Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Changes Psychological Services, PLLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC specializes in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and mood disorders, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. CBT is an evidence-based, solution-focused and goal-oriented treatment, which focuses primarily on the here-and-now.
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC specializes in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and mood disorders, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. CBT is an evidence-based, solution-focused and goal-oriented treatment, which focuses primarily on the here-and-now.
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Photo of Mind Body Health, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Mind Body Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
At Mind Body Health, we have psychologists who specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, insomnia, weight management and depression. We also have dietitians who work with you to help you achieve optimal health. We have a strong understanding of how your physical health and diet affect your mental health and vice versa. We use approaches based in research and tailor our interventions to each individual.
At Mind Body Health, we have psychologists who specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, insomnia, weight management and depression. We also have dietitians who work with you to help you achieve optimal health. We have a strong understanding of how your physical health and diet affect your mental health and vice versa. We use approaches based in research and tailor our interventions to each individual.
(571) 297-1870 View (571) 297-1870
Photo of Tishanna Hollins, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Tishanna Hollins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
Dr. Hollins specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, OCD, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD/trauma, racial/ethnic/cultural-related concerns, and depression. Dr. Hollins combines evidence based treatments with a sense of compassion, collaboration, and a nonjudgemental approach.
Dr. Hollins specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, OCD, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD/trauma, racial/ethnic/cultural-related concerns, and depression. Dr. Hollins combines evidence based treatments with a sense of compassion, collaboration, and a nonjudgemental approach.
(571) 568-7141 View (571) 568-7141
Photo of Rachel Yutzy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rachel Yutzy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS , LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I am also specialized in OCD treatment.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages in individual, family, and group contexts. My practice is rooted in compassion and collaboration with clients and families, and I am experienced in working with clients through the lifespan regarding anxiety, OCD, trauma, and grief related issues. I excel in building a strong therapeutic relationship and believe this is the foundation of change and personal growth. I approach sessions with empathy and creativity, helping my clients as they learn to manage difficult emotions, navigate life’s many challenges, and cultivate healthy relationships.
I am also specialized in OCD treatment.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages in individual, family, and group contexts. My practice is rooted in compassion and collaboration with clients and families, and I am experienced in working with clients through the lifespan regarding anxiety, OCD, trauma, and grief related issues. I excel in building a strong therapeutic relationship and believe this is the foundation of change and personal growth. I approach sessions with empathy and creativity, helping my clients as they learn to manage difficult emotions, navigate life’s many challenges, and cultivate healthy relationships.
(844) 719-3413 View (844) 719-3413
Photo of Frances Rekrut, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Frances Rekrut
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Compassionate therapy has the power to help people reflect, grow, and change. Using a warm and engaging approach, I collaborate with clients to develop treatment strategies that work based on research-based techniques. I specialize in working with clients struggling with relationship issues, OCD, grief and loss, and difficult life transitions, including changes in roles or identity.
Compassionate therapy has the power to help people reflect, grow, and change. Using a warm and engaging approach, I collaborate with clients to develop treatment strategies that work based on research-based techniques. I specialize in working with clients struggling with relationship issues, OCD, grief and loss, and difficult life transitions, including changes in roles or identity.
(202) 759-7878 View (202) 759-7878
Photo of Stephanie Woodrow, Counselor in Washington, DC
Stephanie Woodrow
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My areas of expertise are: Anxiety Disorders (Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety, Illness Anxiety); Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders (OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding, Trichotillomania, Excoriation); and Tic Disorders (Tourette's, Motor/Vocal Tic Disorder).
Anxiety is a normal emotion. Without it, we wouldn't prepare for job interviews, study for tests, or move out of the way of an oncoming car. But for some, anxiety becomes overwhelming & interferes with daily living. When anxiety becomes maladaptive it can be distressing, scary & embarrassing. The good news is anxiety disorders are treatable. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder & related problems from a cognitive behavioral perspective. My goal is to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their individual goals, and live full & productive lives.
My areas of expertise are: Anxiety Disorders (Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety, Illness Anxiety); Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders (OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding, Trichotillomania, Excoriation); and Tic Disorders (Tourette's, Motor/Vocal Tic Disorder).
Anxiety is a normal emotion. Without it, we wouldn't prepare for job interviews, study for tests, or move out of the way of an oncoming car. But for some, anxiety becomes overwhelming & interferes with daily living. When anxiety becomes maladaptive it can be distressing, scary & embarrassing. The good news is anxiety disorders are treatable. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder & related problems from a cognitive behavioral perspective. My goal is to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their individual goals, and live full & productive lives.
