Photo of Joe T Gossage, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Joe T Gossage
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Calhoun, GA 30701
I have had extensive experiences and success with anxiety patients, OCD issues, mood disorder problems, or relationship issues.
My ideal client would be an adult, or older adolescent, with anxiety, anger, mood disorder, or relationship issues. They may have been in therapy before, or this may be their first time working with a therapist. These patients would be motivated and excited about growing and changing their lives in therapy!
I have had extensive experiences and success with anxiety patients, OCD issues, mood disorder problems, or relationship issues.
My ideal client would be an adult, or older adolescent, with anxiety, anger, mood disorder, or relationship issues. They may have been in therapy before, or this may be their first time working with a therapist. These patients would be motivated and excited about growing and changing their lives in therapy!
(706) 203-4632 View (706) 203-4632
Photo of Strategies For Life, LLC, Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Strategies For Life, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Calhoun, GA 30701  (Online Only)
Hello. Looking for a professional who can help you sort out the issues causing you pain, fear, worry, anxiety, grief, & confusion? My practice, Strategies For Life, is located in Cartersville GA. We are conveniently located and just a short drive from the many of the surrounding communities. I have 20+ years of experience in counseling to help people to eliminate emotional distress, find fulfillment and resolve personal challenges. I hold specialization certifications because I have found that different concerns often overlap each other and this allows me to easily transition with my clients from one area to another.
Hello. Looking for a professional who can help you sort out the issues causing you pain, fear, worry, anxiety, grief, & confusion? My practice, Strategies For Life, is located in Cartersville GA. We are conveniently located and just a short drive from the many of the surrounding communities. I have 20+ years of experience in counseling to help people to eliminate emotional distress, find fulfillment and resolve personal challenges. I hold specialization certifications because I have found that different concerns often overlap each other and this allows me to easily transition with my clients from one area to another.
(770) 285-5761 View (770) 285-5761
Photo of Jonathan House, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Jonathan House
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CACII, BSPP, CES, ARBS
Verified Verified
Calhoun, GA 30701
​I have been in the recovery field for 7 years and have seen a wide range of issues related to addiction. Addiction in itself can be a traumatic event as it causes us to go against our morals. Addiction often contributes to shame and can produce anger, anxiety& depression as well as a wide range of other issues. I have created treatment plans for every issue my clients have presented with as related to addiction. Each client has a different set of issues, needs and goals so I take a person-centered approach to best meet those needs. It's important to identify our strengths and capitalize on these rather than focusing on the problem.
​I have been in the recovery field for 7 years and have seen a wide range of issues related to addiction. Addiction in itself can be a traumatic event as it causes us to go against our morals. Addiction often contributes to shame and can produce anger, anxiety& depression as well as a wide range of other issues. I have created treatment plans for every issue my clients have presented with as related to addiction. Each client has a different set of issues, needs and goals so I take a person-centered approach to best meet those needs. It's important to identify our strengths and capitalize on these rather than focusing on the problem.
(470) 517-7747 View (470) 517-7747
Photo of Erin Bennett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calhoun, GA
Erin Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW, BS
Verified Verified
Calhoun, GA 30701  (Online Only)
As a dedicated and empathetic LMSW, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals facing diverse challenges. My expertise extends to addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD management, self-esteem, self-harm, coping, and navigating life transitions. I am passionate about fostering resilience and empowerment. In my practice, I integrate evidence-based approaches, tailoring interventions to each individual's unique needs. I believe in the transformative power of therapy, guiding clients toward self-discovery, healing, and positive change.
As a dedicated and empathetic LMSW, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals facing diverse challenges. My expertise extends to addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD management, self-esteem, self-harm, coping, and navigating life transitions. I am passionate about fostering resilience and empowerment. In my practice, I integrate evidence-based approaches, tailoring interventions to each individual's unique needs. I believe in the transformative power of therapy, guiding clients toward self-discovery, healing, and positive change.
(706) 967-2216 View (706) 967-2216

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Betsy Leamy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Betsy Leamy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Adairsville, GA 30103  (Online Only)
Betsy Leamy is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience helping others to face their challenges, which may include, depression, anxiety, depression, addictions, abuse, trauma, PTSD, anger issues, chronic stress or illness, family conflict, women's issues, and more.
