Photo of Esther Crater, Psychologist in California
Esther Crater
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
Dr. Crater is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who has been practicing since 2008. She has over 14 years of experience in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), treating individuals 16 years and older with anxiety and mood disorders, including generalized anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and major depressive disorder. Therapy is individualized to help patients develop tools for long-term management of feelings and behaviors.
Dr. Crater is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who has been practicing since 2008. She has over 14 years of experience in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), treating individuals 16 years and older with anxiety and mood disorders, including generalized anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and major depressive disorder. Therapy is individualized to help patients develop tools for long-term management of feelings and behaviors.
(951) 916-3316 View (951) 916-3316
Photo of Darilyn McElfresh, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Darilyn McElfresh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
I allocate my time and practice between two specific and unique issues: one being sexually related problems, the other being OCD. With sexually related issues, they can show up as relationship problems, infidelity, arousal discrepancy, or LGBT matters. Likewise, with OCD, there are many different forms and subtypes: harm, scrupulosity, contamination, sexual, symmetry/order/balance/just right. I am trained and experienced in both fields, utilizing tools and interventions to treat one or the other, and sometimes both.
I allocate my time and practice between two specific and unique issues: one being sexually related problems, the other being OCD. With sexually related issues, they can show up as relationship problems, infidelity, arousal discrepancy, or LGBT matters. Likewise, with OCD, there are many different forms and subtypes: harm, scrupulosity, contamination, sexual, symmetry/order/balance/just right. I am trained and experienced in both fields, utilizing tools and interventions to treat one or the other, and sometimes both.
(805) 250-4193 View (805) 250-4193
Photo of Danielle R Biggs, Psychologist in California
Danielle R Biggs
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711  (Online Only)
I work with adults, adolescents, and children in individual psychotherapy, treating disorders such as panic, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, OCD and depression.
Are you holding on to things from your past which prevent you from moving forward? Can you picture the type of person you want to be... yet feel that something is always in the way, or stops you? If you answered yes, you are not alone. Feeling "stuck" can cause depression, anxiety or a host of other physical and emotional problems. I can help you understand how thoughts, feelings and behaviors interact to affect your well being. Utilizing a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I will help you understand the underlying source of troubles and develop realistic alternatives to resolving issues.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children in individual psychotherapy, treating disorders such as panic, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, OCD and depression.
Are you holding on to things from your past which prevent you from moving forward? Can you picture the type of person you want to be... yet feel that something is always in the way, or stops you? If you answered yes, you are not alone. Feeling "stuck" can cause depression, anxiety or a host of other physical and emotional problems. I can help you understand how thoughts, feelings and behaviors interact to affect your well being. Utilizing a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I will help you understand the underlying source of troubles and develop realistic alternatives to resolving issues.
(559) 425-6900 View (559) 425-6900
Photo of Melyssa Depaolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Melyssa Depaolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westminster, CA 92683
Other specialty areas include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, OCD, self-esteem, substance abuse, and LGBTQ+ affirming.
Sometimes it may feel like the world is against you, or you're alone and no one will understand. Life can be pretty tough, whether you're experiencing anxiety or sadness, had a recent loss, dealing with adoption and attachment as a parent or child, challenges with coming out and/or identifying as LGBTQ, or experienced a traumatic event, etc. Making the decision to begin your therapeutic journey can be scary and uncomfortable, but can also be empowering. Mental and emotional health is as important and real as physical health, and it's my goal to support and be a factor for change while you grow into a healthier and truer self.
Other specialty areas include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, OCD, self-esteem, substance abuse, and LGBTQ+ affirming.
Sometimes it may feel like the world is against you, or you're alone and no one will understand. Life can be pretty tough, whether you're experiencing anxiety or sadness, had a recent loss, dealing with adoption and attachment as a parent or child, challenges with coming out and/or identifying as LGBTQ, or experienced a traumatic event, etc. Making the decision to begin your therapeutic journey can be scary and uncomfortable, but can also be empowering. Mental and emotional health is as important and real as physical health, and it's my goal to support and be a factor for change while you grow into a healthier and truer self.
