Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in California

Photo of Anxiety Experts, Psychologist in California
Anxiety Experts
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Anxiety Experts has offices in Santa Monica, Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietician as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
Anxiety Experts has offices in Santa Monica, Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietician as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
(805) 335-6950 View (805) 335-6950
Photo of Anna Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Anna Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is in treating Anxiety and OCD, conditions rooted in the fear of the unknown and the desire to control the environment.
Are you a perfectionist? Does life feel more reassuring when it's predictable and orderly? In a world filled with uncertainty, our brains naturally resist the unknown. If you have been struggling emotionally, feeling down, constantly on edge, increasingly fearful or irritable, reach out for help. Managing stress is easier with the right tools and support. Born and raised in Poland, I've called San Diego home since 2002. Along with BA and MSW degrees from SDSU, I bring over a decade of mental health expertise to the table.
My specialty is in treating Anxiety and OCD, conditions rooted in the fear of the unknown and the desire to control the environment.
Are you a perfectionist? Does life feel more reassuring when it's predictable and orderly? In a world filled with uncertainty, our brains naturally resist the unknown. If you have been struggling emotionally, feeling down, constantly on edge, increasingly fearful or irritable, reach out for help. Managing stress is easier with the right tools and support. Born and raised in Poland, I've called San Diego home since 2002. Along with BA and MSW degrees from SDSU, I bring over a decade of mental health expertise to the table.
(619) 568-5720 View (619) 568-5720
Photo of The April Center for Anxiety Attack Management, Psychologist in California
The April Center for Anxiety Attack Management
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
We are committed to helping you remove the destructive barriers of anxiety, so that you may lead a calmer, healthier, happier life. Our services treat anxiety-related symptoms, such as: Panic Attacks, Fear of "going crazy" "dying" or "losing control", Fear of being trapped in places you can't quickly escape, Fear of embarrassment, Extreme Shyness/Social Anxiety, Specific phobias, such as driving anxiety, fear of vomiting (emetophobia), agoraphobia, fear of flying OCD, Unwanted and repetitive thoughts, Excessive Worry/Generalized Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress, Relationship anxiety, Dating anxiety, Life change anxiety, and Life Stress (family, work, etc.)
We are committed to helping you remove the destructive barriers of anxiety, so that you may lead a calmer, healthier, happier life. Our services treat anxiety-related symptoms, such as: Panic Attacks, Fear of "going crazy" "dying" or "losing control", Fear of being trapped in places you can't quickly escape, Fear of embarrassment, Extreme Shyness/Social Anxiety, Specific phobias, such as driving anxiety, fear of vomiting (emetophobia), agoraphobia, fear of flying OCD, Unwanted and repetitive thoughts, Excessive Worry/Generalized Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress, Relationship anxiety, Dating anxiety, Life change anxiety, and Life Stress (family, work, etc.)
(424) 570-1254 View (424) 570-1254
Photo of Adelaide Rowe Barroso, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Adelaide Rowe Barroso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Licensed in CA and WA states - Successfully managing through high school, college, and early adulthood can be challenging. Many of my clients find themselves sacrificing mental health for academic and career success or have difficulties with motivation, confidence, and relationships. While stress is a normal and expected part of life, I help my clients manage anxiety and OCD without feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, or alone. I also support the building of communication skills and boundary-setting to better navigate and nurture important relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners.
Licensed in CA and WA states - Successfully managing through high school, college, and early adulthood can be challenging. Many of my clients find themselves sacrificing mental health for academic and career success or have difficulties with motivation, confidence, and relationships. While stress is a normal and expected part of life, I help my clients manage anxiety and OCD without feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, or alone. I also support the building of communication skills and boundary-setting to better navigate and nurture important relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners.
(424) 414-2017 View (424) 414-2017
Photo of Elissa Crandall, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Elissa Crandall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I specialize in: acute anxiety and OCD symptoms, panic disorders, families struggling to connect and/or experiencing conflict, recovery from PTSD and complex trauma, and individuals who have experienced relationship violence such as emotional, physical or sexual abuse.
