Photo of Lora Plohal, Counselor in Arizona
Lora Plohal
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I primarily work with children, teens, and adults in Arizona living with symptoms of anxiety, OCD, ADHD, trauma or depression.
Do you feel alone and that no one understands you or your struggles? Do you find managing the stress of daily life and relationships challenging because of anxiety, trauma, depression, or OCD? Are you losing sleep, struggling with low self-esteem or stuck in a pattern of overthinking or doubting your decisions? If searching for a therapist for yourself or your child feels overwhelming, let me help make it easier. Just reach out. I am happy to help, and will answer any questions you may have about therapy or my practice.
I primarily work with children, teens, and adults in Arizona living with symptoms of anxiety, OCD, ADHD, trauma or depression.
Do you feel alone and that no one understands you or your struggles? Do you find managing the stress of daily life and relationships challenging because of anxiety, trauma, depression, or OCD? Are you losing sleep, struggling with low self-esteem or stuck in a pattern of overthinking or doubting your decisions? If searching for a therapist for yourself or your child feels overwhelming, let me help make it easier. Just reach out. I am happy to help, and will answer any questions you may have about therapy or my practice.
(480) 808-0871 View (480) 808-0871
Photo of Allison Summer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Allison Summer
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cave Creek, AZ 85331  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who suffer from ARFID, OCD and other eating disorders.
Welcome, you are so brave for exploring therapy options. Struggling with constant thoughts about anxiety, compulsions, food and your body is exhausting. You don't have to go it alone or feel trapped anymore. I specialize in the treatment of children, teens and adults with anxiety, OCD, ARFID and other eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. I am passionate about providing evidence-based treatment to help you reach your goals, improve your quality of life and achieve lasting recovery. My holistic treatment style allows me to help support my clients in all areas of their mental and physical health.
I specialize in working with clients who suffer from ARFID, OCD and other eating disorders.
Welcome, you are so brave for exploring therapy options. Struggling with constant thoughts about anxiety, compulsions, food and your body is exhausting. You don't have to go it alone or feel trapped anymore. I specialize in the treatment of children, teens and adults with anxiety, OCD, ARFID and other eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. I am passionate about providing evidence-based treatment to help you reach your goals, improve your quality of life and achieve lasting recovery. My holistic treatment style allows me to help support my clients in all areas of their mental and physical health.
(602) 698-8852 View (602) 698-8852
Photo of Jenna Daniel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Jenna Daniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Waitlist for new clients
OCD is often misunderstood and mistreated.
Feeling stuck in anxiety and fear can be overwhelming and isolating, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Together, we can navigate through these challenges and work towards finding relief and a sense of empowerment. I am a trauma informed therapist, treating trauma and stress-related disorders, OCD and other compulsive disorders, and mood disorders. As you courageously step into therapy, I am here to support you every step of the way. I take pride in using evidence-based treatments and take an integrated approach to providing therapy.
OCD is often misunderstood and mistreated.
Feeling stuck in anxiety and fear can be overwhelming and isolating, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Together, we can navigate through these challenges and work towards finding relief and a sense of empowerment. I am a trauma informed therapist, treating trauma and stress-related disorders, OCD and other compulsive disorders, and mood disorders. As you courageously step into therapy, I am here to support you every step of the way. I take pride in using evidence-based treatments and take an integrated approach to providing therapy.
(602) 560-6052 View (602) 560-6052
Photo of Present Solutions, Counselor in Arizona
Present Solutions
Counselor, LPCC, LADAC, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
I am a mindfulness--centered psychotherapist and have worked very successfully with anxiety, OCD, addiction (alcohol, marijuana, vaping, shopping), panic, trauma, depression, phobias, impulse control issues, stress and other issues of suffering. Mindfulness-centered therapy works remarkably well even with the most difficult to treat issues. It addresses the root cause of emotional suffering, bringing you to a place of lasting inner peace and contentment. It will help you to deal successfully with the triggers that life continuously presents to you. To view my video and written testimonials, click on the website box above.
