Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Diana Martinez Avila, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Diana Martinez Avila
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
When anxiety or OCD disrupts your daily rhythm, even the smallest decisions can feel overwhelming.
My own journey through therapy and medication management shaped my belief in what’s possible with the right support. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, CPT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches to help you shift how you relate to painful thoughts and emotions while building a life that reflects your values.
When anxiety or OCD disrupts your daily rhythm, even the smallest decisions can feel overwhelming.
My own journey through therapy and medication management shaped my belief in what’s possible with the right support. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, CPT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches to help you shift how you relate to painful thoughts and emotions while building a life that reflects your values.
(858) 923-5056 View (858) 923-5056
Photo of Brian Blanco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brian Blanco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts and compulsions, trauma, and/or challenges in your relationship, I am here to help.
I feel that psychotherapy is most effective when it is collaborative, flexible, and grounded in what is most important to you. I strive to meet you where you are and build a collaborative relationship that allows space for you to achieve your best life. People who have worked with me appreciate my patience, warmth, authenticity, and thoughtfulness.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts and compulsions, trauma, and/or challenges in your relationship, I am here to help.
I feel that psychotherapy is most effective when it is collaborative, flexible, and grounded in what is most important to you. I strive to meet you where you are and build a collaborative relationship that allows space for you to achieve your best life. People who have worked with me appreciate my patience, warmth, authenticity, and thoughtfulness.
(760) 387-8998 View (760) 387-8998
Photo of Dr. Emel Stroup, Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, BICBTCC
Dr. Emel Stroup
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, BICBTCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, and welcome! In my practice, I work primarily with adult individuals. My special concern is to encourage my clients to not only participate actively in their therapy, but to actually become the principal source of insight into what should be worked on and how and when their goals have been met. This client-orientation - a core element of Cognitive Therapy - is the key to why this approach has been proven so effective not only in treating current conditions, but in preventing relapse. The client is not a passive recipient of therapy, but an active participant and driver of it with the guidance and supervision of the therapist.
Hello, and welcome! In my practice, I work primarily with adult individuals. My special concern is to encourage my clients to not only participate actively in their therapy, but to actually become the principal source of insight into what should be worked on and how and when their goals have been met. This client-orientation - a core element of Cognitive Therapy - is the key to why this approach has been proven so effective not only in treating current conditions, but in preventing relapse. The client is not a passive recipient of therapy, but an active participant and driver of it with the guidance and supervision of the therapist.
(858) 386-7802 View (858) 386-7802
Photo of Jim Carter, Psychologist, PhD
Jim Carter
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapies (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and substance use.
I've been practicing for 20+ years and am a diplomate in the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers. I also provide consultation and training on CBT and MI for organizations and have assisted in program development, training curriculum development, and delivery of training.
I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapies (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and substance use.
I've been practicing for 20+ years and am a diplomate in the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers. I also provide consultation and training on CBT and MI for organizations and have assisted in program development, training curriculum development, and delivery of training.
(858) 752-3520 View (858) 752-3520
Photo of Madeline Becker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Madeline Becker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
I specialize in working with trauma, OCD, self-harm and suicide, and perfectionism.
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, hopeless, or disconnected from our true selves. You may find yourself struggling to heal from childhood wounds, or maybe you are still reeling from a recent loss or huge life change. You find yourself overthinking constantly, unable to sleep, or overwhelmed by anxiety and painful memories. Maybe you’ve been to therapy before, but nothing has really worked. You want to find peace and heal, but you don’t know where to start. I work with adults, teens, and children who are seeking meaningful change and long-lasting healing from a painful past.
I specialize in working with trauma, OCD, self-harm and suicide, and perfectionism.
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, hopeless, or disconnected from our true selves. You may find yourself struggling to heal from childhood wounds, or maybe you are still reeling from a recent loss or huge life change. You find yourself overthinking constantly, unable to sleep, or overwhelmed by anxiety and painful memories. Maybe you’ve been to therapy before, but nothing has really worked. You want to find peace and heal, but you don’t know where to start. I work with adults, teens, and children who are seeking meaningful change and long-lasting healing from a painful past.
