Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists in 97205

Photo of Nate Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Nate Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I have experience in addressing obstacles to growth that fall within these categories: depression, anxiety, obsessive tendencies, anger management, mood swings, panic, histories of trauma or abuse, self-defeating patterns of thought and behavior, grief and bereavement, LGBTQ+ topics, gender identity and issues surrounding minority status.
Hello! I'm currently accepting clients for medication management only for Oregon residents. As you consider mental health medications, you're likely feeling some mix of overwhelmed, exhausted, unfulfilled, and "stuck." The way you feel might be connected to challenging transitions in your life, a sense of unmet potential, or even long-held emotions and memories of painful experiences and relationships. The good news is that often times medications work and finding the right "fit" in a provider is a big initial step. Please click over to my website to see a full description of my approach. I look forward to hearing from you!
I have experience in addressing obstacles to growth that fall within these categories: depression, anxiety, obsessive tendencies, anger management, mood swings, panic, histories of trauma or abuse, self-defeating patterns of thought and behavior, grief and bereavement, LGBTQ+ topics, gender identity and issues surrounding minority status.
Hello! I'm currently accepting clients for medication management only for Oregon residents. As you consider mental health medications, you're likely feeling some mix of overwhelmed, exhausted, unfulfilled, and "stuck." The way you feel might be connected to challenging transitions in your life, a sense of unmet potential, or even long-held emotions and memories of painful experiences and relationships. The good news is that often times medications work and finding the right "fit" in a provider is a big initial step. Please click over to my website to see a full description of my approach. I look forward to hearing from you!
(503) 962-0493 x2 View (503) 962-0493 x2
Photo of Brian Pollock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Brian Pollock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My areas of expertise include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders and mood disorders.
I welcome and am excited to help people of all backgrounds and identities! I am here if you are looking for relief from emotional pain, mental distress or other struggles. I want to help you through whatever is causing you difficulties in a supportive and collaborative way. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I strive to create an accepting and safe environment where we work together to decrease your symptoms and struggles and to support your health and growth. One specific passion and areas of expertise of mine is working with college students which I have been doing for 10 years!
My areas of expertise include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders and mood disorders.
I welcome and am excited to help people of all backgrounds and identities! I am here if you are looking for relief from emotional pain, mental distress or other struggles. I want to help you through whatever is causing you difficulties in a supportive and collaborative way. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I strive to create an accepting and safe environment where we work together to decrease your symptoms and struggles and to support your health and growth. One specific passion and areas of expertise of mine is working with college students which I have been doing for 10 years!
(971) 247-3643 x1 View (971) 247-3643 x1
Photo of Heather Hemmeger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Heather Hemmeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My clinical interests include mood and anxiety disorders, women's mental health (including perinatal), OCD, chronic pain/illness, college mental health, and nursing education.
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
My clinical interests include mood and anxiety disorders, women's mental health (including perinatal), OCD, chronic pain/illness, college mental health, and nursing education.
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
Photo of Donna D Templeton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Donna D Templeton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I provide medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle coaching and stress management in a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental environment to adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD, sexual abuse and LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
I provide medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle coaching and stress management in a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental environment to adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD, sexual abuse and LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
(971) 257-1188 View (971) 257-1188
Photo of Njideka Domrufus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Njideka Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(971) 224-7994 View (971) 224-7994
Photo of Marisa Bell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I particularly enjoy helping people with bipolar, OCD, and PTSD who may be searching for equilibrium and answers to the big questions these new diagnoses have brought up.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I particularly enjoy helping people with bipolar, OCD, and PTSD who may be searching for equilibrium and answers to the big questions these new diagnoses have brought up.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
(541) 920-1081 View (541) 920-1081
Photo of Onome Edokun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Onome Edokun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, ACNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
At Lights Health, we specialized in Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Safe Compassionate care using Evidence Based practice to enhance the well-being of individuals struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, Pregnancy a postpartum, eating disorder. We are dedicated to creating a therapeutic alliance with our patients built on trust, empathy and understanding, creating a safe space where individuals can express themselves without judgment. We will work with you to individualize the treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
At Lights Health, we specialized in Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Safe Compassionate care using Evidence Based practice to enhance the well-being of individuals struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, Pregnancy a postpartum, eating disorder. We are dedicated to creating a therapeutic alliance with our patients built on trust, empathy and understanding, creating a safe space where individuals can express themselves without judgment. We will work with you to individualize the treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
(832) 346-7662 View (832) 346-7662
Photo of Liz Farrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Liz Farrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
(503) 832-6998 View (503) 832-6998
Photo of Red Clover Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Red Clover Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Appointment request can be found at: intakeq.com/new/9phqdc. Better mental health is within reach. I work in an active, collaborative way with individuals to find strategies that will reduce suffering associated with anxiety, mood problems, compulsions, chronic stress, loneliness, and other problems that affect daily living. I specialize in prescribing medication to target symptoms of psychiatric disorders, while maintaining focus on the whole person in treatment. We will discuss your overall health, self-care, relaxation practices, and finding meaning and inspiration in life, alongside evaluating your response to medications.
