Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Arizona

Photo of Michael Zatkowsky, Psychologist in Arizona
Michael Zatkowsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
1st Psychologist in Arizona to treat OCD as a specialty starting 25 years ago, and 1st to attend all available Advanced training to CORRECTLY treat OCD using ERP (Exposure Response Prevention). National Panel of Experts member at the International OCD Annual conference. Treat all OCD Spectrum Disorders, including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) such as Trichotillomania (hair pulling), Dermatillomania (skin-picking), Nail-biting, Cuticle-pulling; Tics; Tourettes Syndrome; Hoarding; Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD); Anxiety Disorders; and Depression. Patients range in age from 3 to 93 years old. Our goal at the OCD Spectrum Clinic is to make us obsolete.
1st Psychologist in Arizona to treat OCD as a specialty starting 25 years ago, and 1st to attend all available Advanced training to CORRECTLY treat OCD using ERP (Exposure Response Prevention). National Panel of Experts member at the International OCD Annual conference. Treat all OCD Spectrum Disorders, including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) such as Trichotillomania (hair pulling), Dermatillomania (skin-picking), Nail-biting, Cuticle-pulling; Tics; Tourettes Syndrome; Hoarding; Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD); Anxiety Disorders; and Depression. Patients range in age from 3 to 93 years old. Our goal at the OCD Spectrum Clinic is to make us obsolete.
(480) 525-8353 View (480) 525-8353
Photo of Embark Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Embark Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85226  (Online Only)
A virtual IOP gives adolescents, teens, and young adults the flexibility to connect with a therapist from home to overcome behavioral health challenges like OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use.
Our therapists are committed to providing your family with the most accessible online therapy to help your adolescent, teenager, or young adult age 12-28 throughout their healing journey. That's why we offer a virtual intensive outpatient program (IOP), providing you with premium online mental health treatment and support. Our insurance-reimbursed virtual intensive outpatient program connects you to a managed care coordination team through our secure patient portal. This is a convenient way for your adolescent, teen, and family to receive our high-quality care when attending in person is not an option.
A virtual IOP gives adolescents, teens, and young adults the flexibility to connect with a therapist from home to overcome behavioral health challenges like OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use.
Our therapists are committed to providing your family with the most accessible online therapy to help your adolescent, teenager, or young adult age 12-28 throughout their healing journey. That's why we offer a virtual intensive outpatient program (IOP), providing you with premium online mental health treatment and support. Our insurance-reimbursed virtual intensive outpatient program connects you to a managed care coordination team through our secure patient portal. This is a convenient way for your adolescent, teen, and family to receive our high-quality care when attending in person is not an option.
(623) 343-6129 View (623) 343-6129
Photo of Mark Treegoob, Psychologist in Arizona
Mark Treegoob
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I specialize in anxiety disorders, including OCD, GAD, hoarding, and panic disorder.
I work with children 13 or over through adolescence, and adults of all ages.
I specialize in anxiety disorders, including OCD, GAD, hoarding, and panic disorder.
I work with children 13 or over through adolescence, and adults of all ages.
(480) 409-2321 View (480) 409-2321
Photo of Kristi Plinski, Counselor in Arizona
Kristi Plinski
Counselor, MSPC, MEd, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist (CCTSI), EMDR Trained, ERP Trained (OCD Treatment).
Currently accepting new clients. Life is an incredible journey. There are times that life events are overwhelming or feel as if they exceed our capacity. These events can lead to anxiety, depression or feelings of being stuck. This level of stress can result in problematic relationships, low self-worth or lack of progress.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist (CCTSI), EMDR Trained, ERP Trained (OCD Treatment).
Currently accepting new clients. Life is an incredible journey. There are times that life events are overwhelming or feel as if they exceed our capacity. These events can lead to anxiety, depression or feelings of being stuck. This level of stress can result in problematic relationships, low self-worth or lack of progress.
(480) 605-1485 View (480) 605-1485
Photo of Mekenna Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Mekenna Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-T
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204
Accepting New Clients. Greetings! I provide a compassionate environment to those needing support with whatever life throws at them. I am particularly passionate about helping those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, anger, trauma, addiction, codependency, OCD, grief and loss and pet bereavement.
Accepting New Clients. Greetings! I provide a compassionate environment to those needing support with whatever life throws at them. I am particularly passionate about helping those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, anger, trauma, addiction, codependency, OCD, grief and loss and pet bereavement.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Elle Fultz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Elle Fultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85201  (Online Only)
Together, we can address intimacy issues, sexual health concerns, communication issues, stress, OCD and additional issues interfering with your well-being.