Betsy Leamy is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience helping others to face their challenges, which may include, depression, anxiety, depression, addictions, abuse, trauma, PTSD, anger issues, chronic stress or illness, family conflict, women's issues, and more.
(678) 661-6267 View (678) 661-6267

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Blair Cook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Dr. Blair Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
I specialize in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) and related disorders, Generalized Anxiety, Panic, and Phobias, as well as issues related to stress and life transitions using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness Self-Compassion.
The process of starting or reentering counseling can be overwhelming but a brave step towards improving your wellness. I honor that step by committing myself to show up for you where you are, sit with you in whatever emotion arises, and offer you a safe and relaxed environment to discuss your concerns. As your therapist, I will work with you to collaboratively create a road map to greater health using our alliance and therapeutic tools along the way. We will work together to identify your goals, beliefs, and assets; process life stressors; and empower your life for greater wellness, however you define this.
I specialize in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) and related disorders, Generalized Anxiety, Panic, and Phobias, as well as issues related to stress and life transitions using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness Self-Compassion.
The process of starting or reentering counseling can be overwhelming but a brave step towards improving your wellness. I honor that step by committing myself to show up for you where you are, sit with you in whatever emotion arises, and offer you a safe and relaxed environment to discuss your concerns. As your therapist, I will work with you to collaboratively create a road map to greater health using our alliance and therapeutic tools along the way. We will work together to identify your goals, beliefs, and assets; process life stressors; and empower your life for greater wellness, however you define this.
(470) 260-5341 View (470) 260-5341
Photo of Kristen Balan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calhoun, GA
Kristen Balan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
I'm a seasoned therapist, a mom of three humans and one dog, a sister, daughter, friend, significant other, a feminist, an ally, a Postpartum OCD survivor and a passionate humanitarian, to name a few. My therapeutic stance is compassionate, warm and non judgmental. I have a strong interest in supporting others in working though shame and pain to better embrace their authenticity, imperfections and all. I'm honored to join you in your journey.
I'm a seasoned therapist, a mom of three humans and one dog, a sister, daughter, friend, significant other, a feminist, an ally, a Postpartum OCD survivor and a passionate humanitarian, to name a few. My therapeutic stance is compassionate, warm and non judgmental. I have a strong interest in supporting others in working though shame and pain to better embrace their authenticity, imperfections and all. I'm honored to join you in your journey.
(463) 208-4478 View (463) 208-4478
Photo of Alexandra Bruns, Pre-Licensed Professional in Calhoun, GA
Alexandra Bruns
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, GA 30504
Hey there! It's Alexandra. I'm glad you're here! I'm a big believer that healing comes in the context of relationship. As a therapist, I desire to create space for my clients to experience the warmth of relational connection and wonder for their life. I would be especially honored to work with your preschool and elementary kiddos utilizing play therapy techniques. I also very much enjoy working with preteens, teenagers, and young adult women, particularly those who are struggling to find purpose, navigate life transitions, and those who feel stuck in dealing with depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies.
Hey there! It's Alexandra. I'm glad you're here! I'm a big believer that healing comes in the context of relationship. As a therapist, I desire to create space for my clients to experience the warmth of relational connection and wonder for their life. I would be especially honored to work with your preschool and elementary kiddos utilizing play therapy techniques. I also very much enjoy working with preteens, teenagers, and young adult women, particularly those who are struggling to find purpose, navigate life transitions, and those who feel stuck in dealing with depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies.
(678) 909-1570 View (678) 909-1570
Photo of Arielle Crain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Arielle Crain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
Welcome! I am so encouraged that you are here. I enjoy assisting adolescent and adult women who are struggling with issues related to self-esteem, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, body image, trauma, sexual assault survivors, grief, and relationship issues. I provide client-centered therapy and believe that successful treatment begins with building a strong client-therapist relationship. From this secure base, I can support you in working through pain towards growth and change. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process defined by trust, safety, warmth, empathy, and unconditional acceptance.
