Photo of Christopher Nora, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Christopher Nora
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I have interest in continuing to work with adult client populations experiencing moderate to severe anxiety, depression, obsessive and compulsive symptom presentation, as well as trauma and substance use.
I am a firm believer that the success of a therapeutic relationship can be determined within the first two sessions. A strong alliance between the practitioner and client is essential for the success of treatment. As such, I place a strong emphasis on creating an environment that fosters comfortable conversation, safety, and openness between us as partners in the therapeutic process. By doing so, and allowing conversation to flow naturally, I believe that a more authentic alliance can begin to develop. I adhere mainly to cognitive behavioral theory to serve as the backbone for the therapeutic techniques that I employ.
I have interest in continuing to work with adult client populations experiencing moderate to severe anxiety, depression, obsessive and compulsive symptom presentation, as well as trauma and substance use.
I am a firm believer that the success of a therapeutic relationship can be determined within the first two sessions. A strong alliance between the practitioner and client is essential for the success of treatment. As such, I place a strong emphasis on creating an environment that fosters comfortable conversation, safety, and openness between us as partners in the therapeutic process. By doing so, and allowing conversation to flow naturally, I believe that a more authentic alliance can begin to develop. I adhere mainly to cognitive behavioral theory to serve as the backbone for the therapeutic techniques that I employ.
(312) 313-8416 View (312) 313-8416
Photo of Timothy Re, Psychologist in Illinois
Timothy Re
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I enjoy working with many different types of issues in a setting that promotes honesty, growth and trust. My specialties are Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and using Cognitve-Behavioral techiques on various issues.
I enjoy working with many different types of issues in a setting that promotes honesty, growth and trust. My specialties are Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and using Cognitve-Behavioral techiques on various issues.
(847) 416-2106 x317 View (847) 416-2106 x317
Photo of Dr. Tab Shamsi, Psychologist in Illinois
Dr. Tab Shamsi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
I have specialized experience in treating anxiety, OCD, depression, and problems in relationships.
The successful outcome of therapy is change that makes your life more meaningful. For most people, this means changing how we deal with difficulty, choosing different actions, and focusing our attention on what truly matters. I believe that using an evidence-based approach to treatment can make this a reality for most people. Having worked with hundreds of clients over my career, I have found that it is possible to quickly improve your life with the right tools that help you build the necessary skills. If you are hesitant about an unending commitment to therapy but believe you can benefit from change, our work will be productive.
I have specialized experience in treating anxiety, OCD, depression, and problems in relationships.
The successful outcome of therapy is change that makes your life more meaningful. For most people, this means changing how we deal with difficulty, choosing different actions, and focusing our attention on what truly matters. I believe that using an evidence-based approach to treatment can make this a reality for most people. Having worked with hundreds of clients over my career, I have found that it is possible to quickly improve your life with the right tools that help you build the necessary skills. If you are hesitant about an unending commitment to therapy but believe you can benefit from change, our work will be productive.
(773) 839-9963 View (773) 839-9963
Photo of Jt Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Jt Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I work with adults and I specialize in all forms of anxiety: Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, Phobias, OCD, Agoraphobia. I also focus on insomnia/sleep disturbances, adjustment disorder and depression. I work with couples as well and have completed the Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 3 training. Having been a medical social worker for 15 years, I have a passion for working with healthcare professionals. The occupational stressors of healthcare are unique and I have the experience of having practiced social work in a hospital for many years. I am also passionate about working with people within their faith traditions.
I work with adults and I specialize in all forms of anxiety: Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, Phobias, OCD, Agoraphobia. I also focus on insomnia/sleep disturbances, adjustment disorder and depression. I work with couples as well and have completed the Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 3 training. Having been a medical social worker for 15 years, I have a passion for working with healthcare professionals. The occupational stressors of healthcare are unique and I have the experience of having practiced social work in a hospital for many years. I am also passionate about working with people within their faith traditions.
(217) 689-0667 View (217) 689-0667
Photo of Karsten Storms, Counselor in Illinois
Karsten Storms
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
I have unique specialties in working with OCD, trauma victims(physical, sexual, and emotional abuse), and spiritual belief systems.
