Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists in Cuyahoga County, OH

Photo of Nne Ihemere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Nne Ihemere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and substance use disorders.
Hi my name is Nne, I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in psychiatry, and a certified Clinical Nurse Leader. I have over fifteen years of healthcare experience as a critical/acute care nurse at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, clinical instructor, and psychiatric mental health service provider.
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and substance use disorders.
Hi my name is Nne, I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in psychiatry, and a certified Clinical Nurse Leader. I have over fifteen years of healthcare experience as a critical/acute care nurse at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, clinical instructor, and psychiatric mental health service provider.
(614) 333-1915 View (614) 333-1915
Photo of Annamaria Oddo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Annamaria Oddo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience with many mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and more.
Scheduling for JULY for new patients at this time. Welcome to Mind and Body Psychiatry! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner accepting patients ages 15 and up in Ohio. My role involves addressing symptoms and challenges that patients face with medication, but also identifying other factors that could contribute to their mental health. This includes medical conditions, lifestyle factors, coping skills, genetics, and more. I offer genetic testing to help narrow down psychotropic medication options and to help patients understand why previous medications may not have worked.
I have experience with many mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and more.
Scheduling for JULY for new patients at this time. Welcome to Mind and Body Psychiatry! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner accepting patients ages 15 and up in Ohio. My role involves addressing symptoms and challenges that patients face with medication, but also identifying other factors that could contribute to their mental health. This includes medical conditions, lifestyle factors, coping skills, genetics, and more. I offer genetic testing to help narrow down psychotropic medication options and to help patients understand why previous medications may not have worked.
(614) 877-8627 View (614) 877-8627
Photo of Julia Lobodenko-Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julia Lobodenko-Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Maybe it’s OCD, ADHD, anxiety, or mood swings that never quite settle.
I work with people navigating OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and mood shifts that make life harder than it needs to be. My approach is collaborative, trauma-aware, and genuinely thoughtful. You deserve care that sees the whole you—and helps you feel calmer, more focused, and finally supported.
Maybe it’s OCD, ADHD, anxiety, or mood swings that never quite settle.
I work with people navigating OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and mood shifts that make life harder than it needs to be. My approach is collaborative, trauma-aware, and genuinely thoughtful. You deserve care that sees the whole you—and helps you feel calmer, more focused, and finally supported.
(216) 284-9912 View (216) 284-9912
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44106
I diagnose and treat the full spectrum of mental illness, including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
I diagnose and treat the full spectrum of mental illness, including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Krista McDonald, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Krista McDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, eating disorders, panic disorder, PTSD, women's mental health issues, pregnancy and mental health, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic pain and mental health, and more.
Krista Mousted is a dual certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health, who has been practicing since 2007. Her current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner Krista worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, eating disorders, panic disorder, PTSD, women's mental health issues, pregnancy and mental health, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic pain and mental health, and more.
Krista Mousted is a dual certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health, who has been practicing since 2007. Her current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner Krista worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
(216) 626-7105 View (216) 626-7105
Photo of Renattie Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Renattie Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with the adult and geriatric populations and specialize in mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with more than 15 years of experience treating a wide range of mental health and medical disorders. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing comprehensive mental health care; I have extensive knowledge of psychopharmacology and its uses in a variety of mental health disorders. Common theoretical approaches in my practice include cognitive perspective, behaviorism, humanistic psychology, social learning theory, and developmental theories.
I work with the adult and geriatric populations and specialize in mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with more than 15 years of experience treating a wide range of mental health and medical disorders. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing comprehensive mental health care; I have extensive knowledge of psychopharmacology and its uses in a variety of mental health disorders. Common theoretical approaches in my practice include cognitive perspective, behaviorism, humanistic psychology, social learning theory, and developmental theories.
(440) 557-4687 View (440) 557-4687
Photo of Sarah Amo-Mensah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Sarah Amo-Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parma, OH 44134
I work with patients experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD and OCD.
I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, ongoing medication management, and supportive, person-centered care that respects each patient’s unique story, background, and goals. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in empathy. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered
I work with patients experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD and OCD.
I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, ongoing medication management, and supportive, person-centered care that respects each patient’s unique story, background, and goals. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in empathy. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered
(216) 478-4805 View (216) 478-4805
Photo of Michael Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Michael Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I primarily work with adults with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, OCD, ADHD (non-stimulant medications), and PTSD.
