Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Dr. Jaime Murtagh, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Jaime Murtagh
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Is your child struggling with anxiety, OCD-like behaviors, or repetitive negative thinking? If so, you may feel unsure how to help. Maybe you've tried soothing them, allowing them to skip things that seem to make their anxiety worse, and reassuring them that everything will be fine, but you're worried you may be enabling their anxiety. You know what a great kid you have and it’s painful to see them struggle at school and socially. You just want them to be happy. You’ve reached a point where your child’s worry, emotional outbursts, and distress are just too much for your family to handle and you need some guidance.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, OCD-like behaviors, or repetitive negative thinking? If so, you may feel unsure how to help. Maybe you've tried soothing them, allowing them to skip things that seem to make their anxiety worse, and reassuring them that everything will be fine, but you're worried you may be enabling their anxiety. You know what a great kid you have and it’s painful to see them struggle at school and socially. You just want them to be happy. You’ve reached a point where your child’s worry, emotional outbursts, and distress are just too much for your family to handle and you need some guidance.
(314) 310-1693 View (314) 310-1693
Photo of Elyse Vesser, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elyse Vesser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Waitlist for new clients
I help highly sensitive people navigate our complex world with less overwhelm. My clients often struggle with feeling ungrounded. Despite being highly empathetic and wise, they might continue to feel unseen by others and feel stuck in past traumatic experiences and negative beliefs about themselves. I have worked with a range of diagnoses, though have advanced training in working with PTSD & OCD. I see people of all identities, though many of my clients are LGBTQIA+ and/or neurodivergent.
I help highly sensitive people navigate our complex world with less overwhelm. My clients often struggle with feeling ungrounded. Despite being highly empathetic and wise, they might continue to feel unseen by others and feel stuck in past traumatic experiences and negative beliefs about themselves. I have worked with a range of diagnoses, though have advanced training in working with PTSD & OCD. I see people of all identities, though many of my clients are LGBTQIA+ and/or neurodivergent.
(314) 673-1004 View (314) 673-1004
Photo of Joanna Brodersen, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Brodersen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with OCD, managing anxiety, processing trauma, or navigating significant life changes, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome and congratulations on starting your counseling journey! If you’re tired of feeling like you can’t understand why you don’t have energy, are confused about your life decisions, or continuing to cancel plans due to anxiety, I can help. I work primarily with individuals struggling with OCD, anxiety, trauma, life changes, and negative thoughts about yourself.
Whether you are struggling with OCD, managing anxiety, processing trauma, or navigating significant life changes, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome and congratulations on starting your counseling journey! If you’re tired of feeling like you can’t understand why you don’t have energy, are confused about your life decisions, or continuing to cancel plans due to anxiety, I can help. I work primarily with individuals struggling with OCD, anxiety, trauma, life changes, and negative thoughts about yourself.
(314) 648-3745 View (314) 648-3745
Photo of Tana Steffens, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tana Steffens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I have specialized training in a variety of trauma modalities, identity exploration, and in treating OCD.
I frequently work with people who have a lot of moving parts in their lives. Whether you’re navigating traumatic experiences, exploring components of identity, or wading through overwhelming seasons of life in other ways, my goal is to help you sift through it all and provide support to process at your own pace. I'm comfortable navigating many of the other pieces that come with trauma or overwhelm - managing episodes of depression, mitigating anxiety, and creating spaces that make life feel worth living.
I have specialized training in a variety of trauma modalities, identity exploration, and in treating OCD.
I frequently work with people who have a lot of moving parts in their lives. Whether you’re navigating traumatic experiences, exploring components of identity, or wading through overwhelming seasons of life in other ways, my goal is to help you sift through it all and provide support to process at your own pace. I'm comfortable navigating many of the other pieces that come with trauma or overwhelm - managing episodes of depression, mitigating anxiety, and creating spaces that make life feel worth living.
View
Photo of Jordan Easter, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jordan Easter
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Many of my clients suffer from anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and relationship issues.