Currently accepting new clients! Love, self-care, healthy relationships, and communication are essential for people to thrive. We all struggle from time to time in life with relationships, personal growth, setting boundaries, managing stress and difficult emotions. I can help you navigate through each of these challenges. It can be difficult to ask for help, but in doing so you are taking the first step in creating a healthier and more fulfilling life. If what you have tried isn’t working, reach out and get the guidance that you have been searching for. I welcome all identities, orientations, and backgrounds.
Together, we can address intimacy issues, sexual health concerns, communication issues, stress, OCD and additional issues interfering with your well-being.
Currently accepting new clients! Love, self-care, healthy relationships, and communication are essential for people to thrive. We all struggle from time to time in life with relationships, personal growth, setting boundaries, managing stress and difficult emotions. I can help you navigate through each of these challenges. It can be difficult to ask for help, but in doing so you are taking the first step in creating a healthier and more fulfilling life. If what you have tried isn’t working, reach out and get the guidance that you have been searching for. I welcome all identities, orientations, and backgrounds.
(480) 210-7723 View (480) 210-7723
Photo of Jaime Castillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Jaime Castillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with teens and adults who experience Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety Disorders and OCD.
Sometimes our lowest lows offer a foundation from which to rebuild our lives and find wholeness. If you've been feeling anxious or out of control, know there is hope. You do not have to feel this way forever, and you certainly do not need to endure it alone. Today, I hope you find the courage to choose yourself.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with teens and adults who experience Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety Disorders and OCD.
Sometimes our lowest lows offer a foundation from which to rebuild our lives and find wholeness. If you've been feeling anxious or out of control, know there is hope. You do not have to feel this way forever, and you certainly do not need to endure it alone. Today, I hope you find the courage to choose yourself.
(480) 405-0099 View (480) 405-0099
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 Heidi Kaplan, Counselor in Arizona
Heidi Kaplan
Counselor, MA, LAC, CCLS
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
I specialize in working with adults for the treatment of Anxiety Disorders , OCD and phobias, complex PTSD, and difficulty adjusting to a variety of life circumstances.
Welcome! Clients who seek out therapy with me often describe feeling bound by anxiety, overthinking, feeling trapped in a cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsions, phobias, low self-esteem, panic attacks, and suspected or known trauma. These struggles are heavy and imposing, and my clients show up with a strong desire to gain freedom from that which isn't serving them - they just need the right kind of guidance to get there.
I specialize in working with adults for the treatment of Anxiety Disorders , OCD and phobias, complex PTSD, and difficulty adjusting to a variety of life circumstances.
Welcome! Clients who seek out therapy with me often describe feeling bound by anxiety, overthinking, feeling trapped in a cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsions, phobias, low self-esteem, panic attacks, and suspected or known trauma. These struggles are heavy and imposing, and my clients show up with a strong desire to gain freedom from that which isn't serving them - they just need the right kind of guidance to get there.
(623) 624-7695 View (623) 624-7695
Photo of Bridget Henry, Psychologist in Arizona
Bridget Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85022  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety and OCD have a way of misdirecting attention and efforts away from what is most meaningful in life, robbing individuals of the enriching life they desire. In my practice, I am dedicated to helping people unhook from unhelpful cycles of thinking and behaving, reconnect with what matters most to them, and take effective actions toward meaningful change. For some, this means first working together to better understand what your values are and how to get motivated to move towards them. For others, it means diving in to action right away. Whatever stage of your journey you are in, I’d love to help.
Anxiety and OCD have a way of misdirecting attention and efforts away from what is most meaningful in life, robbing individuals of the enriching life they desire. In my practice, I am dedicated to helping people unhook from unhelpful cycles of thinking and behaving, reconnect with what matters most to them, and take effective actions toward meaningful change. For some, this means first working together to better understand what your values are and how to get motivated to move towards them. For others, it means diving in to action right away. Whatever stage of your journey you are in, I’d love to help.
(623) 244-7449 View (623) 244-7449
Photo of Natasha Losey, Counselor in Arizona
Natasha Losey
Counselor, MSN, MSCC, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
I have extensive experience working with individuals suffering from PTSD and trauma, chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, anxiety, OCD, stress, parenting issues, self-esteem issues, DBT, co-dependency, grief, loss, domestic violence, betrayal, anger management, life transitions, relationship issues, and adjustment, and sexual orientation issues.