(657) 837-1525 View (657) 837-1525
Photo of Lindsay I Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Lindsay I Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I work well with individual adults wanting to manage stress, mood, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, adjust to life transitions or improve their relationships.
Are you ready to put in the work to improve the quality of your life and relationships? I help clients get out of their own way by helping them find more helpful thought and action paths forward. If you are an individual wanting to find a path towards a happier, calmer and more fulfilling life and relationships, and ready to put in the work, then we are a good fit. My non-judgmental, direct, and educated approach using evidence-based interventions helps lead my clients to feel satisfaction and success with their therapy goals when working with me. My high client retention, referrals and waitlist are a testament to this.
I work well with individual adults wanting to manage stress, mood, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, adjust to life transitions or improve their relationships.
Are you ready to put in the work to improve the quality of your life and relationships? I help clients get out of their own way by helping them find more helpful thought and action paths forward. If you are an individual wanting to find a path towards a happier, calmer and more fulfilling life and relationships, and ready to put in the work, then we are a good fit. My non-judgmental, direct, and educated approach using evidence-based interventions helps lead my clients to feel satisfaction and success with their therapy goals when working with me. My high client retention, referrals and waitlist are a testament to this.
(530) 665-8693 View (530) 665-8693
Photo of Joseph Hobel, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Joseph Hobel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
My approach to therapy is to look at your unique character traits and circumstances and design treatment to meet your specific needs. I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2009 and have a wide range of expertise in anxiety disorders, PTSD, panic disorder, depression, OCD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, life transitions and couples/marital therapy. I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, PTSD (Somatic Experiencing and BASE), and Gestalt therapy.
My approach to therapy is to look at your unique character traits and circumstances and design treatment to meet your specific needs. I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2009 and have a wide range of expertise in anxiety disorders, PTSD, panic disorder, depression, OCD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, life transitions and couples/marital therapy. I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, PTSD (Somatic Experiencing and BASE), and Gestalt therapy.
(747) 210-0367 View (747) 210-0367
Photo of Scott Casadona, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Scott Casadona
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
He has treated clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar, drug/alcohol addiction, obsessive compulsiveness, attention deficit, panic attacks, agoraphobia, eating disorders, cutting, borderline personality, narcissistic personality, suicide attempts/threats, schizophrenia, gender identity, and gay/lesbian issues.
Scott Casadona is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who began his career as a Psychotherapist in 2011, after a successful 25 year career as a police officer in both NY and CA. Whether working with individuals, couples, groups, or families, he enjoys and connects well with any age group, including elementary age, teens, adults, and seniors. He has experience in private practice, as well as at a school-based day treatment facility, where each student had an IEP with a qualifying social/emotional disability.
He has treated clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar, drug/alcohol addiction, obsessive compulsiveness, attention deficit, panic attacks, agoraphobia, eating disorders, cutting, borderline personality, narcissistic personality, suicide attempts/threats, schizophrenia, gender identity, and gay/lesbian issues.
Scott Casadona is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who began his career as a Psychotherapist in 2011, after a successful 25 year career as a police officer in both NY and CA. Whether working with individuals, couples, groups, or families, he enjoys and connects well with any age group, including elementary age, teens, adults, and seniors. He has experience in private practice, as well as at a school-based day treatment facility, where each student had an IEP with a qualifying social/emotional disability.
(951) 916-1991 View (951) 916-1991
Photo of Tamara Noriega, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Tamara Noriega
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Licensed Marriage and Family therapy for over 4 years and experience in mental health field for over 20 years. Experience in treating patient's who struggle with life challenges, including depression, substance abuse anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and relational difficulties. Utilizing a client centered approach with individualized treatment plan to meet client's personalized needs.