My ideal client is someone ready to make a change that propels them to their next chapter in life. I believe that my clients most value my ability to remain optimistic while keeping a firm grasp on reality. We all want to reach the highest levels of self actualization, but if your anxiety, depression, or ADHD are making it hard to complete daily living tasks that may feel out of reach. My diverse experience helps me accurately empathize with a variety of life issues. I have previously worked as a primary grade teacher, residential eating disorder treatment, and assisting a psychiatrist specializing in ADHD treatment for adults.
Many of my clients suffer from anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and relationship issues.
My ideal client is someone ready to make a change that propels them to their next chapter in life. I believe that my clients most value my ability to remain optimistic while keeping a firm grasp on reality. We all want to reach the highest levels of self actualization, but if your anxiety, depression, or ADHD are making it hard to complete daily living tasks that may feel out of reach. My diverse experience helps me accurately empathize with a variety of life issues. I have previously worked as a primary grade teacher, residential eating disorder treatment, and assisting a psychiatrist specializing in ADHD treatment for adults.
(314) 207-0331 View (314) 207-0331
Photo of Laura Chackes, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Chackes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Our team of psychologists, counselors, social workers, and trainees all provide specialized evidence-based treatment for those with anxiety, OCD, and BFRBs, along with those struggling with depression, the effects of trauma, and other life stressors.
I've specialized in treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety and related disorders including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorder), Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Separation Anxiety, and Selective Mutism for the past 17 years. As the owner of The Center for Mindfulness & CBT, I've hired and trained other anxiety/ OCD/BFRB experts, and continue to provide supervision and consultation, so I work to connect those I can't see to others in the practice.
Our team of psychologists, counselors, social workers, and trainees all provide specialized evidence-based treatment for those with anxiety, OCD, and BFRBs, along with those struggling with depression, the effects of trauma, and other life stressors.
I've specialized in treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety and related disorders including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorder), Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Separation Anxiety, and Selective Mutism for the past 17 years. As the owner of The Center for Mindfulness & CBT, I've hired and trained other anxiety/ OCD/BFRB experts, and continue to provide supervision and consultation, so I work to connect those I can't see to others in the practice.
(314) 384-5223 View (314) 384-5223
Photo of Yvonne Hertich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvonne Hertich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that everyone can benefit from having an empowering, nonjudgmental therapist in their life. You may feel like you’re functioning okay on the outside but have disruptive thoughts, challenging relationships, or past situations that interrupt your life. I can provide you or your child with a space where you can be your authentic self while working towards making changes, overcoming difficulties, and coping with life’s variety of challenges. I specialize in OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, grief/loss, and emotional dysregulation.
I believe that everyone can benefit from having an empowering, nonjudgmental therapist in their life. You may feel like you’re functioning okay on the outside but have disruptive thoughts, challenging relationships, or past situations that interrupt your life. I can provide you or your child with a space where you can be your authentic self while working towards making changes, overcoming difficulties, and coping with life’s variety of challenges. I specialize in OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, grief/loss, and emotional dysregulation.
(314) 254-9149 View (314) 254-9149
Photo of Cristina Cousins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristina Cousins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients dealing with anxiety or depression rooted in perfectionism, challenging family dynamics, work/life imbalance, OCD, coping with neurodivergence in a neurotypical world, and religious trauma. I enjoy working with women and non-binary individuals who feel uncomfortable with the cultural norms forced upon them. I am a neurodivergent (ND) friendly therapist, and have experience supporting my clients to identify and work with their ND characteristics - including those who believe they may have undiagnosed ADHD or Autism. I am LGBTQIA+ allied.
I work with clients dealing with anxiety or depression rooted in perfectionism, challenging family dynamics, work/life imbalance, OCD, coping with neurodivergence in a neurotypical world, and religious trauma. I enjoy working with women and non-binary individuals who feel uncomfortable with the cultural norms forced upon them. I am a neurodivergent (ND) friendly therapist, and have experience supporting my clients to identify and work with their ND characteristics - including those who believe they may have undiagnosed ADHD or Autism. I am LGBTQIA+ allied.