Every person carries a unique story, filled with experiences that shape who they are and how they view the world. As someone who is passionate about helping others, I firmly believe that everyone deserves to feel peace and make meaning from their circumstances, no matter how difficult they may be. From my work in wilderness therapy to private practice, I have seen the transformative power of post-traumatic growth firsthand. Through my own therapeutic journey with EMDR, I have learned that healing old wounds is not only possible, but necessary for personal growth and fulfillment. I am excited to help you.
I specialize in: acute anxiety and OCD symptoms, panic disorders, families struggling to connect and/or experiencing conflict, recovery from PTSD and complex trauma, and individuals who have experienced relationship violence such as emotional, physical or sexual abuse.
Every person carries a unique story, filled with experiences that shape who they are and how they view the world. As someone who is passionate about helping others, I firmly believe that everyone deserves to feel peace and make meaning from their circumstances, no matter how difficult they may be. From my work in wilderness therapy to private practice, I have seen the transformative power of post-traumatic growth firsthand. Through my own therapeutic journey with EMDR, I have learned that healing old wounds is not only possible, but necessary for personal growth and fulfillment. I am excited to help you.
(341) 999-3734 View (341) 999-3734
Photo of Brooke Van Oosbree, Psychologist in California
Brooke Van Oosbree
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Though I consider myself a generalist and am happy to help with a variety or concerns, my areas of specialty and interest include anxiety, OCD, panic, health-related concerns, and peripartum issues.
We all have strategies for dealing with challenges day-to-day. But over time, many strategies can fall short or even backfire. We may find ourselves withdrawing and avoiding certain aspects of our lives, or overextending and pushing ourselves to the point of exhaustion. This can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, and irritable and can also take a toll on our relationships and physical health. One of my goals as a therapist is to help you identify changes you can make, both big and small, and tap into your motivation to follow-through on those changes.
Though I consider myself a generalist and am happy to help with a variety or concerns, my areas of specialty and interest include anxiety, OCD, panic, health-related concerns, and peripartum issues.
We all have strategies for dealing with challenges day-to-day. But over time, many strategies can fall short or even backfire. We may find ourselves withdrawing and avoiding certain aspects of our lives, or overextending and pushing ourselves to the point of exhaustion. This can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, and irritable and can also take a toll on our relationships and physical health. One of my goals as a therapist is to help you identify changes you can make, both big and small, and tap into your motivation to follow-through on those changes.
(415) 237-6388 View (415) 237-6388
Photo of Jim Carter, Psychologist in California
Jim Carter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
Are you seeking specialized treatment approaches supported by clinical research studies? Do you want an experienced and compassionate therapist to guide you in this process? I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapies (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and substance use. My clients are usually highly motivated to work collaboratively and achieve specific results. I serve clients in person at my North County San Diego office, and via teletherapy throughout California.
Are you seeking specialized treatment approaches supported by clinical research studies? Do you want an experienced and compassionate therapist to guide you in this process? I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapies (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and substance use. My clients are usually highly motivated to work collaboratively and achieve specific results. I serve clients in person at my North County San Diego office, and via teletherapy throughout California.
(858) 752-3520 View (858) 752-3520
Photo of Dr. Amy Wiseman, Psychologist in California
Dr. Amy Wiseman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016  (Online Only)
We take a varied approach with our patients, assessing if symptoms need immediate attention like with OCD/trauma/etc, but make time for the deep interpersonal processing and integration that leads to true healing.
My ideal client is the one who comes to my office with the genuine desire to grow and change. You have heard of depression and anxiety but you are unsure if you have a mental disorder. It is clear to you that something is not working but you don’t really know what it is, or maybe you know exactly what is going on but cannot seem to get a handle on how to change it. If you want to live as your highest and most authentic self, or if you just want to see a shift in unwelcome and uncomfortable behaviors, thoughts or feelings, my staff and I can help you begin that journey so long as you are ready to put in the work. 30 min FREE consult!
