Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in California

Photo of Annabelle Mebane, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Annabelle Mebane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders, including OCD and PTSD. I utilize short term, evidence based treatments - including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) - to help clients learn skills to respond more effectively to distressing thoughts and feelings. During the first two sessions, we meet for thorough assessment to identify your needs and discuss your goals for therapy. Therapy is then tailored to your particular goals, and structured around evidence based principles.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders, including OCD and PTSD. I utilize short term, evidence based treatments - including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) - to help clients learn skills to respond more effectively to distressing thoughts and feelings. During the first two sessions, we meet for thorough assessment to identify your needs and discuss your goals for therapy. Therapy is then tailored to your particular goals, and structured around evidence based principles.
(619) 586-6919 View (619) 586-6919
Photo of Cynthia Ann Hunter, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Cynthia Ann Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661  (Online Only)
I specialize in OCD and Anxiety Disorders such as, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety/Social Phobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Specific Phobias. My approach in working with clients is integrative, combining the theories of exposure and response prevention (ERP), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and acceptance modalities. I'm passionate about helping individuals achieve their therapeutic goals and strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental setting for my clients. I think it's important to provide clients with the skills needed, and the support needed, to make changes in their lives that are in alignment with their personal values and priorities.
I specialize in OCD and Anxiety Disorders such as, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety/Social Phobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Specific Phobias. My approach in working with clients is integrative, combining the theories of exposure and response prevention (ERP), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and acceptance modalities. I'm passionate about helping individuals achieve their therapeutic goals and strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental setting for my clients. I think it's important to provide clients with the skills needed, and the support needed, to make changes in their lives that are in alignment with their personal values and priorities.
(530) 232-4380 View (530) 232-4380
Photo of Jim Sterner, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Jim Sterner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
If OCD is affecting you or someone you love, you are not alone.
Are you looking for freedom from unwanted obsessions and compulsions? Are you a parent aching from the pain of watching your child suffer from OCD? Or are you looking for answers for yourself? The Gateway Institute, which specializes in treating OCD, can help.
If OCD is affecting you or someone you love, you are not alone.
Are you looking for freedom from unwanted obsessions and compulsions? Are you a parent aching from the pain of watching your child suffer from OCD? Or are you looking for answers for yourself? The Gateway Institute, which specializes in treating OCD, can help.
(714) 462-1385 View (714) 462-1385
Photo of Dr. Christina M. Charlotin, Psychologist in California
Dr. Christina M. Charlotin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108
I specialize in working with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, insomnia, chronic pain, relationship challenges, heartbreak, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination behaviors & LGBTQ/Race related challenges.
In our work together, my intention is to help you break away from the maladaptive thought patterns, emotions, actions, and external circumstances that keep you stuck in an unwanted experience. My goal is to help you create progress towards the life you do want for yourself. I’ll want to understand the changes you’d like to see in yourself. With this in mind, I’ll want to identify the behaviors you’d like to demonstrate, the lasting emotions you’d like to feel, and the outcomes you’d like to see present themselves in your life. With that information, we'll set the overall goals for therapy. Now providing Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
I specialize in working with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, insomnia, chronic pain, relationship challenges, heartbreak, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination behaviors & LGBTQ/Race related challenges.
In our work together, my intention is to help you break away from the maladaptive thought patterns, emotions, actions, and external circumstances that keep you stuck in an unwanted experience. My goal is to help you create progress towards the life you do want for yourself. I’ll want to understand the changes you’d like to see in yourself. With this in mind, I’ll want to identify the behaviors you’d like to demonstrate, the lasting emotions you’d like to feel, and the outcomes you’d like to see present themselves in your life. With that information, we'll set the overall goals for therapy. Now providing Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
(628) 201-6946 View (628) 201-6946
Photo of Roselyn Romano, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Roselyn Romano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Waitlist for new clients
If you suffer from worry and anxiety or OCD, you are in the right place.
I help those who desire quiet from the noise of constant thinking, self-doubt, and worry. Those who are sick of feeling not good enough no matter how hard they try. Those who feel powerless against compulsive urges they can’t seem to resist. And those who want to let go of the mental chatter of a mind incessantly playing out worst case scenarios.
