Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Washington, DC
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems.
I am an internationally recognized CBT expert, author of a widely used book on empirically-supported treatments for anxiety and depression and presenter at major conferences. All of our therapists have advanced training in CBT, including mindfulness and acceptance based approaches. Many also do research, publish and train other professionals.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems.
I am an internationally recognized CBT expert, author of a widely used book on empirically-supported treatments for anxiety and depression and presenter at major conferences. All of our therapists have advanced training in CBT, including mindfulness and acceptance based approaches. Many also do research, publish and train other professionals.
I have extensive experience working with people struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, addiction, & self-esteem.
I am currently offering telehealth video therapy to clients in Washington D.C., Maryland, Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. I have been providing virtual therapy for over 10 years, and find that virtual therapy removes many barriers to therapy that would otherwise prevent someone from seeking support.
I have extensive experience working with people struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, addiction, & self-esteem.
I am currently offering telehealth video therapy to clients in Washington D.C., Maryland, Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. I have been providing virtual therapy for over 10 years, and find that virtual therapy removes many barriers to therapy that would otherwise prevent someone from seeking support.
Thankfully, anxiety disorders, OCD, and related problems are highly treatable.
The decision to start treatment takes courage, but you are not alone. Using CBT and ERP, I help patients confront distressing triggers and unwanted intrusive thoughts without engaging in rituals. Together, we work on creating new responses that hopefully render the fearful thoughts as a mere nuisance at worst and a distant memory at best.
Thankfully, anxiety disorders, OCD, and related problems are highly treatable.
The decision to start treatment takes courage, but you are not alone. Using CBT and ERP, I help patients confront distressing triggers and unwanted intrusive thoughts without engaging in rituals. Together, we work on creating new responses that hopefully render the fearful thoughts as a mere nuisance at worst and a distant memory at best.
I work with clients who are struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns, as well as co-occurring disorders, including anxiety, OCD, and depression.
While beginning therapy with someone new can feel nerve-wracking, seeking out mental health care is a testament to your strength and courage. In session, we'll create a safe space of trust and empathy to be able to figure out what best suits you in our work together. We'll dive deeper into your experiences in order to create meaning and understanding. We will work to uncover the root causes of your presenting concerns, becoming curious about the patterns in your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions to foster insight.
I work with clients who are struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns, as well as co-occurring disorders, including anxiety, OCD, and depression.
While beginning therapy with someone new can feel nerve-wracking, seeking out mental health care is a testament to your strength and courage. In session, we'll create a safe space of trust and empathy to be able to figure out what best suits you in our work together. We'll dive deeper into your experiences in order to create meaning and understanding. We will work to uncover the root causes of your presenting concerns, becoming curious about the patterns in your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions to foster insight.
If you experience obsessive worry and ritualized behavior and think OCD may present, I am here to help.
Life can be so hard at times that it impacts our ability to cope and create change. Behaviors that may have brought relief in the past no longer work which can leave us feeling stuck and disconnected from the life we want to live. So often the stories we tell ourself lead to increased struggles with self esteem, perfectionism, and stress. My goal is to help you better understand your actions, notice the narratives that have been internalized and work with you to rewrite these stories so you can live a more present and authentic life.
If you experience obsessive worry and ritualized behavior and think OCD may present, I am here to help.
Life can be so hard at times that it impacts our ability to cope and create change. Behaviors that may have brought relief in the past no longer work which can leave us feeling stuck and disconnected from the life we want to live. So often the stories we tell ourself lead to increased struggles with self esteem, perfectionism, and stress. My goal is to help you better understand your actions, notice the narratives that have been internalized and work with you to rewrite these stories so you can live a more present and authentic life.
In much of my work, I use cognitive and exposure-based therapies to help people with anxiety, panic and OCD, including Inference-based CBT (ICBT), DBT and ERP.
It's normal to be going through a hard time. But if you haven’t yet discovered what helps you manage your unique stressors, relationships, and boundaries, then life likely feels so much harder than it needs to. If you're feeling stuck, having an outside perspective can help you see different paths through a difficult terrain. Whether your troubles stem from internal or external issues, I know that by creating a warm and reflective space where we explore your worries, challenges, and motivations, you can find places of relief and even joy.
In much of my work, I use cognitive and exposure-based therapies to help people with anxiety, panic and OCD, including Inference-based CBT (ICBT), DBT and ERP.
It's normal to be going through a hard time. But if you haven’t yet discovered what helps you manage your unique stressors, relationships, and boundaries, then life likely feels so much harder than it needs to. If you're feeling stuck, having an outside perspective can help you see different paths through a difficult terrain. Whether your troubles stem from internal or external issues, I know that by creating a warm and reflective space where we explore your worries, challenges, and motivations, you can find places of relief and even joy.
As a therapist specializing in Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, I am here to support you in learning to detach from those patterns to be able to move towards a free and values-driven life.