Are you hurting? Not knowing where to turn to for help? Counseling can be a great place to find acceptance and help for one's problems.
I have unique specialties in working with OCD, trauma victims(physical, sexual, and emotional abuse), and spiritual belief systems.
Are you hurting? Not knowing where to turn to for help? Counseling can be a great place to find acceptance and help for one's problems.
(618) 328-5841 View (618) 328-5841
Photo of Daniel B Nicholas, Psychologist in Illinois
Daniel B Nicholas
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Tinley Park, IL 60477
I help children, teens and adults who are experiencing anxiety or worry. These disorders can take many forms like panic, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, health anxiety, specific fears and PTSD. Receive cognitve and exposure therapies to learn how to manage negative thinking, unpleasant internal sensations, and safety seeking behaviors. I also can effectively help you if you are experiencing depression, anger, and, difficulty paying attention. These issues cause significant problems with your ability to be productive, have healthy relationships and to enjoy your life.
I help children, teens and adults who are experiencing anxiety or worry. These disorders can take many forms like panic, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, health anxiety, specific fears and PTSD. Receive cognitve and exposure therapies to learn how to manage negative thinking, unpleasant internal sensations, and safety seeking behaviors. I also can effectively help you if you are experiencing depression, anger, and, difficulty paying attention. These issues cause significant problems with your ability to be productive, have healthy relationships and to enjoy your life.
(708) 342-1773 View (708) 342-1773
Photo of Mark Gorzkowski, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
Mark Gorzkowski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
My practice focuses primarily on the treatment of adolescents (16 and older) and adults with OCD and anxiety disorders, depression, self-injury, young adult struggles, interpersonal conflict, and trauma. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with OCD (e.g. excessive hand-washing, repetitive checking behaviors, scrupulosity) and Social Anxiety (e.g. fear of embarrassment). I have extensive training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
My practice focuses primarily on the treatment of adolescents (16 and older) and adults with OCD and anxiety disorders, depression, self-injury, young adult struggles, interpersonal conflict, and trauma. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with OCD (e.g. excessive hand-washing, repetitive checking behaviors, scrupulosity) and Social Anxiety (e.g. fear of embarrassment). I have extensive training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(630) 489-6641 View (630) 489-6641
Photo of Caleb H Friedrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Caleb H Friedrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602
I specialize working with youth ranging in ages from 4-25 addressing a range of disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Grief & Loss, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ASD, and PTSD among other mental health conditions through client-specific interventions.
I have served the Peoria area in various therapeutic roles over the past 7 years working with children and adolescents in residential and community-based programs. These experiences have provided me with a wealth of clinical knowledge and anecdotal experiences to provide each client with a holistic approach that addresses all factors of their functioning. Through this, I am able to match clients with their identified goals and actualize their ideal self to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Every client has the capability to achieve their goals, and I provide the framework to assist them in reaching these goals.
I specialize working with youth ranging in ages from 4-25 addressing a range of disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Grief & Loss, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ASD, and PTSD among other mental health conditions through client-specific interventions.
I have served the Peoria area in various therapeutic roles over the past 7 years working with children and adolescents in residential and community-based programs. These experiences have provided me with a wealth of clinical knowledge and anecdotal experiences to provide each client with a holistic approach that addresses all factors of their functioning. Through this, I am able to match clients with their identified goals and actualize their ideal self to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Every client has the capability to achieve their goals, and I provide the framework to assist them in reaching these goals.
(309) 328-8594 View (309) 328-8594
Photo of Shawn Soule, Counselor in Illinois
Shawn Soule
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Feeling confused or stuck? Therapy can help people identify and make progress on issues that are getting in the way of happiness, personal growth and fulfilling relationships in their lives. My professional experience includes success in helping teens and adults dealing with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance use, relationships, parenting, and family related issues. I have worked in the counseling center of a major university, in a substance use treatment facility, in community mental health, and in private practice and have many years of experience and education.