(619) 375-5228 View (619) 375-5228
Photo of Anahita Shahbazi, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Certifi, EMDR, ERP
Anahita Shahbazi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Certifi, EMDR, ERP
Online Only
I specialize in treating individuals with OCD, anxiety disorders including phobias and panic disorder, and mood disorders.
If everything around you seems dark, look again, you may be the LIGHT — Rumi. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experience of managing mental health from a young age. This personal journey highlighted the profound power of therapy and inspired me to help others achieve similar transformations...
I specialize in treating individuals with OCD, anxiety disorders including phobias and panic disorder, and mood disorders.
If everything around you seems dark, look again, you may be the LIGHT — Rumi. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experience of managing mental health from a young age. This personal journey highlighted the profound power of therapy and inspired me to help others achieve similar transformations...
(858) 683-1235 View (858) 683-1235
Photo of Allison Lucchese, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Lucchese
Marriage & Family Therapist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, depression, and navigating intergenerational dynamics.
Welcome! Facing life's challenges can be difficult. I believe therapy offers a space to find growth, resilience, and deeper self-understanding. I am here to walk alongside you with compassion, empathy, and understanding as we explore how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence your well-being and relationships. As a first-generation Guatemalan-American, I recognize the importance of cultural identity and its role in shaping our experiences. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that honors your unique story while fostering resilience and empowerment.
I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, depression, and navigating intergenerational dynamics.
Welcome! Facing life's challenges can be difficult. I believe therapy offers a space to find growth, resilience, and deeper self-understanding. I am here to walk alongside you with compassion, empathy, and understanding as we explore how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence your well-being and relationships. As a first-generation Guatemalan-American, I recognize the importance of cultural identity and its role in shaping our experiences. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that honors your unique story while fostering resilience and empowerment.
(818) 293-2410 View (818) 293-2410
Photo of Tara Miskovich, Psychologist, PhD
Tara Miskovich
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer several evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure, Exposure Response Prevention for OCD, and Behavioral Activation for depression.
My therapeutic approach is primarily Cognitive Behavioral which integrates mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment-based approaches. Additionally, I incorporate humanistic elements that fundamentally hold that each individual has inherent worth and value. In therapy, we explore the ways internal and external factors have impacted your mental health and strive toward achieving your tailored treatment goals.
I offer several evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure, Exposure Response Prevention for OCD, and Behavioral Activation for depression.
My therapeutic approach is primarily Cognitive Behavioral which integrates mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment-based approaches. Additionally, I incorporate humanistic elements that fundamentally hold that each individual has inherent worth and value. In therapy, we explore the ways internal and external factors have impacted your mental health and strive toward achieving your tailored treatment goals.
(619) 848-3543 View (619) 848-3543
Photo of Katherine Pica, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Katherine Pica, LCSW
Katherine Pica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Katherine Pica, LCSW
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I specialize in compassionate evidenced based therapy for Anxiety, OCD and Trauma.
I treat individuals with many different issues who come from all walks of life. I do specialize in treating Anxiety, OCD and Trauma. I am trained in EMDR, ERP, CBT, ACT and mindfulness skills. While I think talking and hearing from you is so important also it's important for me to help you learn different coping skills, in order to make significant change
I specialize in compassionate evidenced based therapy for Anxiety, OCD and Trauma.
I treat individuals with many different issues who come from all walks of life. I do specialize in treating Anxiety, OCD and Trauma. I am trained in EMDR, ERP, CBT, ACT and mindfulness skills. While I think talking and hearing from you is so important also it's important for me to help you learn different coping skills, in order to make significant change
(858) 266-9613 View (858) 266-9613
Photo of Melissa Love, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Melissa Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
My background includes behavior therapy for children with developmental disorders, treatment for OCD, depression, anxiety, and addiction treatment.
I love working in partnership with clients to rebuild areas of life that have been affected by mental health. My goal as a therapist is to create a space for clients to heal and find balance.
My background includes behavior therapy for children with developmental disorders, treatment for OCD, depression, anxiety, and addiction treatment.
I love working in partnership with clients to rebuild areas of life that have been affected by mental health. My goal as a therapist is to create a space for clients to heal and find balance.