If you suffer from worry and anxiety or OCD, you are in the right place.
I help those who desire quiet from the noise of constant thinking, self-doubt, and worry. Those who are sick of feeling not good enough no matter how hard they try. Those who feel powerless against compulsive urges they can’t seem to resist. And those who want to let go of the mental chatter of a mind incessantly playing out worst case scenarios.
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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
Photo of Jason von Stietz, Psychologist in California
Jason von Stietz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
Are you tired of anxiety and old habits preventing you from achieving your goals? Have you been dealing with life's problems by trying harder, venting to friends and family, and avoiding stressful situations, and things never seem to get better? Are you ready for change? I’ll work collaboratively with you to tailor time-tested and evidence-based approaches to meet your specific needs. I am a cognitive behavior therapist and I specialize in the treatment of people with OCD, Panic, Insomnia, and Sport/Performance related issues. We'll work together to overcome whatever is holding you back and open up your life in meaningful ways.
Are you tired of anxiety and old habits preventing you from achieving your goals? Have you been dealing with life's problems by trying harder, venting to friends and family, and avoiding stressful situations, and things never seem to get better? Are you ready for change? I’ll work collaboratively with you to tailor time-tested and evidence-based approaches to meet your specific needs. I am a cognitive behavior therapist and I specialize in the treatment of people with OCD, Panic, Insomnia, and Sport/Performance related issues. We'll work together to overcome whatever is holding you back and open up your life in meaningful ways.
(424) 228-9724 View (424) 228-9724
Photo of Marisa Swain, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Marisa Swain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vallejo, CA 94589  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with ADHD or OCD? Do you feel stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts and behaviors? If so, you are not alone. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping people like you overcome these challenges and achieve their goals. I will meet you where you are, help you identify your goals, and guide you through the process of getting un-stuck using an approach derived from evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral, internal family systems, and narrative therapies. I have been helping individuals and caregivers since 2015, and I would love to help you too.
Are you struggling with ADHD or OCD? Do you feel stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts and behaviors? If so, you are not alone. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping people like you overcome these challenges and achieve their goals. I will meet you where you are, help you identify your goals, and guide you through the process of getting un-stuck using an approach derived from evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral, internal family systems, and narrative therapies. I have been helping individuals and caregivers since 2015, and I would love to help you too.
(707) 348-5836 View (707) 348-5836
Photo of Jen Buchholz, Psychologist in California
Jen Buchholz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY34408) providing individual and couples therapy to adults. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based treatments for anxiety, OCD, trauma-related disorders, and relationship challenges. My approach is nonjudgmental, genuine, and flexible as I support clients in learning new strategies that support their wellbeing. Since we learn best by doing, I approach therapy actively and collaboratively as I encourage clients to try out new ways of relating to themselves and others.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY34408) providing individual and couples therapy to adults. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based treatments for anxiety, OCD, trauma-related disorders, and relationship challenges. My approach is nonjudgmental, genuine, and flexible as I support clients in learning new strategies that support their wellbeing. Since we learn best by doing, I approach therapy actively and collaboratively as I encourage clients to try out new ways of relating to themselves and others.
(650) 955-4430 View (650) 955-4430
Photo of Sharlisa L Byrd, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Sharlisa L Byrd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, TITC-CT, SEPi, CPC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95136  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sharlisa assists clients on various issues, including but not limited too, trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, mood regulation, grief, personal recovery and growth, life transitional stages.
It's finally your time to heal. Sharlisa has experience in both the mind and the body providing unique and effective approaches to counseling. Sharlisa is known for providing clients with nurturing tailored therapeutic services that can be integrated into their daily lives. She views herself as a manufacturer of hope and healing. She provides culturally competent, holistic, and wellness focused services that promote transformative healing through transformative change by optimizing a client centered approach that utilizes knowledge, early interventions, open communication, somatic experiencing & increased awareness. It's your time.
