Photo of OCD Clinic Community West in Los Angeles, CA
OCD Clinic Community West
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
At Community West we conduct a thorough assessment to determine the severity of a person’s OCD using the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale.
OCD is a debilitating condition that consists of irrational or excessive fears and concerns that become obsessive and manifest as intrusive, unwanted, disturbing thoughts, images or impulses. These obsessions are accompanied by repetitive and time-consuming mental and behavioral acts called rituals or compulsions that are done to prevent bad things associated with the obsessions from happening. Avoidance is the third component of OCD, which involves deliberately staying away from things, people and places that trigger or worsen obsessive fears and concerns, or to avoid the risk of some dreaded event.
At Community West we conduct a thorough assessment to determine the severity of a person’s OCD using the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale.
OCD is a debilitating condition that consists of irrational or excessive fears and concerns that become obsessive and manifest as intrusive, unwanted, disturbing thoughts, images or impulses. These obsessions are accompanied by repetitive and time-consuming mental and behavioral acts called rituals or compulsions that are done to prevent bad things associated with the obsessions from happening. Avoidance is the third component of OCD, which involves deliberately staying away from things, people and places that trigger or worsen obsessive fears and concerns, or to avoid the risk of some dreaded event.
(424) 377-7286 View (424) 377-7286
Photo of Jeongeun Moon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jeongeun Moon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90010
My clients are individuals who are navigating the complexities of trauma, as well as related challenges such as anxiety, depression, and harm OCD. Understanding that each person's experience is unique, I collaborate closely with my clients from the outset to establish tailored therapy goals. In our initial session, we lay the groundwork for our journey together, focusing on objectives that often encompass symptom alleviation, functional enhancement, the development of coping skills, increased self-awareness, and the cultivation of deep, transformative insights.
My clients are individuals who are navigating the complexities of trauma, as well as related challenges such as anxiety, depression, and harm OCD. Understanding that each person's experience is unique, I collaborate closely with my clients from the outset to establish tailored therapy goals. In our initial session, we lay the groundwork for our journey together, focusing on objectives that often encompass symptom alleviation, functional enhancement, the development of coping skills, increased self-awareness, and the cultivation of deep, transformative insights.
(805) 876-9894 View (805) 876-9894
Photo of Kim Cox, Anxiety & Parenting Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kim Cox, Anxiety & Parenting Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035
Kim is an integrated, relationship-based LGBTQIA+ affirming and neurodiversity Affirming Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in treatment of anxiety and OCD-spectrum with kids, teens and adults and parenting kids with anxious emotions (SPACE and SPACE-FTL) as well as parents navigating systems around supporting a neurodiverse child.
One's experience with fear, stress, sadness or uncomfortable feelings in general can have major impacts on how we view ourselves and the world. However, when provided with therapeutic guidance, collaboration, skills training, education and support, I have learned that one can cultivate courage, growth and resilience that allows them to reengage in life in meaningful ways. The process of therapy is a collaborative one and I believe that the relationship we develop through our work together should aid in instilling hope and increasing motivation to tackle whatever challenges you face.
Kim is an integrated, relationship-based LGBTQIA+ affirming and neurodiversity Affirming Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in treatment of anxiety and OCD-spectrum with kids, teens and adults and parenting kids with anxious emotions (SPACE and SPACE-FTL) as well as parents navigating systems around supporting a neurodiverse child.
One's experience with fear, stress, sadness or uncomfortable feelings in general can have major impacts on how we view ourselves and the world. However, when provided with therapeutic guidance, collaboration, skills training, education and support, I have learned that one can cultivate courage, growth and resilience that allows them to reengage in life in meaningful ways. The process of therapy is a collaborative one and I believe that the relationship we develop through our work together should aid in instilling hope and increasing motivation to tackle whatever challenges you face.
(323) 870-6462 View (323) 870-6462
Photo of Rachel Nebel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Rachel Nebel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My clinical background includes working with adolescents (ages 10+) and young adults in both a school based setting and outpatient mental health facilities. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety, depression, perfectionism and life transitions. I take an integrative approach using evidence-based practices such as Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and combine them with mindfulness practices.
My clinical background includes working with adolescents (ages 10+) and young adults in both a school based setting and outpatient mental health facilities. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety, depression, perfectionism and life transitions. I take an integrative approach using evidence-based practices such as Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and combine them with mindfulness practices.