Appointment request can be found at: intakeq.com/new/9phqdc. Better mental health is within reach. I work in an active, collaborative way with individuals to find strategies that will reduce suffering associated with anxiety, mood problems, compulsions, chronic stress, loneliness, and other problems that affect daily living. I specialize in prescribing medication to target symptoms of psychiatric disorders, while maintaining focus on the whole person in treatment. We will discuss your overall health, self-care, relaxation practices, and finding meaning and inspiration in life, alongside evaluating your response to medications.
(503) 743-6721 View (503) 743-6721
Soroush Mohandessi
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available for new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available for new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
(971) 715-2826 View (971) 715-2826
Photo of Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
(971) 314-6635 View (971) 314-6635
Photo of Elena Logvinenko, Psychiatrist in 97205, OR
Elena Logvinenko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland. I provide both psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric evaluation and med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly (at least every other week, preferably one or more times a week). While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. Medication can turn people's lives around, but it's not the best choice (or likely to work) for everyone. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment.
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland. I provide both psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric evaluation and med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly (at least every other week, preferably one or more times a week). While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. Medication can turn people's lives around, but it's not the best choice (or likely to work) for everyone. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment.
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Photo of Steven Knott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Steven Knott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am a board certified, licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from college with recognition for outstanding scholastic performance in the major of nursing at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. I spent the next 7 years working in mental health with all different populations and facilities within Las Vegas, then graduated from top-ranked Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in the United States through Vanderbilt University. I was a recipient of the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Scholarship fund and was invited to the Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
I am a board certified, licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from college with recognition for outstanding scholastic performance in the major of nursing at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. I spent the next 7 years working in mental health with all different populations and facilities within Las Vegas, then graduated from top-ranked Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in the United States through Vanderbilt University. I was a recipient of the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Scholarship fund and was invited to the Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
(971) 545-8153 View (971) 545-8153
Photo of Farah Raqib, Psychiatrist in 97205, OR
Farah Raqib
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit website.
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit website.
(503) 445-8228 View (503) 445-8228
Photo of Melanie Ramsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Melanie Ramsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
(971) 232-3233 View (971) 232-3233
Photo of Kathryn Zerbe, Psychiatrist in 97205, OR
Kathryn Zerbe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
(971) 255-0043 View (971) 255-0043
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(971) 256-8187 View (971) 256-8187
Photo of Annie Hood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Annie Hood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
(503) 868-0238 View (503) 868-0238
Photo of Warren Tom Roseland Jr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Warren Tom Roseland Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, BSN, MS, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Healing Relationships are the result of careful listening, dialogue, respect, trust, collaboration, and clear and concise education in midst of a persons real life and in as real time as possible. This requires both real time and asynchronous interaction using all aspects of technology for communication. The care must be affordable and focused on best outcomes. > Telehealth for ALL of Oregon.<
Healing Relationships are the result of careful listening, dialogue, respect, trust, collaboration, and clear and concise education in midst of a persons real life and in as real time as possible. This requires both real time and asynchronous interaction using all aspects of technology for communication. The care must be affordable and focused on best outcomes. > Telehealth for ALL of Oregon.<
(541) 896-5494 View (541) 896-5494
Photo of Natalya Mortimer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Natalya Mortimer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Our clients seek meaningful outcomes. They aspire to improve their well-being, enabling them to actively participate in life, achieve peak functionality, and pursue profound purpose. Natalya provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment planning tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. She has a particular interest in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders, with a focus on integrating evidence-based practices that promote resilience and positive mental health outcomes.
Our clients seek meaningful outcomes. They aspire to improve their well-being, enabling them to actively participate in life, achieve peak functionality, and pursue profound purpose. Natalya provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment planning tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. She has a particular interest in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders, with a focus on integrating evidence-based practices that promote resilience and positive mental health outcomes.
(458) 235-4992 View (458) 235-4992
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.