Photo of Wendy Besler, MD, Psychiatrist
Wendy Besler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I do not believe in the current practice of symptomatic medicine. It has proven ineffective and has divided the practice of medicine into specialties, forgetting that the body functions in a constant state of homeostasis- all systems reliant on each other to function optimally. I believe that treating the underlying issue, down to the molecular basis, is what needs to be addressed in order to treat and eventually heal the disease. Unfortunately diseases have been categorized into separate entities when there is a common thread that is shared between them. My goal is to heal the mind & body as whole through integrative medicine.
I do not believe in the current practice of symptomatic medicine. It has proven ineffective and has divided the practice of medicine into specialties, forgetting that the body functions in a constant state of homeostasis- all systems reliant on each other to function optimally. I believe that treating the underlying issue, down to the molecular basis, is what needs to be addressed in order to treat and eventually heal the disease. Unfortunately diseases have been categorized into separate entities when there is a common thread that is shared between them. My goal is to heal the mind & body as whole through integrative medicine.
(947) 222-1791 View (947) 222-1791
Photo of undefined - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We will work with you to find the right medication(s) to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling or other services may also be needed and we will find the right specialist on our team for you. Our time is limited and we can't see patients in counseling with other providers.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We will work with you to find the right medication(s) to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling or other services may also be needed and we will find the right specialist on our team for you. Our time is limited and we can't see patients in counseling with other providers.
(248) 598-7285 View (248) 598-7285
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.