buprenorphine.
During your appointment we will discuss your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Then we will work to develop a treatment plan and we will go over any prescription medications, including potential side effects and how long it should be before you start noticing relief from your symptoms.
(719) 772-0846 View (719) 772-0846
Photo of Shawn Howard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shawn Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more.
I provide a loving, comfortable, unrushed session with all my patient. I decided to pursue medical and mental health because I felt that I could provide better care to my patient in a holistic approach. During each session, client and I will together set realistic goals to help improve their mental health.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more.
I provide a loving, comfortable, unrushed session with all my patient. I decided to pursue medical and mental health because I felt that I could provide better care to my patient in a holistic approach. During each session, client and I will together set realistic goals to help improve their mental health.
(844) 849-9277 View (844) 849-9277
Photo of Christy Short, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APN, MSN
Christy Short
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APN, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104
Whether you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, OCD, PTSD, or you are unsure and just know that something is off, I am here to help you.
I am currently accepting new patients and have availability within three weeks, sometimes same week. Seeking help for whatever mental health obstacles you are facing can be overwhelming and sometimes even scary. I understand that and aim to make your process of restoring your mental health as painless as possible. I want you to feel heard and understood, together we will make a plan and work towards your healing and goals.
Whether you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, OCD, PTSD, or you are unsure and just know that something is off, I am here to help you.
I am currently accepting new patients and have availability within three weeks, sometimes same week. Seeking help for whatever mental health obstacles you are facing can be overwhelming and sometimes even scary. I understand that and aim to make your process of restoring your mental health as painless as possible. I want you to feel heard and understood, together we will make a plan and work towards your healing and goals.
(720) 679-5705 View (720) 679-5705
Photo of Letitia Sam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Letitia Sam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Panic Disorders, and OCD.
After a month, use of medication labs are ordered to make sure they are in the normal range. I am married with four sons, and I understand all family dynamics. I respect patient privacy and choices. I spend time to talk with my patients and have psychotherapy with them. This job is my passion and I enjoy helping people.
I have patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Panic Disorders, and OCD.
After a month, use of medication labs are ordered to make sure they are in the normal range. I am married with four sons, and I understand all family dynamics. I respect patient privacy and choices. I spend time to talk with my patients and have psychotherapy with them. This job is my passion and I enjoy helping people.
(888) 611-7486 View (888) 611-7486
Photo of Kari Stemm-Wolf, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Kari Stemm-Wolf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
​I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating mental health challenges and symptom management for children, teens and adults on the Autism Spectrum, and those with ADHD, Anxiety and OCD.
I work hard to make my office and visits a safe space where clients can feel accepted for who they are without the need to change their presentation, personalities or edit themselves. I honor my clients unique strengths and resilience in managing their mental health challenges by identifying those strengths and reinforcing them.
​I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating mental health challenges and symptom management for children, teens and adults on the Autism Spectrum, and those with ADHD, Anxiety and OCD.
I work hard to make my office and visits a safe space where clients can feel accepted for who they are without the need to change their presentation, personalities or edit themselves. I honor my clients unique strengths and resilience in managing their mental health challenges by identifying those strengths and reinforcing them.
(720) 727-6465 View (720) 727-6465
Photo of Emma Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Emma Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
I help clients facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, and major life transitions.
I offer psychiatric and counseling services focussed on self-care and growth mindset to highlight the importance of small steps in well-being. My goal is to empower individuals to take charge of their own lives by providing clear, accessible information about your options, educating you on your potential path forward, and support you in fully thriving.
I help clients facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, and major life transitions.
I offer psychiatric and counseling services focussed on self-care and growth mindset to highlight the importance of small steps in well-being. My goal is to empower individuals to take charge of their own lives by providing clear, accessible information about your options, educating you on your potential path forward, and support you in fully thriving.
(970) 847-2313 View (970) 847-2313
Photo of Ivy Hoo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ivy Hoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220
I have experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and bipolar disorders.
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
I have experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and bipolar disorders.
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
(720) 706-7133 View (720) 706-7133
Photo of David Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
David Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My expertise covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions across the lifespan, including Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, other Mood Disorders, Eating and Personality Disorders, ADHD and many more.
My approach to patients cares varies based on the individual needs. My aim is to understand every patient from their emotional state and develop customized plan that works for each patient. I give patients and their loved ones enough time to process what has been discussed and respond to their concerns with empathy.
My expertise covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions across the lifespan, including Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, other Mood Disorders, Eating and Personality Disorders, ADHD and many more.
My approach to patients cares varies based on the individual needs. My aim is to understand every patient from their emotional state and develop customized plan that works for each patient. I give patients and their loved ones enough time to process what has been discussed and respond to their concerns with empathy.
(720) 664-9329 View (720) 664-9329
Photo of Ivy Hoo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ivy Hoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205
I have experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and bipolar disorders.
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
I have experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and bipolar disorders.
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
(720) 706-7520 View (720) 706-7520
Photo of Sherra Stclair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sherra Stclair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
She has more than a decade of experience working with individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depressive and anxious disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and trauma responses.
Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, she was inspired to pursue further education while working as part of an inpatient treatment team that included psychiatrists, psychologists, patients, and their families. Witnessing the profound improvements that patients can experience after a crisis motivated her to shift to an outpatient, preventative approach.
She has more than a decade of experience working with individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depressive and anxious disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and trauma responses.
Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, she was inspired to pursue further education while working as part of an inpatient treatment team that included psychiatrists, psychologists, patients, and their families. Witnessing the profound improvements that patients can experience after a crisis motivated her to shift to an outpatient, preventative approach.
(720) 856-4806 View (720) 856-4806

See more therapy options for Elbert County

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists

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 (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), 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.