I received a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia in Psychology and a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and am licensed in both DC and Maryland. I am trained in several evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including ACT, DBT, CBT, Grief and Trauma Interventions, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
As a therapist specializing in Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, I am here to support you in learning to detach from those patterns to be able to move towards a free and values-driven life.
I received a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia in Psychology and a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and am licensed in both DC and Maryland. I am trained in several evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including ACT, DBT, CBT, Grief and Trauma Interventions, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD or depression?
Anxiety and OCD are two of our specialty areas, and we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and ERP to treat them, respectively. We have an OCD expert, Sophie Bauer, LICSW, as well as an EMDR therapist, Yvany Peery, LICSW, who treats trauma and PTSD. Michelle Lawlor, LPC, specializes in substance abuse and runs our popular Young Adult Anxiety Group.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD or depression?
Anxiety and OCD are two of our specialty areas, and we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and ERP to treat them, respectively. We have an OCD expert, Sophie Bauer, LICSW, as well as an EMDR therapist, Yvany Peery, LICSW, who treats trauma and PTSD. Michelle Lawlor, LPC, specializes in substance abuse and runs our popular Young Adult Anxiety Group.
Dunn specializes in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity).
As a part of the counseling process, Dr. Dunn draws upon clients' strengths to help them develop new perspectives and gain skills, such as mindfulness, self-compassion, and grounding. He tailors scientifically-supported approaches to the unique situation of each client.
Dunn specializes in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity).
As a part of the counseling process, Dr. Dunn draws upon clients' strengths to help them develop new perspectives and gain skills, such as mindfulness, self-compassion, and grounding. He tailors scientifically-supported approaches to the unique situation of each client.
Schwartz is a psychologist with many specialties including anxiety ( OCD, GAD, Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety), depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Schwartz believes in the importance of providing evidence-based treatments that can be adapted to fit the individual goals and needs of each person. He was trained as a scientist practitioner and has worked as a clinician on several NIH-funded treatment studies for PTSD and eating disorders.
Schwartz is a psychologist with many specialties including anxiety ( OCD, GAD, Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety), depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Schwartz believes in the importance of providing evidence-based treatments that can be adapted to fit the individual goals and needs of each person. He was trained as a scientist practitioner and has worked as a clinician on several NIH-funded treatment studies for PTSD and eating disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who sees adolescent and adult clients for individual and couples therapy. I take an integrative CBT approach utilizing empirically supported treatments and focus on mood and anxiety disorders with specific clinical and research interests in depression, general anxiety, trauma, OCD, and mindfulness meditation. I specialize in treating eating disorders, body image, and self-esteem concerns. Therapy is a collaborative approach- with kindness and compassion we build trust and work together as a team to relieve symptoms and meet your goals for therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who sees adolescent and adult clients for individual and couples therapy. I take an integrative CBT approach utilizing empirically supported treatments and focus on mood and anxiety disorders with specific clinical and research interests in depression, general anxiety, trauma, OCD, and mindfulness meditation. I specialize in treating eating disorders, body image, and self-esteem concerns. Therapy is a collaborative approach- with kindness and compassion we build trust and work together as a team to relieve symptoms and meet your goals for therapy.
I most often work with people who are experiencing mood or anxiety concerns, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD) symptoms, life transitions, and relationship issues.
It is of the utmost importance that you feel safe and supported in our work together. I use a warm, empathic, and flexible approach to tailor services for each person. I offer in person appointments in downtown Washington DC and virtual appointments.
I most often work with people who are experiencing mood or anxiety concerns, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD) symptoms, life transitions, and relationship issues.
It is of the utmost importance that you feel safe and supported in our work together. I use a warm, empathic, and flexible approach to tailor services for each person. I offer in person appointments in downtown Washington DC and virtual appointments.
I specialize in treating anxiety and OCD and co-occurring problems, including ADHD and depression.
I customize my approach with clients to align with the unique needs of each person, such that our work together is a tailored and personalized experience. I also utilize research-based methodologies (including CBT, ACT, and ERP), ensuring that my work with clients is firmly grounded in the most current and effective practices.
I specialize in treating anxiety and OCD and co-occurring problems, including ADHD and depression.
I customize my approach with clients to align with the unique needs of each person, such that our work together is a tailored and personalized experience. I also utilize research-based methodologies (including CBT, ACT, and ERP), ensuring that my work with clients is firmly grounded in the most current and effective practices.
We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults with anxiety and OCD.
We want you to walk away with the strategies and techniques needed to handle ALL of life's stresses. And we can help you to learn the skills to do just that! But we don't want you to be in therapy with us for years. So our focus is to provide you with the tools to become your own therapist, so you can move forward feeling confident, balanced & empowered.
We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults with anxiety and OCD.
We want you to walk away with the strategies and techniques needed to handle ALL of life's stresses. And we can help you to learn the skills to do just that! But we don't want you to be in therapy with us for years. So our focus is to provide you with the tools to become your own therapist, so you can move forward feeling confident, balanced & empowered.