(424) 287-1580 View (424) 287-1580
Photo of Melanie R. Hudson, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Melanie R. Hudson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for adults and young adults experiencing OCD, and related anxiety spectrum disorders. Typical clients are high-functioning adults who struggle to manage their symptoms daily. I can travel to nearby areas for Exposure & Response prevention therapy to treat OCD, phobias, or other issues requiring this intensive treatment.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for adults and young adults experiencing OCD, and related anxiety spectrum disorders. Typical clients are high-functioning adults who struggle to manage their symptoms daily. I can travel to nearby areas for Exposure & Response prevention therapy to treat OCD, phobias, or other issues requiring this intensive treatment.
(310) 701-5103 View (310) 701-5103
Photo of Savannah Hemmig, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Savannah Hemmig
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035
I specialize in treating OCD and OCD-related disorders with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) who earned my degrees from the University of Southern California. I am an integrative contextual therapist who uses a variety of interventions to best suit each client. I draw from my diverse background in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), mindfulness, radical acceptance, regulation skills, Seeking Safety, harm reduction, and always trauma oriented.
I specialize in treating OCD and OCD-related disorders with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) who earned my degrees from the University of Southern California. I am an integrative contextual therapist who uses a variety of interventions to best suit each client. I draw from my diverse background in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), mindfulness, radical acceptance, regulation skills, Seeking Safety, harm reduction, and always trauma oriented.
(323) 927-1241 View (323) 927-1241
Photo of John X Gaspar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
John X Gaspar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in providing mental health services for those with psychological disorders and behavioral-emotional concerns. As a former Research Associate at UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience, I come from a neuro-psychological background and have over ten years of experience as a mental health professional. I treat a wide range of psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, OCD, and behavioral disorders. Together with cognitive-behavioral techniques and therapeutic insights, we will work to help you overcome insecurities, embrace growth, and maximize your overall wellbeing.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in providing mental health services for those with psychological disorders and behavioral-emotional concerns. As a former Research Associate at UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience, I come from a neuro-psychological background and have over ten years of experience as a mental health professional. I treat a wide range of psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, OCD, and behavioral disorders. Together with cognitive-behavioral techniques and therapeutic insights, we will work to help you overcome insecurities, embrace growth, and maximize your overall wellbeing.
(213) 699-4233 View (213) 699-4233
Photo of Kristen McDonald, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Kristen McDonald
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My practice, which is located in West Los Angeles, offers customized, personalized psychological services to adults of all ages who are experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma, insomnia, relationship concerns, or other struggles that are interfering in their ability to feel fully alive and satisfied. My focus is on providing weekly individual therapy as well as referrals to other services as needed. I am also currently offering an OCD group on Tuesday evenings.
My practice, which is located in West Los Angeles, offers customized, personalized psychological services to adults of all ages who are experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma, insomnia, relationship concerns, or other struggles that are interfering in their ability to feel fully alive and satisfied. My focus is on providing weekly individual therapy as well as referrals to other services as needed. I am also currently offering an OCD group on Tuesday evenings.
(424) 484-0587 View (424) 484-0587
Photo of Seth Sultan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Seth Sultan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of complex trauma, OCD, depression and anxiety. I strive to create safety with each person I work with so we can explore what is going on emotionally, physically, cognitively and spiritually. Trauma and stress live in the body and, in my experience, an integrated approach is most helpful, where we pay attention to feelings, physical sensations, thoughts, behaviors and images that arise during sessions. I also utilize mindfulness, and inner child healing. We will work together moving towards your goals, so that as you feel better, you will have more freedom to become the person you want to be.
I specialize in the treatment of complex trauma, OCD, depression and anxiety. I strive to create safety with each person I work with so we can explore what is going on emotionally, physically, cognitively and spiritually. Trauma and stress live in the body and, in my experience, an integrated approach is most helpful, where we pay attention to feelings, physical sensations, thoughts, behaviors and images that arise during sessions. I also utilize mindfulness, and inner child healing. We will work together moving towards your goals, so that as you feel better, you will have more freedom to become the person you want to be.
(424) 320-6354 View (424) 320-6354
Photo of Lauren Wahlen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lauren Wahlen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90063  (Online Only)
I’m a trauma-informed licensed clinical social worker, specializing in adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and/or OCD.
Life is HARD. It’d be great if we were each given an individualized user manual from the moment we were born, but that’s not how life works (unfortunately). Even though we don’t come with our own set of instructions for living our best life, we DO have the option to seek support from experts who can make our healing journey feel a bit more doable. Realizing that we are worthy of a better life, one filled with joy and fulfillment, is truly the hardest step. The next hardest step is asking for help, and you’re doing that right now by searching for a therapist! Whether you choose to work with me or find someone else, I’m proud of you!