I am a mindfulness--centered psychotherapist and have worked very successfully with anxiety, OCD, addiction (alcohol, marijuana, vaping, shopping), panic, trauma, depression, phobias, impulse control issues, stress and other issues of suffering. Mindfulness-centered therapy works remarkably well even with the most difficult to treat issues. It addresses the root cause of emotional suffering, bringing you to a place of lasting inner peace and contentment. It will help you to deal successfully with the triggers that life continuously presents to you. To view my video and written testimonials, click on the website box above.
(505) 506-3886 View (505) 506-3886
Photo of Adam R von Passow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Adam R von Passow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
I specialize in several different forms of therapy including EMDR which is an effective therapy for many different issues including PTSD, trauma, processing the past, depression, anxiety, OCD, and grief/loss.
When life is challenging, we all need support, understanding, respect, and compassion. As humans, we benefit greatly by connecting with a support system so we understand we are not alone on this journey. Psychotherapy is our chance to connect to that support in a safe environment where we can explore, learn and grow. We are not always prepared to cope with the challenges that confront us. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), my role is to walk the path with you and begin to develop the skills needed to move through the unexpected challenges of life and heal the past. I work with diverse population and welcome all.
I specialize in several different forms of therapy including EMDR which is an effective therapy for many different issues including PTSD, trauma, processing the past, depression, anxiety, OCD, and grief/loss.
When life is challenging, we all need support, understanding, respect, and compassion. As humans, we benefit greatly by connecting with a support system so we understand we are not alone on this journey. Psychotherapy is our chance to connect to that support in a safe environment where we can explore, learn and grow. We are not always prepared to cope with the challenges that confront us. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), my role is to walk the path with you and begin to develop the skills needed to move through the unexpected challenges of life and heal the past. I work with diverse population and welcome all.
(480) 418-8462 View (480) 418-8462
Photo of Angela Gilchrist Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Angela Gilchrist Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
My name is Angee. I am an LPC with an MA in Professional Mental Health Counseling and a Ph.D. (in progress) in Integrated Mind-Body Medicine, specializing in the holistic treatment of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and OCD. My practice is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of what you are going through with a comprehensive mind-body approach. I blend traditional and innovative therapies, tailored to meet your individual needs and foster deep healing.
My name is Angee. I am an LPC with an MA in Professional Mental Health Counseling and a Ph.D. (in progress) in Integrated Mind-Body Medicine, specializing in the holistic treatment of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and OCD. My practice is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of what you are going through with a comprehensive mind-body approach. I blend traditional and innovative therapies, tailored to meet your individual needs and foster deep healing.
(623) 462-0115 View (623) 462-0115
Photo of Jen Zimmerman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Jen Zimmerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85716  (Online Only)
Using a straight forward, respectful, non-blaming approach to counseling, my specialities include OCD, recovery from narcissistic abuse, life transitions, sexuality, grief/loss, co-dependency, self esteem, body image, gender expression, anxiety, depression, and family of origin issues. I will often utilize journaling, narrative therapies, EMDR, grounding and somatic techniques, mindfulness, archetypes, meditation, art, and Internal Family Systems into our sessions.
Using a straight forward, respectful, non-blaming approach to counseling, my specialities include OCD, recovery from narcissistic abuse, life transitions, sexuality, grief/loss, co-dependency, self esteem, body image, gender expression, anxiety, depression, and family of origin issues. I will often utilize journaling, narrative therapies, EMDR, grounding and somatic techniques, mindfulness, archetypes, meditation, art, and Internal Family Systems into our sessions.
