Photo of Emily Plank, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Plank
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
West Point, GA 31833
I consider it an honor to walk with people towards wholeness as he/she/they work on traumas associated with safety/security, identity, family, sexuality, faith (or deconstruction of faith) and unhealthy relationships. It is my hope to help each of my clients live freely, bravely and boldly as their true selves. I meet people where they are and guide them in both identifying and achieving their personal goals moving forward. I recognize the importance of community, connection and safety and help clients to set boundaries and find resources in order for these needs to be met along the way.
I consider it an honor to walk with people towards wholeness as he/she/they work on traumas associated with safety/security, identity, family, sexuality, faith (or deconstruction of faith) and unhealthy relationships. It is my hope to help each of my clients live freely, bravely and boldly as their true selves. I meet people where they are and guide them in both identifying and achieving their personal goals moving forward. I recognize the importance of community, connection and safety and help clients to set boundaries and find resources in order for these needs to be met along the way.
(334) 402-4928 View (334) 402-4928

Online Therapists

Photo of Alexandra Gray, APC, Counselor
Alexandra Gray
Counselor, APC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30082
Alexandra Gray is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who began practicing in Georgia in 2022. Her main focus areas are Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, and the LGBTQIA community. A significant portion of her practice deals with navigating complexities and liminal spaces around neurodivergence and alternative lifestyles (the "Standard Issue Model Society vs. Specialty Model Human" conundrum); the road from religious trauma to found family; OCD; Shame and Self-Esteem; and the yearning to chase Emotionally Unavailable Families.
Alexandra Gray is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who began practicing in Georgia in 2022. Her main focus areas are Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, and the LGBTQIA community. A significant portion of her practice deals with navigating complexities and liminal spaces around neurodivergence and alternative lifestyles (the "Standard Issue Model Society vs. Specialty Model Human" conundrum); the road from religious trauma to found family; OCD; Shame and Self-Esteem; and the yearning to chase Emotionally Unavailable Families.
(404) 418-4112 View (404) 418-4112
Photo of Marylynn M. P. Mohr, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marylynn M. P. Mohr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lithonia, GA 30058
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia with eight years of experience. I work with a wide array of clients; from survivors of trauma to those struggling with anxiety, coping skills, depression, obsessive-compulsive (OCD), stress, trauma and PTSD, adolescents/teens, dual diagnosis, life transitions, self-esteem, and self-harming. I utilize a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I also offer parenting assistance to parents struggling with their children's behaviors. I believe the whole family benefits from progress in therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia with eight years of experience. I work with a wide array of clients; from survivors of trauma to those struggling with anxiety, coping skills, depression, obsessive-compulsive (OCD), stress, trauma and PTSD, adolescents/teens, dual diagnosis, life transitions, self-esteem, and self-harming. I utilize a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I also offer parenting assistance to parents struggling with their children's behaviors. I believe the whole family benefits from progress in therapy.
(470) 252-4385 View (470) 252-4385
Photo of Haley Reese, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Haley Reese
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306
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 Mary Ablett - Mary Ablett, PhD, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ablett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30327
Dr. Mary Ablett has over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults using cognitive-behavioral techniques for a wide range of problems. Dr. Ablett specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders, particularly Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, Separation Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and childhood behavioral problems. She also specializes in treatment for stress-related disorders and is particularly interested in early intervention for adolescents and young adults who are experiencing difficult life transitions.
Dr. Mary Ablett has over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults using cognitive-behavioral techniques for a wide range of problems. Dr. Ablett specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders, particularly Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, Separation Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and childhood behavioral problems. She also specializes in treatment for stress-related disorders and is particularly interested in early intervention for adolescents and young adults who are experiencing difficult life transitions.
(404) 990-4609 View (404) 990-4609
Photo of Pat Drerup-Cotter - Pat Drerup-Cotter, M.S., Ed.S., LPC, NCC, MS, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pat Drerup-Cotter, M.S., Ed.S.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, EdS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329
She specializes in anxiety disorders, inclusive of Generalized Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Attacks, Social Anxiety and Social Phobia.
Therapy is a process that can be an extremely rewarding journey in your life. We currently live in an anxiety-producing society and it’s easy to forget that our purpose is a path of self-actualization, or to be our best selves.
She specializes in anxiety disorders, inclusive of Generalized Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Attacks, Social Anxiety and Social Phobia.