(858) 533-2758 View (858) 533-2758
Photo of Janay Pierce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Janay Pierce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Janay. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from Arizona State University and have been practicing for 6 years. I help young adults struggling with difficult thoughts about the future or the past identify what matters most to them to live a meaningful life. I work alongside folx to help them build the courage to live the life they want!
Welcome! I'm Janay. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from Arizona State University and have been practicing for 6 years. I help young adults struggling with difficult thoughts about the future or the past identify what matters most to them to live a meaningful life. I work alongside folx to help them build the courage to live the life they want!
(619) 566-7279 View (619) 566-7279
Photo of Mackenzie Burdick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mackenzie Burdick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience working in all levels of care with clients across the lifespan experiencing substance use disorders, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and life transition struggles.
Are anxiety, sadness, or perfectionism getting in the way of the life you want? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—from others, or even from yourself? You don’t have to face this alone. I work with older teens and adults navigating trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed and systems-based, and I often use EMDR to help process painful experiences and foster healing. I’m especially passionate about exploring the link between anxiety, perfectionism, and unresolved inner wounds. Together, we can work toward relief, insight, and lasting change.
I have experience working in all levels of care with clients across the lifespan experiencing substance use disorders, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and life transition struggles.
Are anxiety, sadness, or perfectionism getting in the way of the life you want? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—from others, or even from yourself? You don’t have to face this alone. I work with older teens and adults navigating trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed and systems-based, and I often use EMDR to help process painful experiences and foster healing. I’m especially passionate about exploring the link between anxiety, perfectionism, and unresolved inner wounds. Together, we can work toward relief, insight, and lasting change.
(619) 830-2057 View (619) 830-2057
Photo of Vanessa Amaro, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Vanessa Amaro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92108
Throughout life’s journey, we can face challenges, transitions, and trials. Perhaps you are seeking and longing for growth, change and a healthy way to cope with life’s stressors. In therapy, a safe place is created so that you can navigate life stressors by incorporating healthy coping skills. Often times, we can feel like we are stuck. Stuck in behaviors, patterns, or even relationships. We see the hopeful path ahead but are struggling to take the first step. In therapy, you also gain understanding of the root cause of certain patterns and mindsets. Therapy can become the place of healing, growth, and change.
Throughout life’s journey, we can face challenges, transitions, and trials. Perhaps you are seeking and longing for growth, change and a healthy way to cope with life’s stressors. In therapy, a safe place is created so that you can navigate life stressors by incorporating healthy coping skills. Often times, we can feel like we are stuck. Stuck in behaviors, patterns, or even relationships. We see the hopeful path ahead but are struggling to take the first step. In therapy, you also gain understanding of the root cause of certain patterns and mindsets. Therapy can become the place of healing, growth, and change.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Esther Wolf, Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, MA
Esther Wolf
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Let's break your run of having shitty health professionals! As someone living with chronic illnesses, I don't have to use my imagination to believe you when you tell me that you're not being taken seriously, you're frustrated with the adjustments you have to make, and you're exhausted from managing all of it.
Let's break your run of having shitty health professionals! As someone living with chronic illnesses, I don't have to use my imagination to believe you when you tell me that you're not being taken seriously, you're frustrated with the adjustments you have to make, and you're exhausted from managing all of it.
(347) 620-5610 View (347) 620-5610
Photo of Gabrielle Kligis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gabrielle Kligis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi, I’m Gabby! Professionally, I am a licensed therapist, but at heart I will always be a small town midwest girl with a passion for helping others. I have over 12 years experience providing social services to at risk and underserved populations in a number of settings from outpatient mental health clinics, school based mental health centers, and acute psychiatric care in hospital and residential treatment settings. My values lie in empathy, integrity, and self advocacy for all which is reflected throughout the treatment process and the care I provide to my clients.
Hi, I’m Gabby! Professionally, I am a licensed therapist, but at heart I will always be a small town midwest girl with a passion for helping others. I have over 12 years experience providing social services to at risk and underserved populations in a number of settings from outpatient mental health clinics, school based mental health centers, and acute psychiatric care in hospital and residential treatment settings. My values lie in empathy, integrity, and self advocacy for all which is reflected throughout the treatment process and the care I provide to my clients.