Hello! My name is Natasha Losey and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor. I have worked with clients and families struggling with various addiction concerns and also mental health issues. I am a solutions focused therapist that believes in providing care that is holistic, trauma informed and person centered. I am passionate about my clients understanding that they are not alone, that they are safe and comfortable in the therapeutic relationship. I am working as a Licensed Associate Counselor at Gilbert Counselors under the direct supervision of Terry Roman, LPC.
I have extensive experience working with individuals suffering from PTSD and trauma, chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, anxiety, OCD, stress, parenting issues, self-esteem issues, DBT, co-dependency, grief, loss, domestic violence, betrayal, anger management, life transitions, relationship issues, and adjustment, and sexual orientation issues.
Hello! My name is Natasha Losey and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor. I have worked with clients and families struggling with various addiction concerns and also mental health issues. I am a solutions focused therapist that believes in providing care that is holistic, trauma informed and person centered. I am passionate about my clients understanding that they are not alone, that they are safe and comfortable in the therapeutic relationship. I am working as a Licensed Associate Counselor at Gilbert Counselors under the direct supervision of Terry Roman, LPC.
(928) 272-6464 View (928) 272-6464
Photo of Littlefield Psychological Services, Psychologist in Arizona
Littlefield Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85382
I have many years of experience with helping people with struggles ranging from eating disorders, OCD, depression, anxiety and addictions.
Are you suffering with Anxiety and Depression? Has something stolen the joy that you used to be able to feel? Are you going through relationship conflict or having a hard time adjusting to changes in your life? I have over 25 years experience treating people suffering from Anxiety, Depression, and relationship problems. I do therapy with individuals or families. If you need to negotiate conflicts, restore relationships, face fears, or overcome depressive symptoms don't hesitate to call. I have many years of experience helping people like you and will respect your spiritual concerns in the process.
I have many years of experience with helping people with struggles ranging from eating disorders, OCD, depression, anxiety and addictions.
Are you suffering with Anxiety and Depression? Has something stolen the joy that you used to be able to feel? Are you going through relationship conflict or having a hard time adjusting to changes in your life? I have over 25 years experience treating people suffering from Anxiety, Depression, and relationship problems. I do therapy with individuals or families. If you need to negotiate conflicts, restore relationships, face fears, or overcome depressive symptoms don't hesitate to call. I have many years of experience helping people like you and will respect your spiritual concerns in the process.
(623) 806-8501 View (623) 806-8501
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 Josh Kaplan - Specialized OCD and Anxiety Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Josh Kaplan - Specialized OCD and Anxiety Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Do you feel caught in a never-ending loop of worries or uncertainty? Maybe you’re troubled by recurrent intrusive thoughts and images? Do certain situations and triggers cause you to freeze up and panic? These, along with depression, are the common concerns my clients present with. Despite their best efforts they can’t seem to find lasting relief. However, there's hope. In my practice, I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), two of the most effective therapies science has given us for overcoming the challenges of Anxiety, OCD, and Depression. I'll help guide you toward peace of mind.
Do you feel caught in a never-ending loop of worries or uncertainty? Maybe you’re troubled by recurrent intrusive thoughts and images? Do certain situations and triggers cause you to freeze up and panic? These, along with depression, are the common concerns my clients present with. Despite their best efforts they can’t seem to find lasting relief. However, there's hope. In my practice, I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), two of the most effective therapies science has given us for overcoming the challenges of Anxiety, OCD, and Depression. I'll help guide you toward peace of mind.
(520) 727-9079 View (520) 727-9079
Photo of Amanda Bull, Counselor in Arizona
Amanda Bull
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
LIMITED availability! Therapy can be scary. Being vulnerable, sharing trauma, facing fears, and experiencing change can feel intimidating and isolating. I offer each client warmth, empathy, compassion, empowerment and a safe place to share their unique story without judgement, bias, or pressure. As a Licensed Associate Counselor, I have professional experience working with individuals who struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, body image issues, and challenging life transitions.
LIMITED availability! Therapy can be scary. Being vulnerable, sharing trauma, facing fears, and experiencing change can feel intimidating and isolating. I offer each client warmth, empathy, compassion, empowerment and a safe place to share their unique story without judgement, bias, or pressure. As a Licensed Associate Counselor, I have professional experience working with individuals who struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, body image issues, and challenging life transitions.