Therapy is a process that can be an extremely rewarding journey in your life. We currently live in an anxiety-producing society and it’s easy to forget that our purpose is a path of self-actualization, or to be our best selves.
(404) 402-2176 View (404) 402-2176
Photo of Heather Forward, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Forward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30044  (Online Only)
I've completed specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD.
Has anxiety or OCD taken a starring role your life? You have aspirations but they fall victim to doubts: “what ifs,” catastrophes, fear of judgement, panic. Or maybe compulsions are preventing you from engaging the way you want to. I can help you kick anxiety to the back seat so you can accomplish your goals and achieve the peace you deserve.
I've completed specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD.
Has anxiety or OCD taken a starring role your life? You have aspirations but they fall victim to doubts: “what ifs,” catastrophes, fear of judgement, panic. Or maybe compulsions are preventing you from engaging the way you want to. I can help you kick anxiety to the back seat so you can accomplish your goals and achieve the peace you deserve.
(678) 607-9452 View (678) 607-9452
Photo of Alisha Garcia, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alisha Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include generalized and social anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, relationship issues, family issues, cultural issues, and career counseling.
Do you struggle with overthinking, self doubt, or lacking trust in yourself? Do you often feel like an "imposter" and feel like everyone else knows exactly what they are doing but you feel lost? Are you a perfectionist who never feels good enough or like you are never accomplishing enough? Do feelings of low self confidence hinder you from believing in yourself and trusting your abilities? These are often signs of anxiety arising and keeping us stuck and unhappy.
My areas of expertise include generalized and social anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, relationship issues, family issues, cultural issues, and career counseling.
Do you struggle with overthinking, self doubt, or lacking trust in yourself? Do you often feel like an "imposter" and feel like everyone else knows exactly what they are doing but you feel lost? Are you a perfectionist who never feels good enough or like you are never accomplishing enough? Do feelings of low self confidence hinder you from believing in yourself and trusting your abilities? These are often signs of anxiety arising and keeping us stuck and unhappy.
(678) 203-9183 View (678) 203-9183
Photo of Robi Lipscomb, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robi Lipscomb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
I have been a licensed therapist for over 10 years working with a wide range of client diagnosis including anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar, adjustment disorders, addictions and more. I am a certified sex therapist with training in sexual identity disorder, gender identity disorder, sexual medical issues, sex addiction and more. I have worked with the LBGTQ+ community for over 10 years. I especially enjoy working with OCD, anxiety, Bipolar and LBGTQ+ related issues with positive outcomes in each of these areas. I work virtually. I do not see clients in person.
I have been a licensed therapist for over 10 years working with a wide range of client diagnosis including anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar, adjustment disorders, addictions and more. I am a certified sex therapist with training in sexual identity disorder, gender identity disorder, sexual medical issues, sex addiction and more. I have worked with the LBGTQ+ community for over 10 years. I especially enjoy working with OCD, anxiety, Bipolar and LBGTQ+ related issues with positive outcomes in each of these areas. I work virtually. I do not see clients in person.
(678) 551-7814 View (678) 551-7814
Photo of Keren Drits, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keren Drits
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I specialize in anxiety disorders & OCD, divorce and blended family issues, school related issues, and behavioral issues.
Welcome! My practice is open during early EVENING hours to accommodate after school schedules. I have been fortunate to have 19 years of counseling experience in both the school setting and the private sector, working with children ranging in ages 5-18, adults, and with families. While working with children and adolescents, I believe that the family dynamic is an extremely important part of the therapeutic process, and will often involve parents and siblings in therapy when it is helpful. I also work with parents who need support with parenting help in many different scenarios (toddlers to teens).
I specialize in anxiety disorders & OCD, divorce and blended family issues, school related issues, and behavioral issues.
Welcome! My practice is open during early EVENING hours to accommodate after school schedules. I have been fortunate to have 19 years of counseling experience in both the school setting and the private sector, working with children ranging in ages 5-18, adults, and with families. While working with children and adolescents, I believe that the family dynamic is an extremely important part of the therapeutic process, and will often involve parents and siblings in therapy when it is helpful. I also work with parents who need support with parenting help in many different scenarios (toddlers to teens).