(314) 207-2532 View (314) 207-2532
Photo of Gabrielle Kunar-Macias, MA, PLPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabrielle Kunar-Macias
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63104
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, OCD, specific phobias, trauma, suicidal ideation, building secure attachments, family conflicts, and parenting.
Life can be beautiful, but let’s be honest, it can also be stressful! From our very first session, you can expect to feel safe, validated, and at ease. I use humor and a strengths-based approach to create a space where we can be our authentic selves. My style is integrative, trauma-informed, and I tailor our work to meet your individual needs, goals, and interest. I incorporate art, play, reading, mindfulness, inner child, and parts work into our sessions. I can also communicate and collaborate with you or your child’s other providers (school counselors, teachers, physicians, etc.) to ensure a holistic and coordinated approach.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, OCD, specific phobias, trauma, suicidal ideation, building secure attachments, family conflicts, and parenting.
Life can be beautiful, but let’s be honest, it can also be stressful! From our very first session, you can expect to feel safe, validated, and at ease. I use humor and a strengths-based approach to create a space where we can be our authentic selves. My style is integrative, trauma-informed, and I tailor our work to meet your individual needs, goals, and interest. I incorporate art, play, reading, mindfulness, inner child, and parts work into our sessions. I can also communicate and collaborate with you or your child’s other providers (school counselors, teachers, physicians, etc.) to ensure a holistic and coordinated approach.
(314) 296-3222 View (314) 296-3222
Photo of Angela Adamson Springer, MSW, LCSW, ACT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Adamson Springer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
It is SO hard navigating anxiety and OCD.
If you or your child/teen is struggling with anxiety-related problems or OCD- we've got you! My name is Angela Springer; I am the owner of Calm Mind CBT. All five therapists at Calm Mind have advanced training in evidence-based treatment for anxiety and OCD. Treatment that works! We work with kids, teens, adults, and parents (so everyone!). Our PASSION is to make therapy fun and engaging for kids. Check out our Instagram to see lots of fun video (CalmMindCBT). We can't wait to show you how we can help as you take the first (or maybe the millionth) step toward reducing your/your child's anxiety. You are no longer alone in this!
It is SO hard navigating anxiety and OCD.
If you or your child/teen is struggling with anxiety-related problems or OCD- we've got you! My name is Angela Springer; I am the owner of Calm Mind CBT. All five therapists at Calm Mind have advanced training in evidence-based treatment for anxiety and OCD. Treatment that works! We work with kids, teens, adults, and parents (so everyone!). Our PASSION is to make therapy fun and engaging for kids. Check out our Instagram to see lots of fun video (CalmMindCBT). We can't wait to show you how we can help as you take the first (or maybe the millionth) step toward reducing your/your child's anxiety. You are no longer alone in this!
(314) 309-3374 View (314) 309-3374
Photo of Marcio Guzman, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Marcio Guzman
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63103
Hi, there. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders and couple's therapy. I have extensive training and experience in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention). I also have extensive training and experience in IFS (Internal Family Systems). I will tailor my approach to your specific needs. During our work together, you can expect me to be attentive, gentle, compassionate, and attuned. Contact me anytime. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi, there. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders and couple's therapy. I have extensive training and experience in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention). I also have extensive training and experience in IFS (Internal Family Systems). I will tailor my approach to your specific needs. During our work together, you can expect me to be attentive, gentle, compassionate, and attuned. Contact me anytime. I look forward to meeting you!
View
Photo of Maia Nagle Abeles, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maia Nagle Abeles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63112
Mental health is as important as physical health! I am passionate about working with those experiencing OCD, anxiety, depression, stressful life transitions, difficulties in relationships (familial and otherwise), and those who have experienced trauma.
I specialize in OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, disordered eating, stress, relationship issues, and more. I am also passionate about helping parents understand and interpret their children’s and teens' behavior. I use CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention, DBT skills, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in my practice and tailor my approach to individual client wants and needs. I identify as a queer, Jewish therapist and my practice is a safe space for LGBTQIA+ folks, those in non-monogamous relationships, and those who want to explore gender and sexual identity.