Sharlisa assists clients on various issues, including but not limited too, trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, mood regulation, grief, personal recovery and growth, life transitional stages.
It's finally your time to heal. Sharlisa has experience in both the mind and the body providing unique and effective approaches to counseling. Sharlisa is known for providing clients with nurturing tailored therapeutic services that can be integrated into their daily lives. She views herself as a manufacturer of hope and healing. She provides culturally competent, holistic, and wellness focused services that promote transformative healing through transformative change by optimizing a client centered approach that utilizes knowledge, early interventions, open communication, somatic experiencing & increased awareness. It's your time.
(408) 359-1814 View (408) 359-1814
Photo of Christy Tadros, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California
Christy Tadros
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I also have years of experience and a passion for working with children and adolescents with anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, behavioral issues and supporting parents through these challenges.
During this challenging time it is normal to be experiencing some anxiety, nervousness or restlessness. Being home and having major changes in routines can be disorienting for many and trigger impairing mental health conditions. I am offering Telehealth sessions to support people in maintaining mental, emotional and physical health. I provide evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are holistic and multiculturally sensitive.
I also have years of experience and a passion for working with children and adolescents with anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, behavioral issues and supporting parents through these challenges.
During this challenging time it is normal to be experiencing some anxiety, nervousness or restlessness. Being home and having major changes in routines can be disorienting for many and trigger impairing mental health conditions. I am offering Telehealth sessions to support people in maintaining mental, emotional and physical health. I provide evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are holistic and multiculturally sensitive.
(628) 266-4174 View (628) 266-4174
Photo of Andrew Gottlieb, PhD Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychologist in California
Andrew Gottlieb, PhD Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
Trained at Yale, Stanford, and the University of Washington, I am a PhD Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to teach you skills for dealing with your problems quickly and without drugs. Through CBT, I have helped hundreds of people deal with difficult issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, work issues, marriage and couples problems as well as other issues facing adults, teens, and college students. I utilize a collaborative, supportive approach to teach CBT tools for thinking differently about situations to improve happiness and reduce emotional pain.
Trained at Yale, Stanford, and the University of Washington, I am a PhD Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to teach you skills for dealing with your problems quickly and without drugs. Through CBT, I have helped hundreds of people deal with difficult issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, work issues, marriage and couples problems as well as other issues facing adults, teens, and college students. I utilize a collaborative, supportive approach to teach CBT tools for thinking differently about situations to improve happiness and reduce emotional pain.
(650) 492-6754 View (650) 492-6754
Photo of Jennifer Golden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Jennifer Golden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IFECMHS
Verified Verified
Everyone experiences challenges and pain in life, yet when they happen to you it's an experience that is uniquely yours. It takes courage to face uncomfortable feelings and to cultivate an open heart. To recognize you need support and seek treatment is good coping. I work with a wide variety of clients experiencing traumas; transitions; anxiety and OCD; grief and loss; sad mood, guilt, hopelessness; excessive worry; overwhelm; irritability/anger; relationship strain/conflict; identity issues; and work/school stress. I'm trained in pregnancy/postpartum adjustments through Postpartum Support International, and OCD through IOCDF/BTTI.
Everyone experiences challenges and pain in life, yet when they happen to you it's an experience that is uniquely yours. It takes courage to face uncomfortable feelings and to cultivate an open heart. To recognize you need support and seek treatment is good coping. I work with a wide variety of clients experiencing traumas; transitions; anxiety and OCD; grief and loss; sad mood, guilt, hopelessness; excessive worry; overwhelm; irritability/anger; relationship strain/conflict; identity issues; and work/school stress. I'm trained in pregnancy/postpartum adjustments through Postpartum Support International, and OCD through IOCDF/BTTI.
(831) 287-8306 View (831) 287-8306
Photo of Ramage Marriage & Family Therapy, INC., Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Ramage Marriage & Family Therapy, INC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Clovis, CA 93612  (Online Only)
Specializes in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety Disorders including OCD, LGBTQ issues, and individuals and families in crisis.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who specializes in individual, couple and family psychotherapy. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from UC Santa Cruz and received my Master of Science in Counseling at California State University, Fresno. I have a special interest in treating individuals and families in crisis, as well as individuals with a history of trauma, Post Traumatic Stress and anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I also specialize in treating ADHD and adult children of narcissists.