Welcome! I am so encouraged that you are here. I enjoy assisting adolescent and adult women who are struggling with issues related to self-esteem, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, body image, trauma, sexual assault survivors, grief, and relationship issues. I provide client-centered therapy and believe that successful treatment begins with building a strong client-therapist relationship. From this secure base, I can support you in working through pain towards growth and change. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process defined by trust, safety, warmth, empathy, and unconditional acceptance.
(704) 810-2128 View (704) 810-2128
Photo of G. Hamilton Von Wiegand, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
G. Hamilton Von Wiegand
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
There is a life worth living, but you are probably feeling stuck right now. Maybe you have tried therapy before and haven't had much luck, or maybe you've been struggling on your own for a long time. I'm here to get you UNSTUCK and moving towards that life worth living! I enjoy working with the following issues: substance, sexual, and other addictions, trauma, anxiety and OCD disorders, depression, chronic issues that haven't responded to traditional talk therapy, and issues that don't fit into a typical "diagnosis." or clinical label. I love helping my clients live by their deepest values and do what's most important to them.
There is a life worth living, but you are probably feeling stuck right now. Maybe you have tried therapy before and haven't had much luck, or maybe you've been struggling on your own for a long time. I'm here to get you UNSTUCK and moving towards that life worth living! I enjoy working with the following issues: substance, sexual, and other addictions, trauma, anxiety and OCD disorders, depression, chronic issues that haven't responded to traditional talk therapy, and issues that don't fit into a typical "diagnosis." or clinical label. I love helping my clients live by their deepest values and do what's most important to them.
(678) 839-9689 View (678) 839-9689
Photo of Lee Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Lee Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I hope you find help and relief for what you are seeking counseling for. My name is Lee Jackson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. I have practiced privately for nine years, specializing in anxiety, depression, life changes, spiritual issues, grief and loss relationship/couples counseling. I enjoy providing tools for clients that help manage their Anxiety and OCD. I have a particular interest in these areas . My background is in school counseling, I've logged many years with students and parents providing therapy to those across many different age demographics.
I hope you find help and relief for what you are seeking counseling for. My name is Lee Jackson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. I have practiced privately for nine years, specializing in anxiety, depression, life changes, spiritual issues, grief and loss relationship/couples counseling. I enjoy providing tools for clients that help manage their Anxiety and OCD. I have a particular interest in these areas . My background is in school counseling, I've logged many years with students and parents providing therapy to those across many different age demographics.
(762) 221-5392 View (762) 221-5392
Photo of Danielle Miller Hajdini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calhoun, GA
Danielle Miller Hajdini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy for women who may be experiencing anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression or a postpartum anxiety disorder.
Most people are doing the best they know how to do and as a therapist it is my job to meet you wherever you may be in that journey. Given the right support, anyone can learn strategies and techniques to undo negative thoughts, overwhelming feelings and destructive behaviors. In addition to teaching you new coping skills, my holistic work emphasizes lifestyle modification as an integral piece of the mental wellness puzzle. It's a modern approach highlighting nutrition, sleep, movement, and social connections. With compassion and respect, we will work together to form an actionable plan that leads you to sustainable wellness.
I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy for women who may be experiencing anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression or a postpartum anxiety disorder.
Most people are doing the best they know how to do and as a therapist it is my job to meet you wherever you may be in that journey. Given the right support, anyone can learn strategies and techniques to undo negative thoughts, overwhelming feelings and destructive behaviors. In addition to teaching you new coping skills, my holistic work emphasizes lifestyle modification as an integral piece of the mental wellness puzzle. It's a modern approach highlighting nutrition, sleep, movement, and social connections. With compassion and respect, we will work together to form an actionable plan that leads you to sustainable wellness.
(470) 431-4916 View (470) 431-4916
Photo of Stephanie Landrum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Stephanie Landrum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
My clients are adults and older teens that feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed from debilitating anxiety, OCD, and life transitions/adjustments.
Do you find yourself laying awake at night thinking about your to-do list, worries, or replaying events from the day and need a break? Maybe you've tried ALL the things with no relief. With anxiety disorders, taking the lead as the most common mental health condition in the United States, you're not alone and I can help. Grab yourself a cup of tea or coffee and let's talk.