Hi! My name is Michael Barnes. I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about helping clients with their mental health needs. I have worked in numerous mental health settings and I have experience with a wide range of mental health conditions. I am a retired Army Veteran and have a special interest in treating trauma and addiction.
I primarily work with adults with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, OCD, ADHD (non-stimulant medications), and PTSD.
Hi! My name is Michael Barnes. I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about helping clients with their mental health needs. I have worked in numerous mental health settings and I have experience with a wide range of mental health conditions. I am a retired Army Veteran and have a special interest in treating trauma and addiction.
(440) 467-3655 View (440) 467-3655
Photo of Lydia Potoma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Lydia Potoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain (no opioids), weight management, eating disorders, thinking disorders, mood disorders, dual diagnosis, Dementia/Alzheimer's, and behavioral issues.
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 5 years experience as an Inpatient Psych Hospitalist, Outpatient Provider and Nursing Home Consultant. 19 years experience in Inpatient/Outpatient Adult Psychiatry, Psychiatric Emergency Department, Long-Term Care, and Memory Care. Received Master's of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain (no opioids), weight management, eating disorders, thinking disorders, mood disorders, dual diagnosis, Dementia/Alzheimer's, and behavioral issues.
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 5 years experience as an Inpatient Psych Hospitalist, Outpatient Provider and Nursing Home Consultant. 19 years experience in Inpatient/Outpatient Adult Psychiatry, Psychiatric Emergency Department, Long-Term Care, and Memory Care. Received Master's of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University.
(216) 290-2543 View (216) 290-2543
Photo of Anthonia Nzika, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anthonia Nzika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal is to empower children and adults through a quick recovery from depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, ODD, CD, SAD, and more.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by profession. We work with clients to explore how imbalance(s) of mind-body-spirit can affect them and their relationship with others. It is also important to note that controlled substances are not prescribed at our clinic. I use a holistic treatment approach to empower and promote the highest level of functioning, educate and counsel clients and their families to increase their mental health awareness, therefore reducing any stigma associated with mental healthcare.
My goal is to empower children and adults through a quick recovery from depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, ODD, CD, SAD, and more.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by profession. We work with clients to explore how imbalance(s) of mind-body-spirit can affect them and their relationship with others. It is also important to note that controlled substances are not prescribed at our clinic. I use a holistic treatment approach to empower and promote the highest level of functioning, educate and counsel clients and their families to increase their mental health awareness, therefore reducing any stigma associated with mental healthcare.
(440) 643-4697 View (440) 643-4697
Photo of Dr. Elif Yilmaz, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Elif Yilmaz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr Yilmaz has expertise in treating a variety of psychiatric conditions including: ​Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress Disorder Obsessive compulsive disorder Grief, traumatic loss, and other adjustment reaction Bipolar disorder Post-Partum Depression Psychotic disorders, Immigrant/Refugee Mental Health Care Sleep Disorders and Postpartum depression/Anxiety.
Dr. Yilmaz is a board certified psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from Hacettepe University School of Medicine and completed her residency in psychiatry both in her home city, Turkey in 2006 and here in US at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in 2016. She also has a fellowship in psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at Boston Psychoanalytic Society.
Dr Yilmaz has expertise in treating a variety of psychiatric conditions including: ​Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress Disorder Obsessive compulsive disorder Grief, traumatic loss, and other adjustment reaction Bipolar disorder Post-Partum Depression Psychotic disorders, Immigrant/Refugee Mental Health Care Sleep Disorders and Postpartum depression/Anxiety.
Dr. Yilmaz is a board certified psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from Hacettepe University School of Medicine and completed her residency in psychiatry both in her home city, Turkey in 2006 and here in US at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in 2016. She also has a fellowship in psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at Boston Psychoanalytic Society.
(440) 636-1435 View (440) 636-1435
Photo of Kayla Stewart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, ADHDCSP
Kayla Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
I have a specialty certification in ADHD and also work with depression, anxiety, OCD, personality disorders and bipolar disorder frequently.
Feeling invalidated? Not being heard about your needs? Looking for a provider to actually HEAR you about your symptoms and develop a plan WITH you, rather than around you? My goal with my clients is to provide the best possible options for your mental health needs and let YOU navigate your mental health.
I have a specialty certification in ADHD and also work with depression, anxiety, OCD, personality disorders and bipolar disorder frequently.
Feeling invalidated? Not being heard about your needs? Looking for a provider to actually HEAR you about your symptoms and develop a plan WITH you, rather than around you? My goal with my clients is to provide the best possible options for your mental health needs and let YOU navigate your mental health.