We take a varied approach with our patients, assessing if symptoms need immediate attention like with OCD/trauma/etc, but make time for the deep interpersonal processing and integration that leads to true healing.
My ideal client is the one who comes to my office with the genuine desire to grow and change. You have heard of depression and anxiety but you are unsure if you have a mental disorder. It is clear to you that something is not working but you don’t really know what it is, or maybe you know exactly what is going on but cannot seem to get a handle on how to change it. If you want to live as your highest and most authentic self, or if you just want to see a shift in unwelcome and uncomfortable behaviors, thoughts or feelings, my staff and I can help you begin that journey so long as you are ready to put in the work. 30 min FREE consult!
(323) 648-3093 View (323) 648-3093
Photo of Erin Elfant, Psychologist in California
Erin Elfant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety/phobia, depression/ bipolar, chronic pain/ medical condition, sleep disturbance, or dual diagnosis/ substance abuse, you will find that my treatment framework allows you make considerable progress in symptom reduction each week. To bolster our in-person psychotherapy sessions, I provide email exchange throughout the week (at no additional cost) to help you make further progress toward your treatment goals. You will find me to be very accessible, knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective at addressing your specific therapy needs, and you will make important life changes more quickly than imagined.
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety/phobia, depression/ bipolar, chronic pain/ medical condition, sleep disturbance, or dual diagnosis/ substance abuse, you will find that my treatment framework allows you make considerable progress in symptom reduction each week. To bolster our in-person psychotherapy sessions, I provide email exchange throughout the week (at no additional cost) to help you make further progress toward your treatment goals. You will find me to be very accessible, knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective at addressing your specific therapy needs, and you will make important life changes more quickly than imagined.
(805) 467-7274 View (805) 467-7274
Photo of Rosalie Bruning, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Rosalie Bruning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062  (Online Only)
I am trained in evidence-based methods, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, CBT for Insomnia, and as a teacher of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
I am currently accepting new clients for video sessions only. If you're feeling stuck or lost, or you're needing some guidance or a new perspective, I'm here to help. When you feel overwhelmed or swept by the currents, this can be an opportunity to get in touch with your values, clear away old debris, find direction, and regenerate your life. Using a strengths-based approach, we will work together to discover the resources within and around you to help you move forward.
I am trained in evidence-based methods, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, CBT for Insomnia, and as a teacher of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
I am currently accepting new clients for video sessions only. If you're feeling stuck or lost, or you're needing some guidance or a new perspective, I'm here to help. When you feel overwhelmed or swept by the currents, this can be an opportunity to get in touch with your values, clear away old debris, find direction, and regenerate your life. Using a strengths-based approach, we will work together to discover the resources within and around you to help you move forward.
(831) 856-5081 View (831) 856-5081
Photo of Natalie Guerra-Crowe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Natalie Guerra-Crowe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montecito, CA 93108  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a helpful and beautiful transforming tool. My primary goal is to create a space for you to feel safe to share whatever you need in our sessions. It is your time, and I am here to help guide you and work with you. You are the expert in your story, and together, we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with teens and young adults but have clients of all ages. I also specialize in OCD, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, and anxiety. Seeing all clients residing in CA via telehealth.
Therapy can be a helpful and beautiful transforming tool. My primary goal is to create a space for you to feel safe to share whatever you need in our sessions. It is your time, and I am here to help guide you and work with you. You are the expert in your story, and together, we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with teens and young adults but have clients of all ages. I also specialize in OCD, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, and anxiety. Seeing all clients residing in CA via telehealth.
(805) 600-3902 View (805) 600-3902
Photo of Caitlyn Oscarson, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Caitlyn Oscarson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
Cognitive Behavior Therapy can break the cycles of anxiety and doubt that get in the way of living your life to its fullest. I work with adults and teens experiencing anxiety and OCD.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy can break the cycles of anxiety and doubt that get in the way of living your life to its fullest. I work with adults and teens experiencing anxiety and OCD.