(202) 980-3371 View (202) 980-3371
Photo of Lenka Glassman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Lenka Glassman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
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.
(202) 335-3724 View (202) 335-3724
Photo of Stephen Holland, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Stephen Holland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. 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. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. 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. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
(202) 759-2884 View (202) 759-2884
Photo of Carey Schwartz, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Carey Schwartz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. 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. He typically works with late adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds. Dr. Schwartz primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) though he frequently incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training and acceptance-based approaches into his treatment.
Dr. 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. He typically works with late adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds. Dr. Schwartz primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) though he frequently incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training and acceptance-based approaches into his treatment.
(202) 335-7301 View (202) 335-7301
Photo of Dr. David Keuler, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. David Keuler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
Years of experience often matter when people are anxious or otherwise distraught. For 25 years, I have specialized in the cognitive-behavioral (CBT) treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) as well as a range of anxiety and depressive disorders in late adolescents and adults. These disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, and Illness Anxiety Disorder as well as persistent depression. I frequently work with relationship challenges, stressful life circumstances, and a broad range of outpatient mental health issues. I see clients in DC, MD, VA and nationally in all participating PsyPact states.
Years of experience often matter when people are anxious or otherwise distraught. For 25 years, I have specialized in the cognitive-behavioral (CBT) treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) as well as a range of anxiety and depressive disorders in late adolescents and adults. These disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, and Illness Anxiety Disorder as well as persistent depression. I frequently work with relationship challenges, stressful life circumstances, and a broad range of outpatient mental health issues. I see clients in DC, MD, VA and nationally in all participating PsyPact states.
(202) 952-8940 View (202) 952-8940
Photo of Meme Rhee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Meme Rhee
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
As a certified psychoanalyst, I specialize in treating teens and adults who struggle with depression; intense anxiety; obsessive-compulsive symptoms including invasive, disturbing thoughts; intolerable, painful emotions; high-conflict relationships; impulsive behaviors including suicidal and self-injurious behavior; substance and/or alcohol abuse; eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Our collaboration strives to help you find internal harmony. My method of investigation of the mind is designed to help you gain clarity in your thinking, achieve emotional containment and experience self-empowerment.
As a certified psychoanalyst, I specialize in treating teens and adults who struggle with depression; intense anxiety; obsessive-compulsive symptoms including invasive, disturbing thoughts; intolerable, painful emotions; high-conflict relationships; impulsive behaviors including suicidal and self-injurious behavior; substance and/or alcohol abuse; eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Our collaboration strives to help you find internal harmony. My method of investigation of the mind is designed to help you gain clarity in your thinking, achieve emotional containment and experience self-empowerment.
(202) 946-7632 View (202) 946-7632
Photo of Purposeful Life Therapy - Carolyn Watson Phd, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Purposeful Life Therapy - Carolyn Watson Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
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.
(202) 831-4486 View (202) 831-4486
Photo of Maryam Khatami, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Maryam Khatami
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My areas of expertise are: Anxiety Disorders (Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety, Selective Mutism, Separation Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, and Generalized Anxiety); Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders (OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding, Trichotillomania, Excoriation); and Tic Disorders (Tourette's, Motor/Vocal Tic Disorder).
Anxiety is a normal emotion that we feel when we encounter a threat or stressful situation, because anxiety signals us to respond to danger or to prepare for important situations. However, when anxiety becomes all-consuming and hinders our ability to function, then we find that our life becomes smaller, darker, and more limiting. Without the resources and tools to manage anxiety, life can feel daunting, but what if we can gain control of our lives with treatment and support? I wholeheartedly believe that there is hope and possibility to thrive and live fully while living with an anxiety disorder.
My areas of expertise are: Anxiety Disorders (Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety, Selective Mutism, Separation Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, and Generalized Anxiety); Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders (OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding, Trichotillomania, Excoriation); and Tic Disorders (Tourette's, Motor/Vocal Tic Disorder).
Anxiety is a normal emotion that we feel when we encounter a threat or stressful situation, because anxiety signals us to respond to danger or to prepare for important situations. However, when anxiety becomes all-consuming and hinders our ability to function, then we find that our life becomes smaller, darker, and more limiting. Without the resources and tools to manage anxiety, life can feel daunting, but what if we can gain control of our lives with treatment and support? I wholeheartedly believe that there is hope and possibility to thrive and live fully while living with an anxiety disorder.