I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, phobias (ex. fear of flying), sleep or insomnia, trauma, and career concerns.
I collaborate with clients to understand unhelpful patterns that cause distress. Once identified, we work together from a strengths-based perspective to make beneficial changes to bring more satisfaction in your life and relationships. Clients can expect a good combination of empathic listening and active feedback as I support them in achieving their goals.
I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, phobias (ex. fear of flying), sleep or insomnia, trauma, and career concerns.
I collaborate with clients to understand unhelpful patterns that cause distress. Once identified, we work together from a strengths-based perspective to make beneficial changes to bring more satisfaction in your life and relationships. Clients can expect a good combination of empathic listening and active feedback as I support them in achieving their goals.
You do not need to have an eating disorder for us to work together, I also work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, trauma, relationships, and identity.
I use a narrative therapeutic lens to explore life experiences that have contributed to varying different issues and work together with you to help identify and challenge patterns that are no longer serving you. I also implement Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for practical coping skills to use in the day to day.
You do not need to have an eating disorder for us to work together, I also work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, trauma, relationships, and identity.
I use a narrative therapeutic lens to explore life experiences that have contributed to varying different issues and work together with you to help identify and challenge patterns that are no longer serving you. I also implement Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for practical coping skills to use in the day to day.
My expertise lies in working with clients struggling with Anxiety, OCD, and Eating Disorders.
Choosing the right therapist is critical to achieving real results. I strive to create a compassionate and safe space where you can realize your strengths and full potential. At the same time, I use an honest and direct approach to help you achieve your goals. I work with children, teens, and adults in individual therapy and also offer parent coaching. My ultimate goal is for you to leave therapy feeling empowered, confident, and armed with the tools you need to create a life you love. I feel privileged in helping my clients on their journey to creating healthier relationships with themselves and others.
My expertise lies in working with clients struggling with Anxiety, OCD, and Eating Disorders.
Choosing the right therapist is critical to achieving real results. I strive to create a compassionate and safe space where you can realize your strengths and full potential. At the same time, I use an honest and direct approach to help you achieve your goals. I work with children, teens, and adults in individual therapy and also offer parent coaching. My ultimate goal is for you to leave therapy feeling empowered, confident, and armed with the tools you need to create a life you love. I feel privileged in helping my clients on their journey to creating healthier relationships with themselves and others.
My areas of clinical focus include depression, anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias), relationship challenges, spirituality, life transitions, OCD, multicultural counseling, cultural adjustments and education/career concerns.
You have the power to heal, grow, and thrive. & I can help! As a clinical therapist, it’s my privilege to hold space for clients as they unpack areas of concern, increase self-awareness, restore balance, and identify strengths they can cultivate to create sustainable change. My clientele come from diverse walks of life. Many are working professionals who are struggling to keep up with the busy demands of life and now feel ready to explore areas they are stuck.
My areas of clinical focus include depression, anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias), relationship challenges, spirituality, life transitions, OCD, multicultural counseling, cultural adjustments and education/career concerns.
You have the power to heal, grow, and thrive. & I can help! As a clinical therapist, it’s my privilege to hold space for clients as they unpack areas of concern, increase self-awareness, restore balance, and identify strengths they can cultivate to create sustainable change. My clientele come from diverse walks of life. Many are working professionals who are struggling to keep up with the busy demands of life and now feel ready to explore areas they are stuck.
I also teach at Georgetown Hospital and the George Washington University, as well as serve on the OCD Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Board.
My primary methods of treatment are: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and brief and solution-focused therapy. These methods are active treatment methods. Practical skills are taught that are carried forward when treatment concludes. I also have background in behavioral medicine, marriage and family therapy, and neuropsychological and psychological testing.
I also teach at Georgetown Hospital and the George Washington University, as well as serve on the OCD Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Board.
My primary methods of treatment are: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and brief and solution-focused therapy. These methods are active treatment methods. Practical skills are taught that are carried forward when treatment concludes. I also have background in behavioral medicine, marriage and family therapy, and neuropsychological and psychological testing.
Doshi specializes in the treating of eating disorders, body image concerns, behavioral weight management, pre & post bariatric counseling, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, and multicultural and identity-related concerns.
Dr. Doshi provides a warm, empathic, and welcoming environment free of judgement. In therapy, you will feel supported and validated. She provides therapy via telehealth and at her office in the Eastern Market area of DC and Ballston area of Arlington, VA.
Doshi specializes in the treating of eating disorders, body image concerns, behavioral weight management, pre & post bariatric counseling, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, and multicultural and identity-related concerns.
Dr. Doshi provides a warm, empathic, and welcoming environment free of judgement. In therapy, you will feel supported and validated. She provides therapy via telehealth and at her office in the Eastern Market area of DC and Ballston area of Arlington, VA.
See more therapy options for Washington
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.