(770) 629-8015 View (770) 629-8015
Photo of Dr. Gail N Kemp, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Gail N Kemp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Are you a parent looking for services for your child dealing with anxiety, depression, selective mutism, OCD, phobias, or related concerns? Are you a young adult who is ready to face fear and anxiety head-on so that you can live a life that is more consistent with your goals and values? If you answered "Yes" to either of these questions, then contact Theraframe, LLC for a free 20-minute consultation to see if our services are right for you.
Are you a parent looking for services for your child dealing with anxiety, depression, selective mutism, OCD, phobias, or related concerns? Are you a young adult who is ready to face fear and anxiety head-on so that you can live a life that is more consistent with your goals and values? If you answered "Yes" to either of these questions, then contact Theraframe, LLC for a free 20-minute consultation to see if our services are right for you.
(404) 574-6292 View (404) 574-6292
Photo of Nickesha Douglas, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nickesha Douglas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, offering tailored support and evidence-based interventions such as exposure response prevention (ERP).
Mental illness can be isolating and leave you with doubts about who you are. I have seen this show up in many ways throughout my work with individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, disordered eating and anxiety related disorders. Individuals with OCD might find themselves scared and confused by their thoughts. Most struggle with intrusive images and thoughts that are not aligned with their values and who they know themselves to be. I have worked with individuals for whom their depressive symptoms made it difficult to show up for themselves and their loved ones and complete daily tasks/activities.
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, offering tailored support and evidence-based interventions such as exposure response prevention (ERP).
Mental illness can be isolating and leave you with doubts about who you are. I have seen this show up in many ways throughout my work with individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, disordered eating and anxiety related disorders. Individuals with OCD might find themselves scared and confused by their thoughts. Most struggle with intrusive images and thoughts that are not aligned with their values and who they know themselves to be. I have worked with individuals for whom their depressive symptoms made it difficult to show up for themselves and their loved ones and complete daily tasks/activities.
(470) 228-4555 View (470) 228-4555
Photo of Meredith Eubanks, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Eubanks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
With a focus on anxiety, phobias, OCD, Social Anxiety, I can help you develop skills to face your fears and do the things that matter most to you and connect to the people who matter most.
My ultimate mission is to collaborate with you to help you tap into your existing resources and strengths, build resilience & ultimately a rich, full, and meaningful life. It takes courage to reach out, and I can help you take further steps to be brave, courageous, and bold!
With a focus on anxiety, phobias, OCD, Social Anxiety, I can help you develop skills to face your fears and do the things that matter most to you and connect to the people who matter most.
My ultimate mission is to collaborate with you to help you tap into your existing resources and strengths, build resilience & ultimately a rich, full, and meaningful life. It takes courage to reach out, and I can help you take further steps to be brave, courageous, and bold!
(404) 994-6824 View (404) 994-6824
Photo of Joanna Goulding Kester, LPC, NCC, CBTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Goulding Kester
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CBTS
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, I rely on evidence-based practices like Brainspotting and Mindful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (M-CBT), to help children, adults, and families heal from the past, find stability in the present and hope for the future. My training and experience includes working with the effects of trauma (PTSD) and stressful experiences (e.g. emotional and sexual abuse, affairs, divorce, family conflict, grief, work stress, medical etc). I also work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender and sexuality, OCD, Maternal Mental Health, self-harm, behavior disorders and Insomnia.
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, I rely on evidence-based practices like Brainspotting and Mindful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (M-CBT), to help children, adults, and families heal from the past, find stability in the present and hope for the future. My training and experience includes working with the effects of trauma (PTSD) and stressful experiences (e.g. emotional and sexual abuse, affairs, divorce, family conflict, grief, work stress, medical etc). I also work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender and sexuality, OCD, Maternal Mental Health, self-harm, behavior disorders and Insomnia.
(770) 940-7468 View (770) 940-7468
Photo of Elaine A Thomas, PsyD, Psychologist
Elaine A Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060
Anxiety conditions I work with include: separation anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress disorder, child traumatic grief, distress following single incident traumas such as car accidents and natural disasters, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
Anxiety conditions I work with include: separation anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress disorder, child traumatic grief, distress following single incident traumas such as car accidents and natural disasters, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
(770) 790-0773 View (770) 790-0773
Photo of Jenny Van Overbeke Brooks, PhD, MEd, Psychologist
Jenny Van Overbeke Brooks
Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
I specialize in working with children age 5+, adolescents and their families. Together, we’ll create a plan to navigate family conflict, school performance issues, social difficulties, divorce, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mood dysregulation and behavioral difficulties. For my adult clients, therapeutic issues typically focus on depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship concerns, stress management, self-esteem, marital/relationship discord, and life transitions. For couples considering divorce or divorcing, I have been trained in Collaborative Law Practice.