Mental health is as important as physical health! I am passionate about working with those experiencing OCD, anxiety, depression, stressful life transitions, difficulties in relationships (familial and otherwise), and those who have experienced trauma.
I specialize in OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, disordered eating, stress, relationship issues, and more. I am also passionate about helping parents understand and interpret their children’s and teens' behavior. I use CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention, DBT skills, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in my practice and tailor my approach to individual client wants and needs. I identify as a queer, Jewish therapist and my practice is a safe space for LGBTQIA+ folks, those in non-monogamous relationships, and those who want to explore gender and sexual identity.
(314) 866-9254 View (314) 866-9254
Photo of Amanda Lee Peterson, MAC, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Lee Peterson
Counselor, MAC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety disorders and PTSD.
Living with anxiety or OCD is miserable! I have worked with anxiety and OCD for almost a decade and enjoy helping kids, teens and adults break free from the limitations and distress that anxiety creates in daily life. Often I see clients who are discouraged that talk therapy or other treatments have not been helpful. Research consistently demonstrates the importance of evidence-based treatment for moderate to severe anxiety and OCD. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is essential for successful treatment.
I have specialized training in evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety disorders and PTSD.
Living with anxiety or OCD is miserable! I have worked with anxiety and OCD for almost a decade and enjoy helping kids, teens and adults break free from the limitations and distress that anxiety creates in daily life. Often I see clients who are discouraged that talk therapy or other treatments have not been helpful. Research consistently demonstrates the importance of evidence-based treatment for moderate to severe anxiety and OCD. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is essential for successful treatment.
(206) 466-0957 View (206) 466-0957
Photo of Caroline Schmidt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63110
Beyond RO-DBT, I also work with people who struggle with OCD, specific phobias/fears, and PTSD.
Do you struggle with chronic or treatment-resistant depression or anxiety? Do you have high standards for yourself or others that are sometimes impossible to live up to? When others are having fun and relaxed, is it hard for you to join in? If any of these apply to you, then we might be a great therapeutic match! Trained by the treatment developers at the Radically Open Institute, I specialize in Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based, transdiagnostic therapy for disorders of overcontrol. I love working with people to build a life that’s not only worth living but also worth sharing!
Beyond RO-DBT, I also work with people who struggle with OCD, specific phobias/fears, and PTSD.
Do you struggle with chronic or treatment-resistant depression or anxiety? Do you have high standards for yourself or others that are sometimes impossible to live up to? When others are having fun and relaxed, is it hard for you to join in? If any of these apply to you, then we might be a great therapeutic match! Trained by the treatment developers at the Radically Open Institute, I specialize in Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based, transdiagnostic therapy for disorders of overcontrol. I love working with people to build a life that’s not only worth living but also worth sharing!
(314) 876-8097 View (314) 876-8097
Photo of Dr. Melissa Lukse - Dr. Melissa Lukse, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Lukse, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63116  (Online Only)
Dr. Lukse is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She specializes in working with individuals with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and binge eating disorder. She also works with individuals and caregivers adapting to living with chronic illness and/or disabilities. She offers telehealth services in Illinois, New York, Missouri, and Iowa.
Dr. Lukse is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She specializes in working with individuals with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and binge eating disorder. She also works with individuals and caregivers adapting to living with chronic illness and/or disabilities. She offers telehealth services in Illinois, New York, Missouri, and Iowa.
(224) 208-1821 View (224) 208-1821
Photo of Kenley Breckenridge, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenley Breckenridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63130  (Online Only)
While I have experience working with a wide variety of presenting concerns, a few of my specialties include OCD, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment related stressors, eating disorders, relationship distress, and mood challenges.
Are you here because something is impacting your well-being? Are you seeking a supportive environment to explore, reflect, and navigate unpleasant emotions and experiences? I support individuals 18+ who are facing various types of challenges.
While I have experience working with a wide variety of presenting concerns, a few of my specialties include OCD, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment related stressors, eating disorders, relationship distress, and mood challenges.
Are you here because something is impacting your well-being? Are you seeking a supportive environment to explore, reflect, and navigate unpleasant emotions and experiences? I support individuals 18+ who are facing various types of challenges.