(202) 883-6637 View (202) 883-6637
Photo of Sapna Doshi, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Sapna Doshi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. 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. She utilizes scientific, evidence-based approaches to inform her treatment with clients. She specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Dr. 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. She utilizes scientific, evidence-based approaches to inform her treatment with clients. She specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
(703) 783-9118 View (703) 783-9118
Photo of Sara Petrasso, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Sara Petrasso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Prior to that, I worked extensively in treating OCD, phobias, and eating disorders at a practice in NYC.
I work with individuals who feel their lives are hindered by unwanted or distressing feelings, or self-defeating patterns of behavior, and who experience depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, compulsive or impulsive behaviors, or relationship difficulties. By establishing more effective coping skills and responses, positive changes can develop and lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively, exploring the foundation of the problem, identifying problematic patterns, and then developing treatment goals tailored to the unique needs of each individual client.
Prior to that, I worked extensively in treating OCD, phobias, and eating disorders at a practice in NYC.
I work with individuals who feel their lives are hindered by unwanted or distressing feelings, or self-defeating patterns of behavior, and who experience depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, compulsive or impulsive behaviors, or relationship difficulties. By establishing more effective coping skills and responses, positive changes can develop and lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively, exploring the foundation of the problem, identifying problematic patterns, and then developing treatment goals tailored to the unique needs of each individual client.
(202) 618-5571 View (202) 618-5571
Photo of Lauren Kay Laich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Lauren Kay Laich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My greatest reward is helping clients explore ways to change their lives, allowing them to feel hopeful about the future. I work from a person-centered perspective, allowing my clients to determine the pace & direction of therapy. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, addiction, & self-esteem. I use CBT, DBT, & Motivational Interviewing techniques, based on the needs of the individual. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen & accept us as we are, without judgment; this is my goal as a therapist.
My greatest reward is helping clients explore ways to change their lives, allowing them to feel hopeful about the future. I work from a person-centered perspective, allowing my clients to determine the pace & direction of therapy. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, addiction, & self-esteem. I use CBT, DBT, & Motivational Interviewing techniques, based on the needs of the individual. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen & accept us as we are, without judgment; this is my goal as a therapist.
(866) 275-2079 View (866) 275-2079
Photo of DC Talk Therapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
DC Talk Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Anxiety and OCD are two of our specialty areas, and we primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat them.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, stress or depression? If so, you've come to to the right place. Our 11 Washington, DC therapists specialize in working with young adults (20s and 30s). We offer in-person sessions as well as online therapy for individual counseling and group therapy. Since we opened our doors in 2012, DC Talk Therapy has helped nearly 2,000 clients make positive and sustained changes in their lives. The period between college and middle age can often feel chaotic and scary, filled with major life decisions and significant changes. Let one of our experienced and compassionate therapists help you navigate it all.
Anxiety and OCD are two of our specialty areas, and we primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat them.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, stress or depression? If so, you've come to to the right place. Our 11 Washington, DC therapists specialize in working with young adults (20s and 30s). We offer in-person sessions as well as online therapy for individual counseling and group therapy. Since we opened our doors in 2012, DC Talk Therapy has helped nearly 2,000 clients make positive and sustained changes in their lives. The period between college and middle age can often feel chaotic and scary, filled with major life decisions and significant changes. Let one of our experienced and compassionate therapists help you navigate it all.
(202) 335-1958 View (202) 335-1958
Photo of Natalie Chaykin Pierce, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Natalie Chaykin Pierce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
(703) 952-5233 View (703) 952-5233
Photo of Lillian DePetrillo, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Lillian DePetrillo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
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 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 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.
(202) 978-6731 View (202) 978-6731
Photo of Carrie Holl, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Carrie Holl
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I am an empathic and experienced Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist. I also teach at Georgetown Hospital and the George Washington University, as well as serve on the OCD Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Board. My treatment aims are as follows: 1) provide direct symptom relief, 2) engage clients in treatment in a way that interests them, 3) appeal to strengths, 4) encourage overall treatment compliance, and 5) explain the clinical process in easy to understand language. Empowerment occurs with the recognition that mental health symptoms have predictable patterns. Symptoms are relieved through changing these patterns. Interactive readings and assignments are encouraged.
I am an empathic and experienced Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist. I also teach at Georgetown Hospital and the George Washington University, as well as serve on the OCD Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Board. My treatment aims are as follows: 1) provide direct symptom relief, 2) engage clients in treatment in a way that interests them, 3) appeal to strengths, 4) encourage overall treatment compliance, and 5) explain the clinical process in easy to understand language. Empowerment occurs with the recognition that mental health symptoms have predictable patterns. Symptoms are relieved through changing these patterns. Interactive readings and assignments are encouraged.
(202) 670-8967 View (202) 670-8967
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.