I specialize in working with children age 5+, adolescents and their families. Together, we’ll create a plan to navigate family conflict, school performance issues, social difficulties, divorce, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mood dysregulation and behavioral difficulties. For my adult clients, therapeutic issues typically focus on depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship concerns, stress management, self-esteem, marital/relationship discord, and life transitions. For couples considering divorce or divorcing, I have been trained in Collaborative Law Practice.
(770) 450-5563 View (770) 450-5563
Photo of Phyllis Williams - Phyllis Williams, LMFT, PC, LMFT, CTHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Phyllis Williams, LMFT, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CTHC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I am licensed psychotherapist with over 24 years of experience. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety (excessive worry and stress), depression (feeling unmotivated, disinterested, and stuck), couples conflict, parent/child issues, OCD, RSD, and ADHD. I have extensive training providing therapy for family and teen/adolescent issues. I work best with individuals, teens, couples, and families who prefer a hands-on and action-oriented psychotherapy approach to promote change. I use cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, person-centered, RRT, and family systems techniques. I work 100% virtually serving patients in Georgia and California.
I am licensed psychotherapist with over 24 years of experience. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety (excessive worry and stress), depression (feeling unmotivated, disinterested, and stuck), couples conflict, parent/child issues, OCD, RSD, and ADHD. I have extensive training providing therapy for family and teen/adolescent issues. I work best with individuals, teens, couples, and families who prefer a hands-on and action-oriented psychotherapy approach to promote change. I use cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, person-centered, RRT, and family systems techniques. I work 100% virtually serving patients in Georgia and California.
(770) 285-1909 View (770) 285-1909
Photo of Arielle Crain, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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 Nicole Iwule, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Nicole Iwule
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norcross, GA 30092  (Online Only)
If you struggle with self-doubt, self-criticism, poor body image, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, high emotional sensitivity, anxiety, perfectionism, or if you struggle to ask for help, or often put yourself last, go ahead and contact me because I have a deep desire to help support you. I believe that you have everything you need already inside of yourself to heal and create the life of your dreams, and I believe in my skilled ability to help you unlock your unique strengths and empower you on your healing journey.
If you struggle with self-doubt, self-criticism, poor body image, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, high emotional sensitivity, anxiety, perfectionism, or if you struggle to ask for help, or often put yourself last, go ahead and contact me because I have a deep desire to help support you. I believe that you have everything you need already inside of yourself to heal and create the life of your dreams, and I believe in my skilled ability to help you unlock your unique strengths and empower you on your healing journey.
(407) 809-1377 View (407) 809-1377
Photo of Katie E Hale, PhD, Psychologist
Katie E Hale
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30327  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating obsessive compulsive, trauma- and anxiety-related disorders by integrating Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) with ACT.
The core component to successful therapy is a warm and trusting relationship. We will begin building this relationship from our very first call where hope and alliance begin to emerge. In therapy, we will integrate evidence-based treatments, clinical expertise, and your preferences to create a personal, culturally responsive, and comprehensive treatment plan. No matter what you are struggling with, be it anxiety, trauma, OCD, relationships, or big life transitions like becoming a parent, my goal is always to help empower you with autonomy, wholeheartedness, and meaningful connection to guide you toward your own values.
I specialize in treating obsessive compulsive, trauma- and anxiety-related disorders by integrating Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) with ACT.
The core component to successful therapy is a warm and trusting relationship. We will begin building this relationship from our very first call where hope and alliance begin to emerge. In therapy, we will integrate evidence-based treatments, clinical expertise, and your preferences to create a personal, culturally responsive, and comprehensive treatment plan. No matter what you are struggling with, be it anxiety, trauma, OCD, relationships, or big life transitions like becoming a parent, my goal is always to help empower you with autonomy, wholeheartedness, and meaningful connection to guide you toward your own values.
(770) 415-5446 View (770) 415-5446

Nearby Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists Searches for West Point

See More Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists
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.