(619) 916-4728 View (619) 916-4728
Photo of Meagan Becker - Meagan Becker: HOPE Therapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, MSW
Meagan Becker: HOPE Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, MSW
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
I love working with children, teens, and adults in areas of OCD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, identity, attachment, interpersonal challenges, life transitions, and trauma.
I employ creative and developmentally appropriate therapeutic techniques to foster growth and resilience. For adults facing life's challenges, my approach is tailored, combining evidence-based interventions with a genuine commitment to your well-being.
I love working with children, teens, and adults in areas of OCD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, identity, attachment, interpersonal challenges, life transitions, and trauma.
I employ creative and developmentally appropriate therapeutic techniques to foster growth and resilience. For adults facing life's challenges, my approach is tailored, combining evidence-based interventions with a genuine commitment to your well-being.
(619) 776-3611 View (619) 776-3611
Photo of Christopher Booth, Psychologist, Psy D
Christopher Booth
Psychologist, Psy D
Online Only
I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety-related disorders using evidence-based therapy.
I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety-related disorders using evidence-based therapies such as ERP, ACT, and CBT. My clients often function well on the outside but feel trapped in their minds. They come to me because they don’t want surface-level talk therapy—they want a structured, scientifically proven approach that leads to lasting freedom.
I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety-related disorders using evidence-based therapy.
I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety-related disorders using evidence-based therapies such as ERP, ACT, and CBT. My clients often function well on the outside but feel trapped in their minds. They come to me because they don’t want surface-level talk therapy—they want a structured, scientifically proven approach that leads to lasting freedom.
(858) 251-6718 View (858) 251-6718
Photo of Roselyn Romano, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Roselyn Romano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92108
If you suffer from worry and anxiety or OCD, you are in the right place.
I help those who desire quiet from the noise of constant thinking, self-doubt, and worry. Those who are sick of feeling not good enough no matter how hard they try. Those who feel powerless against compulsive urges they can’t seem to resist. And those who want to let go of the mental chatter of a mind incessantly playing out worst case scenarios.
If you suffer from worry and anxiety or OCD, you are in the right place.
I help those who desire quiet from the noise of constant thinking, self-doubt, and worry. Those who are sick of feeling not good enough no matter how hard they try. Those who feel powerless against compulsive urges they can’t seem to resist. And those who want to let go of the mental chatter of a mind incessantly playing out worst case scenarios.
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Photo of Anna Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Anna Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
These traits can bring structure to our lives, but they may also signal deeper struggles with Anxiety or OCD.
In addition to working with clients, I train other therapists in treating OCD and have presented at professional conferences on this topic. I also work with individuals navigating life transitions, such as career changes, relationship shifts, and other major events. Together, we’ll focus on easing your distress and building the life you envision.
These traits can bring structure to our lives, but they may also signal deeper struggles with Anxiety or OCD.
In addition to working with clients, I train other therapists in treating OCD and have presented at professional conferences on this topic. I also work with individuals navigating life transitions, such as career changes, relationship shifts, and other major events. Together, we’ll focus on easing your distress and building the life you envision.
(619) 568-5720 View (619) 568-5720
Photo of Miguel Humara, Psychologist, PhD
Miguel Humara
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
These treatment methods have been extensively validated in research as the best method for dealing with many problems including: anxiety, depression, obsessive thinking, problematic relationships, and sexual dysfunction.
Change your life for the better with short-term therapy that empowers you to solve your own problems fast. People in today's world face many unique challenges. Whether you are just starting out, questioning the future or regretting the past, you may need help in dealing with life's social, relational and occupational difficulties.
These treatment methods have been extensively validated in research as the best method for dealing with many problems including: anxiety, depression, obsessive thinking, problematic relationships, and sexual dysfunction.
Change your life for the better with short-term therapy that empowers you to solve your own problems fast. People in today's world face many unique challenges. Whether you are just starting out, questioning the future or regretting the past, you may need help in dealing with life's social, relational and occupational difficulties.
(619) 693-1410 View (619) 693-1410

See more therapy options for San Diego

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists

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.