Licensed Marriage and Family therapy for over 4 years and experience in mental health field for over 20 years. Experience in treating patient's who struggle with life challenges, including depression, substance abuse anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and relational difficulties. Utilizing a client centered approach with individualized treatment plan to meet client's personalized needs.
(657) 837-3626 View (657) 837-3626
Photo of Ronald 'max' Yusim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Ronald 'max' Yusim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I am strong in treating people with depression, OCD and anxiety issues. That being said, my true expertise is in the area of alcohol and addiction therapies. I am a recovering alcoholic and love educating folks on the principles of addiction and recovery. I've even had the fascinating experience of leading drug and alcohol group therapy for inmates at San Quentin State Prison. I believe there is no distinction between the many forms of addiction: alcohol, drugs, sex, internet porn, eating, working, video games, social media or gambling"¦all of these are triggered by the same things: fear, stress, and anxiety. And ALL are treatable.
I am strong in treating people with depression, OCD and anxiety issues. That being said, my true expertise is in the area of alcohol and addiction therapies. I am a recovering alcoholic and love educating folks on the principles of addiction and recovery. I've even had the fascinating experience of leading drug and alcohol group therapy for inmates at San Quentin State Prison. I believe there is no distinction between the many forms of addiction: alcohol, drugs, sex, internet porn, eating, working, video games, social media or gambling"¦all of these are triggered by the same things: fear, stress, and anxiety. And ALL are treatable.
(628) 225-4560 View (628) 225-4560
Photo of Yuri Rassovsky, Psychologist in California
Yuri Rassovsky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Rassovsky's specialty areas include anxiety, depression, trauma or PTSD, OCD, and midlife transitions.
Dr. Yuri Rassovsky works with adults dealing with various emotional challenges. He is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Board-Certified Clinical Neuropsychologist and has been doing psychotherapy, as well as psycho-diagnostic and neuropsychological testing, for over 20 years. He earned his undergraduate degrees in psychology and philosophy from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and subsequently attained a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Rassovsky also completed post-doctoral training in clinical neuropsychology at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital.
Rassovsky's specialty areas include anxiety, depression, trauma or PTSD, OCD, and midlife transitions.
Dr. Yuri Rassovsky works with adults dealing with various emotional challenges. He is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Board-Certified Clinical Neuropsychologist and has been doing psychotherapy, as well as psycho-diagnostic and neuropsychological testing, for over 20 years. He earned his undergraduate degrees in psychology and philosophy from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and subsequently attained a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Rassovsky also completed post-doctoral training in clinical neuropsychology at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital.
(323) 827-7603 View (323) 827-7603
Photo of Roshini Kumar, Licensed Professional Counselor in California
Roshini Kumar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Roshini works with teenagers and adults looking to improve generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, major depressive disorders and eating disorders.
Roshini Kumar is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Studio Art from Baylor University and a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling Psychology from University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. As a licensed therapist and a certified Pilates instructor, Roshini values the holistic mind/body approach by using evidence-based therapies of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy alongside mindful movement.
Roshini works with teenagers and adults looking to improve generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, major depressive disorders and eating disorders.
Roshini Kumar is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Studio Art from Baylor University and a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling Psychology from University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. As a licensed therapist and a certified Pilates instructor, Roshini values the holistic mind/body approach by using evidence-based therapies of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy alongside mindful movement.
(628) 500-8011 View (628) 500-8011
Photo of Richard Lappin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Richard Lappin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
My specialties include treating ADHD, other behavioral problems, anxiety, OCD, and depression.
I provide psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families in a safe, nurturing environment. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist and supervisor of therapists, and I use this experience to tailor my services to meet your individual and specific needs. I work with a wide variety of clients and issues, from children with ADHD and school problems, to adolescents with substance abuse issues, to adults grappling with mood disorders and marital problems.
My specialties include treating ADHD, other behavioral problems, anxiety, OCD, and depression.