Feeling confused or stuck? Therapy can help people identify and make progress on issues that are getting in the way of happiness, personal growth and fulfilling relationships in their lives. My professional experience includes success in helping teens and adults dealing with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance use, relationships, parenting, and family related issues. I have worked in the counseling center of a major university, in a substance use treatment facility, in community mental health, and in private practice and have many years of experience and education.
(309) 468-4755 View (309) 468-4755
Photo of Mateusz Dzikowski, Psychologist in Illinois
Mateusz Dzikowski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), especially when symptoms include religious worries and scrupulosity.
I help individuals overcome obstacles and difficulties that keep them from reaching their desired goals and living lives that are marked by peace, meaning, and freedom. I try to do this in a collaborative and respectful manner—in the context of a therapeutic relationship. In this relationship, I seek to explore, process, and resolve challenging and often painful life experiences that have contributed to the development of unhelpful psychological dynamics (e.g., thinking patterns, emotional responses, and interpersonal habits) that cause distress and that negatively impact various parts daily life.
I have a particular interest in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), especially when symptoms include religious worries and scrupulosity.
I help individuals overcome obstacles and difficulties that keep them from reaching their desired goals and living lives that are marked by peace, meaning, and freedom. I try to do this in a collaborative and respectful manner—in the context of a therapeutic relationship. In this relationship, I seek to explore, process, and resolve challenging and often painful life experiences that have contributed to the development of unhelpful psychological dynamics (e.g., thinking patterns, emotional responses, and interpersonal habits) that cause distress and that negatively impact various parts daily life.
(630) 653-1717 View (630) 653-1717
Photo of Chris Crockett, Counselor in Illinois
Chris Crockett
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
Thank you for considering me as your counselor! I offer individual counseling to adults who feel stuck where they are. This includes struggles with trauma, anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, stress and life transitions, low self-esteem, suppression of self, dealing with chronic illness, and the struggles associated with being a highly sensitive person (HSP). As a Christian, I know how integral one’s beliefs can be. If you come from a faith tradition, we can discuss how best to integrate your beliefs in the counseling experience.
Thank you for considering me as your counselor! I offer individual counseling to adults who feel stuck where they are. This includes struggles with trauma, anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, stress and life transitions, low self-esteem, suppression of self, dealing with chronic illness, and the struggles associated with being a highly sensitive person (HSP). As a Christian, I know how integral one’s beliefs can be. If you come from a faith tradition, we can discuss how best to integrate your beliefs in the counseling experience.
(719) 212-4678 View (719) 212-4678
Photo of Ben Gesing, Psychologist in Illinois
Ben Gesing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I have special expertise in treating major depression (and related mood disorders), anxiety, obsessive compulsive (and related disorders), and various other mental / behavioral health issues.
I work collaboratively with my clients to expand their insight into all the relevant factors and/or influences that are keeping them from reaching their full potential. These factors often include, but are not limited to; the identified stressor(s) that brought them into therapy; the effectiveness (or lack of effectiveness) of their current coping strategies; the influence past experiences and physical discomfort can have on their decision making and behavior; and increasing his or her awareness of their individual strengths and weakness. Simply put, I systematically help my clients make appropriate changes needed to meet their identified treatment goals.
I have special expertise in treating major depression (and related mood disorders), anxiety, obsessive compulsive (and related disorders), and various other mental / behavioral health issues.
I work collaboratively with my clients to expand their insight into all the relevant factors and/or influences that are keeping them from reaching their full potential. These factors often include, but are not limited to; the identified stressor(s) that brought them into therapy; the effectiveness (or lack of effectiveness) of their current coping strategies; the influence past experiences and physical discomfort can have on their decision making and behavior; and increasing his or her awareness of their individual strengths and weakness. Simply put, I systematically help my clients make appropriate changes needed to meet their identified treatment goals.
(815) 317-4213 View (815) 317-4213
Photo of Joey Petersen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Joey Petersen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Joey is a compassionate and dedicated therapist excited to support individuals ages 16+ on their journey towards healing and personal growth. Joey offers a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and challenges. Additionally, he values the power of humor in therapy, using it as a valuable tool to create a warm and supportive atmosphere. He also utilizes an empowering, upbeat, and personable approach to therapy that is tailored to each client’s specific needs. Joey has experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, LGBTQ+ issues, life transitions, and self-esteem issues.