(408) 763-4285 View (408) 763-4285
Photo of Dianne Tiberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Dianne Tiberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chino Hills, CA 91709
My passion is helping individuals, children, and families to find relief and look forward to their futures. Whether it is anxiety, OCD, PANDAS, or other related struggles, I look forward to partnering with you to find a fresh perspective. Maybe your child is struggling or you need extra support as their caretaker; I am here to help. Wondering if video telehealth sessions are for you? I have found that telehealth sessions are both convenient for clients to easily attend in the midst of their busy lives, as well as allows us to work on anxiety using the home environment or including important family support.
My passion is helping individuals, children, and families to find relief and look forward to their futures. Whether it is anxiety, OCD, PANDAS, or other related struggles, I look forward to partnering with you to find a fresh perspective. Maybe your child is struggling or you need extra support as their caretaker; I am here to help. Wondering if video telehealth sessions are for you? I have found that telehealth sessions are both convenient for clients to easily attend in the midst of their busy lives, as well as allows us to work on anxiety using the home environment or including important family support.
(562) 454-1251 View (562) 454-1251
Photo of Eliane Spagnoletto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Eliane Spagnoletto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Other search terms: HOCD, SO-OCD, sexual orientation OCD, ROCD, relationship OCD, POCD, harm OCD, intrusive thoughts, violent thoughts, retroactive jealousy, real event OCD; somatic OCD; GAD, anxiety, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety, hypochondriasis.
I specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
Other search terms: HOCD, SO-OCD, sexual orientation OCD, ROCD, relationship OCD, POCD, harm OCD, intrusive thoughts, violent thoughts, retroactive jealousy, real event OCD; somatic OCD; GAD, anxiety, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety, hypochondriasis.
I specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(424) 414-2498 View (424) 414-2498
Photo of Dr. Waybright & Associates, Psychologist in California
Dr. Waybright & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders. Do you have repetitive bothersome thoughts? Do physical symptoms of anxiety have you concerned? Are you limiting yourself in other ways? Doing nothing? Doing the same thing over and over? Panic attacks? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? Social Anxiety? Depressed/isolating? Are you simply experiencing a difficult life transition, or is this more than that? Feel like you are stuck in a rut? Feel like the treatments you have tried so far haven't helped much? Relax...you've just now located someone who can help. Email me with any questions or to schedule a first session.
I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders. Do you have repetitive bothersome thoughts? Do physical symptoms of anxiety have you concerned? Are you limiting yourself in other ways? Doing nothing? Doing the same thing over and over? Panic attacks? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? Social Anxiety? Depressed/isolating? Are you simply experiencing a difficult life transition, or is this more than that? Feel like you are stuck in a rut? Feel like the treatments you have tried so far haven't helped much? Relax...you've just now located someone who can help. Email me with any questions or to schedule a first session.
(323) 767-8931 View (323) 767-8931
Photo of Dr. M at Insight Thoughts Psychotherapy Services, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California
Dr. M at Insight Thoughts Psychotherapy Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92801  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelming emotions, excessive worries or major life transitions? If you're looking for a mental health service that caters to your needs, you've come to the right place! I offer a comprehensive range of services to help you achieve optimal well-being. As a therapist I specialize in treating a variety of disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma, among others. I use evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and more to help you overcome your challenges.
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelming emotions, excessive worries or major life transitions? If you're looking for a mental health service that caters to your needs, you've come to the right place! I offer a comprehensive range of services to help you achieve optimal well-being. As a therapist I specialize in treating a variety of disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma, among others. I use evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and more to help you overcome your challenges.