(520) 464-4670 View (520) 464-4670
Photo of Shawn Foltz Emmons, Psychologist in Arizona
Shawn Foltz Emmons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
(480) 207-3432 View (480) 207-3432
Photo of Lauryn Drache, Counselor in Arizona
Lauryn Drache
Counselor
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
My goal is assisting clients with identifying and addressing internal and interpersonal goals by breaking cycles that do not work for them. The goal is to have clients gain autonomy and empowerment to address complex issues and concerns pragmatically, effectively, and consistently. Demographics include teens, young adults, and adults (individual session). The populations I work with include Developmental Trauma and/or Trauma, SMI, Personality Disorders, BFRB, Bipolar Disorder, and Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD, and OCD). I utilize a multi-modal approach to ensure clients receive services that best meet their individualized needs.
My goal is assisting clients with identifying and addressing internal and interpersonal goals by breaking cycles that do not work for them. The goal is to have clients gain autonomy and empowerment to address complex issues and concerns pragmatically, effectively, and consistently. Demographics include teens, young adults, and adults (individual session). The populations I work with include Developmental Trauma and/or Trauma, SMI, Personality Disorders, BFRB, Bipolar Disorder, and Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD, and OCD). I utilize a multi-modal approach to ensure clients receive services that best meet their individualized needs.
(480) 750-7534 x2 View (480) 750-7534 x2
Photo of Valeria (Leera) Tripp, Counselor in Arizona
Valeria (Leera) Tripp
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85013  (Online Only)
I do believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. I bring years of experience working with adolescent and adult individuals struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), eating disorders, anxiety/depression, grief, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD).
I do believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. I bring years of experience working with adolescent and adult individuals struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), eating disorders, anxiety/depression, grief, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD).
(602) 878-9276 View (602) 878-9276
Photo of Cheryl Zinkan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Cheryl Zinkan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
Are you seeking support with challenging life transitions, intense emotions, or relationship issues? I am a compassionate advocate for positive change and emotional well-being. With a wealth of expertise, I specialize in a wide range of areas, including working with individuals and couples experiencing trauma, complex PTSD, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, recovering from abuse, OCD, ADHD, relationship issues, and dissociation. Additionally, I possess a deep understanding of experiences within the LGBTQ+ community and am dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space for all my clients.
Are you seeking support with challenging life transitions, intense emotions, or relationship issues? I am a compassionate advocate for positive change and emotional well-being. With a wealth of expertise, I specialize in a wide range of areas, including working with individuals and couples experiencing trauma, complex PTSD, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, recovering from abuse, OCD, ADHD, relationship issues, and dissociation. Additionally, I possess a deep understanding of experiences within the LGBTQ+ community and am dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space for all my clients.
(480) 630-9904 View (480) 630-9904
Photo of Jill D Fishburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Jill D Fishburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85226  (Online Only)
I use a strength-based approach to help clients get from where they are to where they want to be in life. I am skilled in working with adolescents and adults, but do not do couples therapy. I provide counseling for those experiencing difficulties with Anxiety, OCD, Depression and those coping with Grief, Loss and Trauma. I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, CBT, and somatic exercises to individualize therapy for each clients needs. I provide a non-judgemental environment where clients can feel safe and secure when working towards healing.
I use a strength-based approach to help clients get from where they are to where they want to be in life. I am skilled in working with adolescents and adults, but do not do couples therapy. I provide counseling for those experiencing difficulties with Anxiety, OCD, Depression and those coping with Grief, Loss and Trauma. I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, CBT, and somatic exercises to individualize therapy for each clients needs. I provide a non-judgemental environment where clients can feel safe and secure when working towards healing.
(602) 903-6336 View (602) 903-6336
Photo of Restored Hope Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Restored Hope Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, LAC, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85742
Have you found therapy unhelpful in the past? If you are looking for a change and a new approach, we can help. Our team of skilled therapists have decades of experience helping individuals, couples and families overcome life's hurdles and feel fulfilled. We offer specialization in PTSD, CPTSD, developmental, religious and other specific trauma, working with neurodivergent individuals, borderline, narcissistic and anti-social personalities, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, addiction, disassociation and chronic pain. We strive for cultural competency and are passionate about LGBTQ & gender identity issues.