My clients are adults and older teens that feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed from debilitating anxiety, OCD, and life transitions/adjustments.
Do you find yourself laying awake at night thinking about your to-do list, worries, or replaying events from the day and need a break? Maybe you've tried ALL the things with no relief. With anxiety disorders, taking the lead as the most common mental health condition in the United States, you're not alone and I can help. Grab yourself a cup of tea or coffee and let's talk.
(678) 257-7076 View (678) 257-7076
Photo of Haley Reese, Pre-Licensed Professional in Calhoun, GA
Haley Reese
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606
Life can be filled with a lot of difficulty but it doesn’t need to be so overwhelming or confusing! If you feel numb, overwhelmed, or sad for no reason, then you are not alone. Finding relief and peace in these struggles is possible through therapy. As a therapist I believe in being a friend and a guide by providing tools to improve mental health, coping skills, opportunities to process emotions/events, and even space for venting if needed. I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and work primarily with adolescents and young adults who have/had experienced depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, sexual abuse, grief, and religious trauma.
Life can be filled with a lot of difficulty but it doesn’t need to be so overwhelming or confusing! If you feel numb, overwhelmed, or sad for no reason, then you are not alone. Finding relief and peace in these struggles is possible through therapy. As a therapist I believe in being a friend and a guide by providing tools to improve mental health, coping skills, opportunities to process emotions/events, and even space for venting if needed. I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and work primarily with adolescents and young adults who have/had experienced depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, sexual abuse, grief, and religious trauma.
(706) 740-4082 View (706) 740-4082
Photo of Dr. Brian J Smith, Psychologist in Calhoun, GA
Dr. Brian J Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339  (Online Only)
Welcome! I understand that therapy may be a new experience for you and strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental, and accepting environment. My goal is to help you to grow and change with compassionate yet challenging solution-based therapy. My clinical training and years of experience have prepared me to successfully help adults, college students, and couples on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, panic attacks, OCD, relationships, family-of-origin issues, assertiveness, boundaries, self-esteem, anger management, trauma, infidelity, communication, conflict resolution, emotional intimacy, and difficulty with transitions.
Welcome! I understand that therapy may be a new experience for you and strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental, and accepting environment. My goal is to help you to grow and change with compassionate yet challenging solution-based therapy. My clinical training and years of experience have prepared me to successfully help adults, college students, and couples on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, panic attacks, OCD, relationships, family-of-origin issues, assertiveness, boundaries, self-esteem, anger management, trauma, infidelity, communication, conflict resolution, emotional intimacy, and difficulty with transitions.
(770) 953-4744 x44 View (770) 953-4744 x44
Photo of I Am Love Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
I Am Love Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia working with a wide variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, grief, etc. I do take an active role in the counseling process as I work collectively with the client to navigate the presented concerns and create tangible goals to make life more manageable. I believe we develop psychological stress due to the inability to truly be who we are meant to be because we seek and desire belonging believing that we need to be who someone else wants us to be.
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia working with a wide variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, grief, etc. I do take an active role in the counseling process as I work collectively with the client to navigate the presented concerns and create tangible goals to make life more manageable. I believe we develop psychological stress due to the inability to truly be who we are meant to be because we seek and desire belonging believing that we need to be who someone else wants us to be.
(678) 653-2311 View (678) 653-2311
Photo of Rachelle Tonwar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Rachelle Tonwar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
OCD-GAD-PMADS - Are you an over-thinker? Do your thoughts have a way of consuming your mind? Do you treat these thoughts as facts? Do your thoughts and emotions sometimes feel like a blazing fire that is out of control interfering with your relationships, work & all of the things and people important to you? Does loneliness seem to stop by uninvited insisting on a seat at your table? Is your self-worth on a never ending rollercoaster attached to life’s ups and downs? If you answered yes to any of these; you are not alone & you are not broken. You-Are-Human. You deserve hope & healing. You deserve to invest in your mental health.