I provide psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families in a safe, nurturing environment. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist and supervisor of therapists, and I use this experience to tailor my services to meet your individual and specific needs. I work with a wide variety of clients and issues, from children with ADHD and school problems, to adolescents with substance abuse issues, to adults grappling with mood disorders and marital problems.
(714) 752-0988 View (714) 752-0988
Photo of Alejandro Maya, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Alejandro Maya
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with Gen Z and Millenials experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, OCD, identity crisis, peer challenges, family difficulties, and stress brought on when two or more of these areas collide. I use EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic approaches, expressive arts and narrative therapies to assist you in exploring and healing these issues at their root causes.
I specialize in working with Gen Z and Millenials experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, OCD, identity crisis, peer challenges, family difficulties, and stress brought on when two or more of these areas collide. I use EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic approaches, expressive arts and narrative therapies to assist you in exploring and healing these issues at their root causes.
(650) 405-0438 View (650) 405-0438
Photo of Lilia Sandoval, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Lilia Sandoval
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Dr. Lilia Sandoval is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1992. Dr. Sandoval has worked in both Outpatient and Inpatient Clinical/Hospital settings using CBT, CPT, DBT, and NET. She has provided both long-term and short-term therapy for patients suffering from Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Spectrum Disorders, Depression, and Grief. Her experience has also been working with adults and children in crisis and going through unexpected stages of trauma or daily life transition.
Dr. Lilia Sandoval is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1992. Dr. Sandoval has worked in both Outpatient and Inpatient Clinical/Hospital settings using CBT, CPT, DBT, and NET. She has provided both long-term and short-term therapy for patients suffering from Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Spectrum Disorders, Depression, and Grief. Her experience has also been working with adults and children in crisis and going through unexpected stages of trauma or daily life transition.
(323) 991-7248 View (323) 991-7248
Photo of Caroline Cretti, Psychologist in California
Caroline Cretti
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, registered with the California Board of Psychology. I have been a therapist in the Bay Area for over 5 years. My goal in therapy is to provide space for clients to better understand themselves and the different dynamics that have created specific patterns of relationships, behaviors, and anxieties. I approach therapy and each client from a psychodynamic and humanistic framework. As a clinical psychologist, I have experience working with trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, family and relationship issues, obsessive compulsive disorders, and serious mental illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, registered with the California Board of Psychology. I have been a therapist in the Bay Area for over 5 years. My goal in therapy is to provide space for clients to better understand themselves and the different dynamics that have created specific patterns of relationships, behaviors, and anxieties. I approach therapy and each client from a psychodynamic and humanistic framework. As a clinical psychologist, I have experience working with trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, family and relationship issues, obsessive compulsive disorders, and serious mental illness.
(628) 265-8969 View (628) 265-8969
Photo of Behnam Keyvan, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Behnam Keyvan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and couples in the areas of anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, and anger managment.
Are you in crisis? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or sad? Is your teen or younger child having difficulties? Perhaps you have struggled with anxiety, fear, sadness, loneliness, and difficulties in relationship. My intent is to help you discover what you want to be different in your life and then find ways to make those changes. Often this means improving relationships -- learning about communication, finding better ways to deal with conflict, and becoming closer. Finding a safe and collaborative place to explore and address what is troubling you is the first step in healing.
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and couples in the areas of anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, and anger managment.
Are you in crisis? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or sad? Is your teen or younger child having difficulties? Perhaps you have struggled with anxiety, fear, sadness, loneliness, and difficulties in relationship. My intent is to help you discover what you want to be different in your life and then find ways to make those changes. Often this means improving relationships -- learning about communication, finding better ways to deal with conflict, and becoming closer. Finding a safe and collaborative place to explore and address what is troubling you is the first step in healing.