I’m a trauma-informed licensed clinical social worker, specializing in adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and/or OCD.
Life is HARD. It’d be great if we were each given an individualized user manual from the moment we were born, but that’s not how life works (unfortunately). Even though we don’t come with our own set of instructions for living our best life, we DO have the option to seek support from experts who can make our healing journey feel a bit more doable. Realizing that we are worthy of a better life, one filled with joy and fulfillment, is truly the hardest step. The next hardest step is asking for help, and you’re doing that right now by searching for a therapist! Whether you choose to work with me or find someone else, I’m proud of you!
(323) 766-6353 View (323) 766-6353
Photo of Stasia McGlade, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Stasia McGlade
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I approach therapy with warmth, compassion, nonjudgment, and cultural sensitivity. While I work with a broad range of mental health conditions, my areas of particular specialty are in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, addiction, OCD, trauma, and borderline personality disorder. I strive to provide an environment that encourages authenticity, recognizing that therapy can be a vulnerable and challenging process that also offers an invaluable path towards healing and recovery.
I approach therapy with warmth, compassion, nonjudgment, and cultural sensitivity. While I work with a broad range of mental health conditions, my areas of particular specialty are in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, addiction, OCD, trauma, and borderline personality disorder. I strive to provide an environment that encourages authenticity, recognizing that therapy can be a vulnerable and challenging process that also offers an invaluable path towards healing and recovery.
(310) 876-2619 View (310) 876-2619
Photo of Christopher Nuñez, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Christopher Nuñez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist with over 20 years of experience in assessment and treatment of individuals across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and older adults) diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders. I also work with clients who have neurocognitive and/or other medical conditions, emphasizing cognitive rehabilitation and behavioral medicine strategies to promote and improve overall health and quality of life (e.g. treatment for insomnia, stress management, behavioral changes to improve health, and adjustment to medical diagnosis).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist with over 20 years of experience in assessment and treatment of individuals across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and older adults) diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders. I also work with clients who have neurocognitive and/or other medical conditions, emphasizing cognitive rehabilitation and behavioral medicine strategies to promote and improve overall health and quality of life (e.g. treatment for insomnia, stress management, behavioral changes to improve health, and adjustment to medical diagnosis).
(424) 523-8984 View (424) 523-8984
Photo of Dr. Christina M. Charlotin, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Christina M. Charlotin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
(323) 508-2096 View (323) 508-2096
Photo of Claudia Miles, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Claudia Miles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
If you're interested in working on hair pulling and/or skin picking, please also check my website and blog HelpForHairPullers.
I work with clients on issues ranging from depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction to relationship, career and identity issues and I work with couples. I’ve had a specialty in hair pulling and skin picking since 2001: See my website.  I use many theories in my work—psychodynamic, Jungian dreamwork and mindfulness practice to name a few—but my style is existential humanistic, working in the present. I see the ultimate goal as supporting you in living from an authentic, empowered place, feeling a sense of inner security, hearing and trusting your true inner voice—not the inner critic—and having a strong sense of self to guide you in life.
If you're interested in working on hair pulling and/or skin picking, please also check my website and blog HelpForHairPullers.
I work with clients on issues ranging from depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction to relationship, career and identity issues and I work with couples. I’ve had a specialty in hair pulling and skin picking since 2001: See my website.  I use many theories in my work—psychodynamic, Jungian dreamwork and mindfulness practice to name a few—but my style is existential humanistic, working in the present. I see the ultimate goal as supporting you in living from an authentic, empowered place, feeling a sense of inner security, hearing and trusting your true inner voice—not the inner critic—and having a strong sense of self to guide you in life.
(628) 500-8235 View (628) 500-8235
Photo of Prerna Martin, Registered Psychological Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Prerna Martin
Registered Psychological Associate, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I specialize in evidence-based treatments for children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and behavior problems. I have extensive experience working with clients from diverse, multicultural backgrounds. I strive to provide therapy that is grounded in science, while honoring the unique needs of each individual. My approach is deeply relational, and I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to understand your struggles and learn new tools. I am passionate about empowering clients to face their fears, change unhelpful patterns, heal from trauma, and develop more self-compassion.
I specialize in evidence-based treatments for children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and behavior problems. I have extensive experience working with clients from diverse, multicultural backgrounds. I strive to provide therapy that is grounded in science, while honoring the unique needs of each individual. My approach is deeply relational, and I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to understand your struggles and learn new tools. I am passionate about empowering clients to face their fears, change unhelpful patterns, heal from trauma, and develop more self-compassion.