Have you found therapy unhelpful in the past? If you are looking for a change and a new approach, we can help. Our team of skilled therapists have decades of experience helping individuals, couples and families overcome life's hurdles and feel fulfilled. We offer specialization in PTSD, CPTSD, developmental, religious and other specific trauma, working with neurodivergent individuals, borderline, narcissistic and anti-social personalities, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, addiction, disassociation and chronic pain. We strive for cultural competency and are passionate about LGBTQ & gender identity issues.
(520) 210-5797 View (520) 210-5797
Photo of Sandra A Tursini, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Sandra A Tursini
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
A significant part of my experience has been treating individuals with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, grief, mood disorders, co-dependency, family, pre-marital, parenting issues, work issues, OCD, sleep disorders, phobias, addiction, psychosomatic and chronic pain, as well as stress issues that may be impacting their physical health.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Private Practice, with over 30 years of experience in individual, family, marital, divorce, blended family, child and adolescent counseling, and veteran's issues. During that time, I have developed an understanding of human nature that guides me down the path to best help each individual. I believe that no one gets through life without some adversity and difficulty. I strive to treat each person as a unique individual and reinforce their worth and dignity. My clients range in ages from 2 through adult, including the geriatric group.
A significant part of my experience has been treating individuals with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, grief, mood disorders, co-dependency, family, pre-marital, parenting issues, work issues, OCD, sleep disorders, phobias, addiction, psychosomatic and chronic pain, as well as stress issues that may be impacting their physical health.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Private Practice, with over 30 years of experience in individual, family, marital, divorce, blended family, child and adolescent counseling, and veteran's issues. During that time, I have developed an understanding of human nature that guides me down the path to best help each individual. I believe that no one gets through life without some adversity and difficulty. I strive to treat each person as a unique individual and reinforce their worth and dignity. My clients range in ages from 2 through adult, including the geriatric group.
(480) 508-9447 View (480) 508-9447
Photo of Michelle Langley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Michelle Langley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85086  (Online Only)
An inclusive therapy practice for healing, growth, and transformation—I specialize in the treatment of complex trauma and anxiety related disorders, including PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder and Disordered Eating.
OH, LIFE. It can be an inspiring, painful, delightful, and confusing adventure. With the many challenges and unknowns that we face along the way, why navigate it alone? Therapy is a supportive, non-judgmental secure space. It is best for identifying and breaking through irrational thought patterns, unresolved emotions, anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, life transitions, and trauma. Whatever your concern, your therapist will listen and attune to you in a compassionate way, offering gentle guidance through a unique fusion of traditional psychotherapy approaches, and integrative healing modalities.
An inclusive therapy practice for healing, growth, and transformation—I specialize in the treatment of complex trauma and anxiety related disorders, including PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder and Disordered Eating.
OH, LIFE. It can be an inspiring, painful, delightful, and confusing adventure. With the many challenges and unknowns that we face along the way, why navigate it alone? Therapy is a supportive, non-judgmental secure space. It is best for identifying and breaking through irrational thought patterns, unresolved emotions, anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, life transitions, and trauma. Whatever your concern, your therapist will listen and attune to you in a compassionate way, offering gentle guidance through a unique fusion of traditional psychotherapy approaches, and integrative healing modalities.
(713) 588-0018 View (713) 588-0018
Photo of Emily Hines, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Emily Hines
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
I truly care about what you are experiencing. Having the right support is the key to being able to overcome areas that are keeping you stuck. You have managed to cope and survive this long, but perhaps it feels like you don't have all of the tools or insights to find true relief from symptoms or difficulties you are experiencing. You are constantly weighed down by anxiety, holding yourself to high standards with little time for restoration, or haunted by the lingering effects of trauma. You are ready for change - perhaps you have tried therapy before and wonder how to really get the most of it.
I truly care about what you are experiencing. Having the right support is the key to being able to overcome areas that are keeping you stuck. You have managed to cope and survive this long, but perhaps it feels like you don't have all of the tools or insights to find true relief from symptoms or difficulties you are experiencing. You are constantly weighed down by anxiety, holding yourself to high standards with little time for restoration, or haunted by the lingering effects of trauma. You are ready for change - perhaps you have tried therapy before and wonder how to really get the most of it.