Joey is a compassionate and dedicated therapist excited to support individuals ages 16+ on their journey towards healing and personal growth. Joey offers a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and challenges. Additionally, he values the power of humor in therapy, using it as a valuable tool to create a warm and supportive atmosphere. He also utilizes an empowering, upbeat, and personable approach to therapy that is tailored to each client’s specific needs. Joey has experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, LGBTQ+ issues, life transitions, and self-esteem issues.
(331) 246-0917 View (331) 246-0917
Photo of Brad Novak, Counselor in Illinois
Brad Novak
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lansing, IL 60438
Telehealth sessions available; I currently have openings. With our everyday stressors, life will leave you feeling as if you are unreachable & helpless. I'm honored to work with ALL people that are looking for support & desire a change in their life. I support clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders (including binge eating disorder) to reconnect my clients with their lives & to get unstuck, this I'm committed to. There are many struggles that often contribute greatly to our anxiety & make it challenging for us to focus on the here & now. I offer credit counseling. My You Tube Channel: bit.ly/3MOGd2D
Telehealth sessions available; I currently have openings. With our everyday stressors, life will leave you feeling as if you are unreachable & helpless. I'm honored to work with ALL people that are looking for support & desire a change in their life. I support clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders (including binge eating disorder) to reconnect my clients with their lives & to get unstuck, this I'm committed to. There are many struggles that often contribute greatly to our anxiety & make it challenging for us to focus on the here & now. I offer credit counseling. My You Tube Channel: bit.ly/3MOGd2D
(224) 501-9708 View (224) 501-9708
Photo of Arlington Psychological Services, Psychologist in Illinois
Arlington Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
We also help with women's issues, difficulties related to substance abuse, ADHD, OCD, Asperger's, play therapy, and many other specific issues.
Are you or your family having problems? Arlington Psychological treats many concerns, especially Anxiety, Depression, Anger, and Couples' Issues. Are you having problems with intrusive thoughts, intense fears and worries, difficulties with sadness and grief, poor focus? How about chronic irritability, frustration, or family arguments? These problems can affect school, work, or your home life. We treat all school aged children, young adults, college students, and adults, including career professionals, couples, and families. Our experts have unique specialties that can help.
We also help with women's issues, difficulties related to substance abuse, ADHD, OCD, Asperger's, play therapy, and many other specific issues.
Are you or your family having problems? Arlington Psychological treats many concerns, especially Anxiety, Depression, Anger, and Couples' Issues. Are you having problems with intrusive thoughts, intense fears and worries, difficulties with sadness and grief, poor focus? How about chronic irritability, frustration, or family arguments? These problems can affect school, work, or your home life. We treat all school aged children, young adults, college students, and adults, including career professionals, couples, and families. Our experts have unique specialties that can help.
(312) 697-3842 View (312) 697-3842
Photo of Blake D Osborne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Blake D Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Hi! I'm Blake D. Osborne, L.C.S.W. I am mainly doing Telehealth but can meet in person when necessary in the Skokie/Glenview area. I have over twenty-five years experience. I enjoy what I do! I am easy-going, flexible, accepting and down-to-earth. I use research-supported methods. Specialties: Kids and Teens, including ADHD, anger, anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, homework, learning issues, OCD, panic, social skills, toileting. Adults: Mood issues, relationship problems, work issues, and grief. My goal: to make progress simply and efficiently. You should see some change in five-ten sessions.
Hi! I'm Blake D. Osborne, L.C.S.W. I am mainly doing Telehealth but can meet in person when necessary in the Skokie/Glenview area. I have over twenty-five years experience. I enjoy what I do! I am easy-going, flexible, accepting and down-to-earth. I use research-supported methods. Specialties: Kids and Teens, including ADHD, anger, anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, homework, learning issues, OCD, panic, social skills, toileting. Adults: Mood issues, relationship problems, work issues, and grief. My goal: to make progress simply and efficiently. You should see some change in five-ten sessions.