(424) 203-0676 View (424) 203-0676
Photo of Dr. Jami Kerr, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Jami Kerr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with OCD, and I am a queer-identified and affirmative, sex-positive therapist experienced in working with a spectrum of sexual orientations, identities, and relationships. I help individuals and couples interested in discussing interests in kink and consensual non-monogamy. If you are experiencing marginalization or shame around aspects of your identity, we'll work together on how you can gain more freedom to be fully yourself.
I specialize in working with OCD, and I am a queer-identified and affirmative, sex-positive therapist experienced in working with a spectrum of sexual orientations, identities, and relationships. I help individuals and couples interested in discussing interests in kink and consensual non-monogamy. If you are experiencing marginalization or shame around aspects of your identity, we'll work together on how you can gain more freedom to be fully yourself.
(747) 318-4760 View (747) 318-4760
Photo of Emily DeVercelly, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Emily DeVercelly
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Whether you or your teen struggle with OCD, anxiety, body image, or a life change, you are not alone & you are deserving of support.
Are you tired of worrying about the what ifs? What if you don't do or eat the "right" thing? What if the thing you fear most comes true? You've done everything the "right way" yet the what ifs and rules continue to change and the goals continue to move. You're left feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, irritable, lonely, or paralyzed with dread.
Whether you or your teen struggle with OCD, anxiety, body image, or a life change, you are not alone & you are deserving of support.
Are you tired of worrying about the what ifs? What if you don't do or eat the "right" thing? What if the thing you fear most comes true? You've done everything the "right way" yet the what ifs and rules continue to change and the goals continue to move. You're left feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, irritable, lonely, or paralyzed with dread.
(424) 396-0360 View (424) 396-0360
Photo of Tamar Levran-Galai, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Tamar Levran-Galai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by anxiety, OCD, relationship issues? There are times in life when we need support. It takes courage to seek help and I am glad you are here. I support individuals and families in navigating life's challenges. Relationship with ourselves or with our loved ones are where we struggle the most. As Licensed MFT I specializing in treating Anxiety, OCD and relationships setbacks. With more than 10 years of experience in Israel and in California, I am passionate about helping my clients and their family to overcome struggles and move towards well-being, flexibility, balance, and fulfillment in life.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by anxiety, OCD, relationship issues? There are times in life when we need support. It takes courage to seek help and I am glad you are here. I support individuals and families in navigating life's challenges. Relationship with ourselves or with our loved ones are where we struggle the most. As Licensed MFT I specializing in treating Anxiety, OCD and relationships setbacks. With more than 10 years of experience in Israel and in California, I am passionate about helping my clients and their family to overcome struggles and move towards well-being, flexibility, balance, and fulfillment in life.
(310) 361-5528 View (310) 361-5528
Photo of Sarah Segal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sarah Segal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I specialize in treating OCD and other anxiety spectrum disorders (Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobias).
Have you noticed that it's in the places you are supposed to be most relaxed (meditation, vacation, weekends, sleep) that your mind feels louder than ever? It might feel like the idea of letting your thoughts go is meant for “normal” people and that does not include you. Maybe you stand guard to keep yourself from your worst case, as if your attention to your thoughts keeps you from descending into unimaginable fear. All the advice you get from those closest to you feels so out of touch with the agony of daily doubts around the things that matter most. I can help you sift through the noise and regain your confidence in yourself.
I specialize in treating OCD and other anxiety spectrum disorders (Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobias).
Have you noticed that it's in the places you are supposed to be most relaxed (meditation, vacation, weekends, sleep) that your mind feels louder than ever? It might feel like the idea of letting your thoughts go is meant for “normal” people and that does not include you. Maybe you stand guard to keep yourself from your worst case, as if your attention to your thoughts keeps you from descending into unimaginable fear. All the advice you get from those closest to you feels so out of touch with the agony of daily doubts around the things that matter most. I can help you sift through the noise and regain your confidence in yourself.
(310) 564-6721 View (310) 564-6721
Photo of James Poole, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
James Poole
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90018
As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, my passion lies in understanding and supporting individuals with unique interests. Both my therapy work and past research work in my dissertation focus on helping to cultivate the elements of our lives we love and how to use those passions to bridge the distance between ourselves and communities where we can thrive. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or something else - my goal is to make therapy an approachable space for you to thrive.
As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, my passion lies in understanding and supporting individuals with unique interests. Both my therapy work and past research work in my dissertation focus on helping to cultivate the elements of our lives we love and how to use those passions to bridge the distance between ourselves and communities where we can thrive. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or something else - my goal is to make therapy an approachable space for you to thrive.
(844) 967-2597 View (844) 967-2597

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.