(657) 837-2200 View (657) 837-2200
Photo of Lisa Phillips, Psychologist in California
Lisa Phillips
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Time to make a change? I am here to help. I practice Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on teaching coping skills and solving problems, and has been demonstrated by research to be highly effective in producing results. My specialties are anxiety, OCD, and depression, but I have experience successfully treating most problems. In addition to teaching how to resolve and manage problems, I focus on improving overall quality of life by increasing happiness and meaningfulness. I work with all ages - children, adolescents, adults, and families. I love my work and I am very dedicated to seeing my clients improve!
Time to make a change? I am here to help. I practice Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on teaching coping skills and solving problems, and has been demonstrated by research to be highly effective in producing results. My specialties are anxiety, OCD, and depression, but I have experience successfully treating most problems. In addition to teaching how to resolve and manage problems, I focus on improving overall quality of life by increasing happiness and meaningfulness. I work with all ages - children, adolescents, adults, and families. I love my work and I am very dedicated to seeing my clients improve!
(949) 354-3561 View (949) 354-3561
Photo of Amy Sewart, Psychologist in California
Amy Sewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I work with clients seeking help with issues including social anxiety, panic attacks, uncontrollable worry, phobias, obsessions and compulsions (OCD), posttraumatic stress (PTSD), emotion dysregulation, depression, and co-occurring substance use issues .
Hi — I’m Dr. Amy. I’m a Licensed Psychologist trained and certified in evidence-based therapies. I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at UCLA, where I specialized in the treatment of emotion-related disorders including anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use. My mission as a psychologist is to provide my clients with psychotherapy that is informed by science and tailored to their individual needs, goals, and preferences. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which I help clients develop the skill set necessary to independently cope with the challenges they’re facing.
I work with clients seeking help with issues including social anxiety, panic attacks, uncontrollable worry, phobias, obsessions and compulsions (OCD), posttraumatic stress (PTSD), emotion dysregulation, depression, and co-occurring substance use issues .
Hi — I’m Dr. Amy. I’m a Licensed Psychologist trained and certified in evidence-based therapies. I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at UCLA, where I specialized in the treatment of emotion-related disorders including anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use. My mission as a psychologist is to provide my clients with psychotherapy that is informed by science and tailored to their individual needs, goals, and preferences. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which I help clients develop the skill set necessary to independently cope with the challenges they’re facing.
(424) 339-2085 View (424) 339-2085
Photo of Lindsey Araiza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Lindsey Araiza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Camarillo, CA 93012
My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, OCD, substance abuse, and trauma.
I passionately believe in the human capacity for growth through empathy, insight, and connection. I use a gentle but direct approach to help my clients to navigate the road to change. I will help you to examine how your life experiences, interpersonal relationships and environment connect to your thoughts, feelings and actions. I have extensive experience in mental health and substance abuse recovery, and have worked with adults and adolescents in inpatient and outpatient treatment settings. In my practice I see individuals and couples, and have a strong background in family therapy.
My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, OCD, substance abuse, and trauma.
I passionately believe in the human capacity for growth through empathy, insight, and connection. I use a gentle but direct approach to help my clients to navigate the road to change. I will help you to examine how your life experiences, interpersonal relationships and environment connect to your thoughts, feelings and actions. I have extensive experience in mental health and substance abuse recovery, and have worked with adults and adolescents in inpatient and outpatient treatment settings. In my practice I see individuals and couples, and have a strong background in family therapy.
(424) 329-6907 View (424) 329-6907
Photo of Annie Alpers, Psychologist in California
Annie Alpers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I treat obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD, BDD, BFRBs, illness anxiety disorder), misophonia, and anxiety. I have several of these conditions myself, and have benefited greatly from the same treatments I now provide for others. Working with these conditions is very rewarding - I love seeing my clients experience symptom relief and return their attention to the activities that matter most to them.
I treat obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD, BDD, BFRBs, illness anxiety disorder), misophonia, and anxiety. I have several of these conditions myself, and have benefited greatly from the same treatments I now provide for others. Working with these conditions is very rewarding - I love seeing my clients experience symptom relief and return their attention to the activities that matter most to them.
(415) 301-6012 View (415) 301-6012
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.