OCD-GAD-PMADS - Are you an over-thinker? Do your thoughts have a way of consuming your mind? Do you treat these thoughts as facts? Do your thoughts and emotions sometimes feel like a blazing fire that is out of control interfering with your relationships, work & all of the things and people important to you? Does loneliness seem to stop by uninvited insisting on a seat at your table? Is your self-worth on a never ending rollercoaster attached to life’s ups and downs? If you answered yes to any of these; you are not alone & you are not broken. You-Are-Human. You deserve hope & healing. You deserve to invest in your mental health.
(470) 468-5394 View (470) 468-5394
Photo of Dr. Meenaxi Palaniappan, Psychologist in Calhoun, GA
Dr. Meenaxi Palaniappan
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
abuse, complex trauma, race/identity-based trauma), immigrant stress, OCD, disordered eating, and adjustment difficulties (life transitions, fertility/pregnancy/postpartum, grief).
Reaching out to a therapist is hard. So first, take a moment to commend yourself for prioritizing your wellbeing - it is difficult, even for me as a therapist! I believe that we all have a desire for genuine relational connection. However, our past experiences (eg. oppression, trauma, relational disconnections) inform our strategies of survival (eg. perfectionism, addiction, avoidance), which paradoxically leave us feeling dysregulated, isolated, or stuck in painful relationships. I see therapy as a space where you and I can co-create an open & authentic relationship, which will help us explore and heal your current life stressors.
abuse, complex trauma, race/identity-based trauma), immigrant stress, OCD, disordered eating, and adjustment difficulties (life transitions, fertility/pregnancy/postpartum, grief).
Reaching out to a therapist is hard. So first, take a moment to commend yourself for prioritizing your wellbeing - it is difficult, even for me as a therapist! I believe that we all have a desire for genuine relational connection. However, our past experiences (eg. oppression, trauma, relational disconnections) inform our strategies of survival (eg. perfectionism, addiction, avoidance), which paradoxically leave us feeling dysregulated, isolated, or stuck in painful relationships. I see therapy as a space where you and I can co-create an open & authentic relationship, which will help us explore and heal your current life stressors.
(404) 328-7061 View (404) 328-7061
Photo of Stacey O'Neil Kitchens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Stacey O'Neil Kitchens
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, AMS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Covington, GA 30014
I see clients who seek counseling for a broad range of reasons, including: *Relationship and family issues, pre-marital counseling, marital conflicts, intimacy and attachment issues, sexual issues, addiction and codependency concerns, infidelity, divorce recovery, blended families, communication skills, adolescent development, academic problems, family relationships, parenting skills and training. *Growth Counseling: grief and loss, career transitions, interviewing skills, employment issues, professional development, life transitions *Health and Wellness: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress issues, weight issues, eating disorders, trauma and abuse recovery, alcohol and substance abuse recovery, adult children of alcoholic (ACoA) issues
I see clients who seek counseling for a broad range of reasons, including: *Relationship and family issues, pre-marital counseling, marital conflicts, intimacy and attachment issues, sexual issues, addiction and codependency concerns, infidelity, divorce recovery, blended families, communication skills, adolescent development, academic problems, family relationships, parenting skills and training. *Growth Counseling: grief and loss, career transitions, interviewing skills, employment issues, professional development, life transitions *Health and Wellness: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress issues, weight issues, eating disorders, trauma and abuse recovery, alcohol and substance abuse recovery, adult children of alcoholic (ACoA) issues
(404) 566-9417 View (404) 566-9417
Photo of Christian Waller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Calhoun, GA
Christian Waller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
Hello everyone, my name is Christian Waller and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience. I have provided both individual and group therapeutic services to children, teens, and adults. Although my primary focus is working with processing trauma and reducing the effects of traumatic stress, I have experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, concerns with discovering/exploring sexuality and/or gender expression, addictions, and other areas that individuals would like to process in our therapeutic relationship.
Hello everyone, my name is Christian Waller and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience. I have provided both individual and group therapeutic services to children, teens, and adults. Although my primary focus is working with processing trauma and reducing the effects of traumatic stress, I have experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, concerns with discovering/exploring sexuality and/or gender expression, addictions, and other areas that individuals would like to process in our therapeutic relationship.
(678) 990-9257 View (678) 990-9257
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.