(847) 416-2689 View (847) 416-2689
Photo of Martin McCarthy Jr., Psychologist in Illinois
Martin McCarthy Jr.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
(847) 562-5895 View (847) 562-5895
Photo of Brian Jula, Psychologist in Illinois
Brian Jula
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
In private practice I have worked with and treated individuals with a variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, sexual disorders and more.
“Most people seek therapy because something isn’t working. Sometimes people do not feel equipped to handle life’s problems – work stress, family stress, health issues, etc. Many individuals feel stuck trying to solve problems the same way when those solutions are no longer helpful. This pain can leave someone suffering and feeling helpless.” I want to help you gain perspective and new knowledge and skills for change. Often this involves being more aware and present in the moment. Many people do not recognize the power they have to create positive change in their lives. I will help empower you to find your strengths and make change.
In private practice I have worked with and treated individuals with a variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, sexual disorders and more.
“Most people seek therapy because something isn’t working. Sometimes people do not feel equipped to handle life’s problems – work stress, family stress, health issues, etc. Many individuals feel stuck trying to solve problems the same way when those solutions are no longer helpful. This pain can leave someone suffering and feeling helpless.” I want to help you gain perspective and new knowledge and skills for change. Often this involves being more aware and present in the moment. Many people do not recognize the power they have to create positive change in their lives. I will help empower you to find your strengths and make change.
(779) 207-3857 View (779) 207-3857
Photo of Shoaib Memon in Illinois
Shoaib Memon
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
My clinical specialties include working with adults, families and couples experiencing Anxiety, Depression, ADHD / ADD, Stress, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self Esteem, Life Transition, Loss & Grief, Relationship Issues, Anger and Trauma & PTSD.
Are you done struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships? Are you ready to feel fully yourself and alive again? Are you ready to build the life you want to live? My first goal when meeting with you is to establish a genuine & collaborative connection. This'll serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, understand experiences & make positive changes to your life. We'll work together to help you feel whole, peaceful, and connected. When you're done with therapy, you'll feel empowered and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at you. I can help you live your passion, purpose & truth.
My clinical specialties include working with adults, families and couples experiencing Anxiety, Depression, ADHD / ADD, Stress, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self Esteem, Life Transition, Loss & Grief, Relationship Issues, Anger and Trauma & PTSD.
Are you done struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships? Are you ready to feel fully yourself and alive again? Are you ready to build the life you want to live? My first goal when meeting with you is to establish a genuine & collaborative connection. This'll serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, understand experiences & make positive changes to your life. We'll work together to help you feel whole, peaceful, and connected. When you're done with therapy, you'll feel empowered and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at you. I can help you live your passion, purpose & truth.
(312) 635-5039 View (312) 635-5039
Photo of Michael Clatch, Psychologist in Illinois
Michael Clatch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenview, IL 60025
I specialize in treating patients with Asperger's Syndrome, ADHD, OCD, Social Skills Building, Teens and Young Adults, Self-Esteem, Behavior Management, Guys' issues, and the difficult emotions surrounding grief and loss.
My patient-focused therapeutic approach is designed to promote positive outcomes for patients who are facing some of life's toughest challenges, and guide them to use their inner strength to become more confident and ultimately meet their goals. All of this is accomplished in an empathic way, while I listen and offer feedback. As they grow, my patients become happier and more successful in their lives.
I specialize in treating patients with Asperger's Syndrome, ADHD, OCD, Social Skills Building, Teens and Young Adults, Self-Esteem, Behavior Management, Guys' issues, and the difficult emotions surrounding grief and loss.
My patient-focused therapeutic approach is designed to promote positive outcomes for patients who are facing some of life's toughest challenges, and guide them to use their inner strength to become more confident and ultimately meet their goals. All of this is accomplished in an empathic way, while I listen and offer feedback. As they grow, my patients become happier and more successful in their lives.
(847) 512-8668 View (847) 512-8668
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.