(818) 293-0071 View (818) 293-0071
Photo of Justine Adelman, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Justine Adelman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
Welcome and congratulations in taking the first step in the journey towards growth and empowerment for you and your family. My name is Justine Adelman, LMFT, and I am here to tell you that you are not alone. Whether you or your family member is struggling with anxiety, trauma, child-parent relational issues, anger management, behavior issues, parenting struggles, grief/loss, autism, ADHD, OCD or postpartum depression to name a few, we are in this together. My passion is in helping children, adolescents and families. I believe that it takes a village to raise a child, and I would love to be part of your village.
Welcome and congratulations in taking the first step in the journey towards growth and empowerment for you and your family. My name is Justine Adelman, LMFT, and I am here to tell you that you are not alone. Whether you or your family member is struggling with anxiety, trauma, child-parent relational issues, anger management, behavior issues, parenting struggles, grief/loss, autism, ADHD, OCD or postpartum depression to name a few, we are in this together. My passion is in helping children, adolescents and families. I believe that it takes a village to raise a child, and I would love to be part of your village.
(323) 701-1495 View (323) 701-1495
Photo of Brighten LeBeau, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Brighten LeBeau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I work with couples, individuals, and young adults, including those who struggle with relationship issues, mood instability, self-acceptance, LGBTQ+ identity, anxiety, and OCD, who want to create a more true and beautiful life. My therapeutic approach begins with a curiosity that looks deeply into the negative beliefs you hold about yourself that are limiting your life. Through self-compassion, I can help you establish a view of yourself in order to bring awareness to the way you interact in the world. With your newly established awareness and self-acceptance, you can live and love with an authentic sense of purpose and connection.
I work with couples, individuals, and young adults, including those who struggle with relationship issues, mood instability, self-acceptance, LGBTQ+ identity, anxiety, and OCD, who want to create a more true and beautiful life. My therapeutic approach begins with a curiosity that looks deeply into the negative beliefs you hold about yourself that are limiting your life. Through self-compassion, I can help you establish a view of yourself in order to bring awareness to the way you interact in the world. With your newly established awareness and self-acceptance, you can live and love with an authentic sense of purpose and connection.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Carrie Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Carrie Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92501
She has worked with women in domestic violence situations, child abuse, autism, developmental disabilities, intellectual disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, sleep disorders, etc.
Carrie Anne Cooper is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2001. She was a Navy brat and has lived all over the world. She went to school in Asia from age 7 to about 11 years old. Carrie graduated high school in California and has lived in Southern California ever since. She went to the University of California, Irvine (UCI), and went to Pepperdine University for her Master's Degree. Carrie has been working in the field of psychology for more than 20 years, working with a variety of populations and diagnoses.
She has worked with women in domestic violence situations, child abuse, autism, developmental disabilities, intellectual disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, sleep disorders, etc.
Carrie Anne Cooper is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2001. She was a Navy brat and has lived all over the world. She went to school in Asia from age 7 to about 11 years old. Carrie graduated high school in California and has lived in Southern California ever since. She went to the University of California, Irvine (UCI), and went to Pepperdine University for her Master's Degree. Carrie has been working in the field of psychology for more than 20 years, working with a variety of populations and diagnoses.
(909) 324-5026 View (909) 324-5026
Photo of Amy Dickerson, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Amy Dickerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new transition in your life? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have worked in a private practice setting for over ten years. I enjoy working with a broad range of issues related to relationships and mental health. Over the years I have become passionate about working with mothers struggling with loss, pregnancy and postpartum related depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. 15-20% of pregnant women and new mothers suffer from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. If you are struggling, you are not alone.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new transition in your life? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have worked in a private practice setting for over ten years. I enjoy working with a broad range of issues related to relationships and mental health. Over the years I have become passionate about working with mothers struggling with loss, pregnancy and postpartum related depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. 15-20% of pregnant women and new mothers suffer from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. If you are struggling, you are not alone.
(909) 894-0891 View (909) 894-0891
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.