(216) 628-2211 View (216) 628-2211
Photo of Melanie Wolf - Melanie Wolf at Revive Counseling and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Melanie Wolf at Revive Counseling and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rocky River, OH 44116
With a focus on evidence-based treatment, I specialize in managing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, prenatal and antenatal mental health issues, and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD).
With extensive experience in both clinical and community settings, I understand the complexities and challenges of mental health conditions. My passion for mental health care is driven by a desire to empower my patients, providing them with the tools and support needed to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
With a focus on evidence-based treatment, I specialize in managing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, prenatal and antenatal mental health issues, and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD).
With extensive experience in both clinical and community settings, I understand the complexities and challenges of mental health conditions. My passion for mental health care is driven by a desire to empower my patients, providing them with the tools and support needed to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
(216) 474-4217 View (216) 474-4217
Photo of Amanda Lambert - Amanda Lambert at Revive Counseling and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Lambert at Revive Counseling and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky River, OH 44116
I enjoy working with patients of all ages and mental health disorders including, but not limited to, OCD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Hi! My name is Amanda! I am committed to helping improve the mental health of my patients through both medication management and therapeutic intervention. My approach to mental health treatment focuses on treating each patient as an individual by diving into their personal history, concerns with medication, and goals of treatment to improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
I enjoy working with patients of all ages and mental health disorders including, but not limited to, OCD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Hi! My name is Amanda! I am committed to helping improve the mental health of my patients through both medication management and therapeutic intervention. My approach to mental health treatment focuses on treating each patient as an individual by diving into their personal history, concerns with medication, and goals of treatment to improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
(216) 294-3692 View (216) 294-3692
Photo of Elizabeth Shelley, Psychiatrist, MD
Elizabeth Shelley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake, OH 44145
I specialize in treating a variety of psychiatric conditions including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Borderline Personality Disorder, as well as severe or treatment-resistant cases of depression and anxiety.
My name is Dr. Elizabeth Shelley, I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I am dedicated to providing expert and compassionate medication management and therapy to individuals starting from the age of 8 through adulthood. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit my website at elizabethshelleymd.com.
I specialize in treating a variety of psychiatric conditions including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Borderline Personality Disorder, as well as severe or treatment-resistant cases of depression and anxiety.
My name is Dr. Elizabeth Shelley, I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I am dedicated to providing expert and compassionate medication management and therapy to individuals starting from the age of 8 through adulthood. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit my website at elizabethshelleymd.com.
(440) 970-0921 View (440) 970-0921
Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Olivetta Uradu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Uradu offers expert treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
Uradu offers expert treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
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Photo of Jaclyn Lanham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jaclyn Lanham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD.
I have both inpatient, outpatient, and community practice experience with additional training in psychiatric disorders and holistic health approaches.
Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD.
I have both inpatient, outpatient, and community practice experience with additional training in psychiatric disorders and holistic health approaches.
(513) 676-4992 View (513) 676-4992
Photo of Deebora Monroe - Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
She concentrates on treating a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, OCD, and similar issues.
Dr. Monroe's care approach is based on evidence-based methods and patient-focused strategies. Building a solid therapeutic connection with each person, creating a secure and supportive space for honest dialogue, and encouraging patients to play an active role in managing their mental health is where healing begins and wellness flourishes.
She concentrates on treating a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, OCD, and similar issues.
Dr. Monroe's care approach is based on evidence-based methods and patient-focused strategies. Building a solid therapeutic connection with each person, creating a secure and supportive space for honest dialogue, and encouraging patients to play an active role in managing their mental health is where healing begins and wellness flourishes.
(440) 496-7382 View (440) 496-7382
Photo of Shawn Faust, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with clients dealing with depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, PTSD and various psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
I work with clients dealing with depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, PTSD and various psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Ebony Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP-C
Ebony Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
With over 16 years of experience in the medical field, my expertise includes treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.
I provide personalized care that integrates evidence-based practices and complementary therapies. My approach focuses on building authentic connections and creating a safe environment for healing. Let’s collaborate on your journey to mental wellness.
With over 16 years of experience in the medical field, my expertise includes treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.
I provide personalized care that integrates evidence-based practices and complementary therapies. My approach focuses on building authentic connections and creating a safe environment for healing. Let’s collaborate on your journey to mental wellness.
(234) 956-2118 View (234) 956-2118

See more therapy options for Cuyahoga 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.