(520) 447-4414 View (520) 447-4414
Photo of Dr. Nafisa Sekandari, Psychologist in Arizona
Dr. Nafisa Sekandari
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392
For California and Arizona Residents only: Through Telehealth and online therapy, my practice serves children, teens, adults, elder adults, and families. Services include individual and family therapy. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, dementia/Alzheimer's, and childhood behavior issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy such as CBT, EFT, Environmental and Dietary focus, as well as mindfulness and meditation. Specialties include working with ethnic minorities from the Arab, South Asian, Afghan, or Muslim communities. I'm bilingual in English and Dari/Farsi. Learn more: transforminganxiety.com
For California and Arizona Residents only: Through Telehealth and online therapy, my practice serves children, teens, adults, elder adults, and families. Services include individual and family therapy. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, dementia/Alzheimer's, and childhood behavior issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy such as CBT, EFT, Environmental and Dietary focus, as well as mindfulness and meditation. Specialties include working with ethnic minorities from the Arab, South Asian, Afghan, or Muslim communities. I'm bilingual in English and Dari/Farsi. Learn more: transforminganxiety.com
(480) 845-0528 View (480) 845-0528
Photo of CalmOCD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
CalmOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
At CalmOCD we treat individuals ages 5 and up with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Eating Disorders, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Hair Pulling, Skin Picking, Agoraphobia, Phobias, and co-occurring Depression. We are currently offering in-person services in Scottsdale, and a NEW office in Tucson, AZ and telehealth services in AZ, TX, IL, NC and MN. In addition, CalmOCD provides single sessions and an intensive track for treatment (we can see someone up to 3 hours a day for however many weeks is needed). We can also do home-visits, school visits, and community based exposures.
At CalmOCD we treat individuals ages 5 and up with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Eating Disorders, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Hair Pulling, Skin Picking, Agoraphobia, Phobias, and co-occurring Depression. We are currently offering in-person services in Scottsdale, and a NEW office in Tucson, AZ and telehealth services in AZ, TX, IL, NC and MN. In addition, CalmOCD provides single sessions and an intensive track for treatment (we can see someone up to 3 hours a day for however many weeks is needed). We can also do home-visits, school visits, and community based exposures.
(623) 292-7593 View (623) 292-7593
Photo of Molly Mahoney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Molly Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I am Independently licensed and have 20 yrs of experience treating individuals who may be struggling with the following: depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, substance use, life transitions and relationship struggles.
Making the decision to begin therapy is not an easy one, but the therapeutic process can help you to understand the reason for your symptoms and behaviors, and assist you in making desired changes. My perspective is strength based and together we can work to identify obstacles, which may be getting in the way of achieving your goals. My approach is warm, respectful and empathetic. I am committed to best practices and am trained in EMDR and ERP. Incorporating various treatment modalities, I offer individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults, and am trained in couples and family therapy.
I am Independently licensed and have 20 yrs of experience treating individuals who may be struggling with the following: depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, substance use, life transitions and relationship struggles.
Making the decision to begin therapy is not an easy one, but the therapeutic process can help you to understand the reason for your symptoms and behaviors, and assist you in making desired changes. My perspective is strength based and together we can work to identify obstacles, which may be getting in the way of achieving your goals. My approach is warm, respectful and empathetic. I am committed to best practices and am trained in EMDR and ERP. Incorporating various treatment modalities, I offer individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults, and am trained in couples and family therapy.
(480) 800-8121 View (480) 800-8121
Photo of Gabriela Huber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Gabriela Huber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, MBA
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85750
Do you struggle with anxiety? You're not alone. Anxiety affects approximately 19% of the population, yet finding lasting relief can be elusive. That's where I come in. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and related conditions such as OCD, panic, and phobias, employing proven modalities like ERP, CBT, and i-CBT. Whether you're an adult, child, or part of a family, I provide therapy in both English and Spanish.
Do you struggle with anxiety? You're not alone. Anxiety affects approximately 19% of the population, yet finding lasting relief can be elusive. That's where I come in. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and related conditions such as OCD, panic, and phobias, employing proven modalities like ERP, CBT, and i-CBT. Whether you're an adult, child, or part of a family, I provide therapy in both English and Spanish.
(520) 335-9632 View (520) 335-9632
Photo of Janet Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Janet Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include Anxiety, OCD, Depression and other mood disorders, relationship issues, family issues, and navigating difficult life changes that impact mental health.
I have extensive experience helping people make positive change in their lives utilizing a comprehensive approach. Treatment modalities include solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, and EMDR. My ideal client is anyone who wishes to live a happier, healthier life.
My specialties include Anxiety, OCD, Depression and other mood disorders, relationship issues, family issues, and navigating difficult life changes that impact mental health.
I have extensive experience helping people make positive change in their lives utilizing a comprehensive approach. Treatment modalities include solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, and EMDR. My ideal client is anyone who wishes to live a happier, healthier life.
(262) 332-4137 View (262) 332-4137
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.