(816) 727-3559 View (816) 727-3559
Photo of Ryan Wilderman, MA, LPC, Counselor
Ryan Wilderman
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63134  (Online Only)
I specialize in using affirming, evidence-based practices to address concerns related to OCD, anxiety, perfectionism, thought disorders such as psychosis and mood issues.
People who choose to work with me often struggle with various anxieties, fears and incredibly high standards. These issues can often manifest as OCD, anxiety, depressiveness and perfectionism. Many times, these difficulties spread into other areas of life and can impact school, work, family and even just engaging in activities that were once enjoyable. I help people and support systems navigate and learn strategies to manage these issues in order to better function and to be happier overall.
I specialize in using affirming, evidence-based practices to address concerns related to OCD, anxiety, perfectionism, thought disorders such as psychosis and mood issues.
People who choose to work with me often struggle with various anxieties, fears and incredibly high standards. These issues can often manifest as OCD, anxiety, depressiveness and perfectionism. Many times, these difficulties spread into other areas of life and can impact school, work, family and even just engaging in activities that were once enjoyable. I help people and support systems navigate and learn strategies to manage these issues in order to better function and to be happier overall.
(314) 208-3477 View (314) 208-3477
Photo of Lauren Hendrix, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Hendrix
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I work with adults and older teens (15+) struggling with anxiety, OCD, BFRBs, BDD, depression, body image issues, and other life concerns like role transitions and finding purpose. I have compassion for those trying to find their way in life and needing some help to find the strength that is already within them.
I work with adults and older teens (15+) struggling with anxiety, OCD, BFRBs, BDD, depression, body image issues, and other life concerns like role transitions and finding purpose. I have compassion for those trying to find their way in life and needing some help to find the strength that is already within them.
(314) 907-2221 View (314) 907-2221
Photo of Kristy Cobillas, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristy Cobillas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
If you find yourself continuing to struggle with obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, PTSD symptoms or anxiety, please do not hesitate to call.
As an OCD, Trauma, and Anxiety specialist, I am here to tell you that you do not have to continue to suffer from the pervasive and agonizing obsessive thoughts associated with OCD, nor do you need to continue to carry the trauma of the past with you. The thoughts, emotions, and self concepts continue to follow, despite the fact that time passes, and despite how much you KNOW that the obsessive thoughts are unnecessary, you seem to not be able to break free from them. If it seems as though no matter what you KNOW about life, there is a struggle to feel differently, I want you to know that this can change.
If you find yourself continuing to struggle with obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, PTSD symptoms or anxiety, please do not hesitate to call.
As an OCD, Trauma, and Anxiety specialist, I am here to tell you that you do not have to continue to suffer from the pervasive and agonizing obsessive thoughts associated with OCD, nor do you need to continue to carry the trauma of the past with you. The thoughts, emotions, and self concepts continue to follow, despite the fact that time passes, and despite how much you KNOW that the obsessive thoughts are unnecessary, you seem to not be able to break free from them. If it seems as though no matter what you KNOW about life, there is a struggle to feel differently, I want you to know that this can change.
(314) 470-8907 View (314) 470-8907
Photo of Tina Odell - Tina Odell - NOCD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Odell - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I am committed to helping you overcome OCD and live the life you deserve.
My approach to treating OCD starts with accepting you where you are and taking a non-judgmental stance. We'll identify your triggers and fears to determine what changes are needed. Gradually, I'll introduce you to incremental exposures of feared events, beliefs, or experiences, helping you learn to manage the discomfort without resorting to compulsions. My team at NOCD and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Additionally, we have received intensive training ERP—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
I am committed to helping you overcome OCD and live the life you deserve.
My approach to treating OCD starts with accepting you where you are and taking a non-judgmental stance. We'll identify your triggers and fears to determine what changes are needed. Gradually, I'll introduce you to incremental exposures of feared events, beliefs, or experiences, helping you learn to manage the discomfort without resorting to compulsions. My team at NOCD and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Additionally, we have received intensive training ERP—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
(312) 766-6780 View (312) 766-6780
1
...

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.