(623) 304-4015 View (623) 304-4015
Photo of Emily Rosenbloom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Emily Rosenbloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Are you constantly consumed by anxiety and unwanted thoughts? Together, we can build a new relationship with worrying and unresolved trauma and keep it from dictating your life's path. Starting your healing journey can be daunting, but the good news is you don't have to take the first step alone. Together, we will rediscover strategies for handling and effectively managing anxiety. I invite you to take the courageous step toward healing and make yourself a priority today.
Are you constantly consumed by anxiety and unwanted thoughts? Together, we can build a new relationship with worrying and unresolved trauma and keep it from dictating your life's path. Starting your healing journey can be daunting, but the good news is you don't have to take the first step alone. Together, we will rediscover strategies for handling and effectively managing anxiety. I invite you to take the courageous step toward healing and make yourself a priority today.
(773) 717-2502 View (773) 717-2502
Photo of Erica Saunders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Erica Saunders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I honor what makes us unique and appreciate each individual experience. I believe we want to be our best selves and find happiness and enjoyment in our lives. Sometimes discovering what is hindering this growth is found in a supportive, therapeutic relationship. I am a Clinical Therapist with over 20 years working with individuals healing from trauma and couples navigating relationship issues. I believe in the significance of aligning the mind and body and find that awareness of our somatic experiencing and parts (IFS) to be incredibly helpful in increasing feelings of connection, self-compassion and trust in Self.
I honor what makes us unique and appreciate each individual experience. I believe we want to be our best selves and find happiness and enjoyment in our lives. Sometimes discovering what is hindering this growth is found in a supportive, therapeutic relationship. I am a Clinical Therapist with over 20 years working with individuals healing from trauma and couples navigating relationship issues. I believe in the significance of aligning the mind and body and find that awareness of our somatic experiencing and parts (IFS) to be incredibly helpful in increasing feelings of connection, self-compassion and trust in Self.
(520) 597-8261 View (520) 597-8261
Photo of Erica L Van Parys, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Erica L Van Parys
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Everyone experiences stress in their lives. Sometimes this can become overwhelming and seem unmanageable and make you withdraw, isolate, or even become vulnerable to acting out. Whether this is due to school, work, relationships, parenting, or trauma; there are ways to help decrease and restructure the systems that have been affected by severe or prolonged amounts of stress. My name is Erica Van Parys and I am a licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Counseling. I am very holistic in my practice and believe that relationships, connectedness, and collaboration are the key components to success.
Everyone experiences stress in their lives. Sometimes this can become overwhelming and seem unmanageable and make you withdraw, isolate, or even become vulnerable to acting out. Whether this is due to school, work, relationships, parenting, or trauma; there are ways to help decrease and restructure the systems that have been affected by severe or prolonged amounts of stress. My name is Erica Van Parys and I am a licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Counseling. I am very holistic in my practice and believe that relationships, connectedness, and collaboration are the key components to success.
(928) 615-6117 View (928) 615-6117
Photo of Cecilia Imperial, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Cecilia Imperial
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
My name is Cecilia and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I am dedicated to supporting and guiding women and teens in navigating stress, life transitions, grief, and trauma. I offer a safe, nurturing space for your healing journey. With a warm and empathetic approach, I aim to create a trusting therapeutic relationship where you can truly be seen and understood. Together, we will explore practical strategies to manage stress, navigate life transitions with resilience, and process grief.
My name is Cecilia and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I am dedicated to supporting and guiding women and teens in navigating stress, life transitions, grief, and trauma. I offer a safe, nurturing space for your healing journey. With a warm and empathetic approach, I aim to create a trusting therapeutic relationship where you can truly be seen and understood. Together, we will explore practical strategies to manage stress, navigate life transitions with resilience, and process grief.
(928) 770-8564 View (928) 770-8564
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.