Specializes in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety Disorders including OCD, LGBTQ issues, and individuals and families in crisis.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who specializes in individual, couple and family psychotherapy. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from UC Santa Cruz and received my Master of Science in Counseling at California State University, Fresno. I have a special interest in treating individuals and families in crisis, as well as individuals with a history of trauma, Post Traumatic Stress and anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I also specialize in treating ADHD and adult children of narcissists.
(559) 475-8202 View (559) 475-8202
Photo of Robert Miller, Psychologist in California
Robert Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
If you're suffering from depression, traumatic memories, anxiety, or OCD, Image Transformation Therapy (ImTT) can restore your effectiveness in the world and the balance in your life. I developed ImTT while working at Camp Pendleton Marine Base because I needed a treatment that could release the most intense pain, terror, and memories without the person having to experience the feelings or relive the memories. The result is that ImTT treatment enables a person to live without self-consciousness and fear -- spending more of their life in the "creative zone."
If you're suffering from depression, traumatic memories, anxiety, or OCD, Image Transformation Therapy (ImTT) can restore your effectiveness in the world and the balance in your life. I developed ImTT while working at Camp Pendleton Marine Base because I needed a treatment that could release the most intense pain, terror, and memories without the person having to experience the feelings or relive the memories. The result is that ImTT treatment enables a person to live without self-consciousness and fear -- spending more of their life in the "creative zone."
(626) 465-3163 View (626) 465-3163
Photo of Katie Merrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Katie Merrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I specialize in CBT/ERP for OCD and for other OCD/anxiety-spectrum disorders such as Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Health Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Specific Phobias.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by obsessive, unwanted thoughts and anxiety? Maybe you're experiencing concerns about harm, a past event, contamination, or being with the wrong partner. Do you feel trapped in a cycle of repetitive mental rehearsing, checking, cleaning, reassurance-seeking, or avoidance behaviors in an attempt to get relief? OCD is a frequently misunderstood disorder that can present itself with a myriad of themes, leaving the sufferer feeling trapped and hopeless. Luckily, effective treatment is available. I offer a safe, supportive space for clients to learn the tools to break free from the exhaustive grip of OCD.
I specialize in CBT/ERP for OCD and for other OCD/anxiety-spectrum disorders such as Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Health Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Specific Phobias.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by obsessive, unwanted thoughts and anxiety? Maybe you're experiencing concerns about harm, a past event, contamination, or being with the wrong partner. Do you feel trapped in a cycle of repetitive mental rehearsing, checking, cleaning, reassurance-seeking, or avoidance behaviors in an attempt to get relief? OCD is a frequently misunderstood disorder that can present itself with a myriad of themes, leaving the sufferer feeling trapped and hopeless. Luckily, effective treatment is available. I offer a safe, supportive space for clients to learn the tools to break free from the exhaustive grip of OCD.
(323) 673-3199 View (323) 673-3199
Photo of Heather L. Damon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Heather L. Damon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95831  (Online Only)
In addition to providing support for the ups and downs of life I do also specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, OCD, and anxiety-related disorders.
Perhaps you are having difficulties in your primary relationships, perhaps there are stressors at work, perhaps you face a great choice and several obstacles are hindering your clarity and peace. I have been honored to witness individuals and couples overcome many barriers that initially seemed insurmountable. Based on the lived experience of those I work with I believe that a full, happy, and peaceful life is within reach for everyone who seeks it.
In addition to providing support for the ups and downs of life I do also specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, OCD, and anxiety-related disorders.
Perhaps you are having difficulties in your primary relationships, perhaps there are stressors at work, perhaps you face a great choice and several obstacles are hindering your clarity and peace. I have been honored to witness individuals and couples overcome many barriers that initially seemed insurmountable. Based on the lived experience of those I work with I believe that a full, happy, and peaceful life is within reach for everyone who seeks it.
(916) 619-5841 View (916) 619-5841
Photo of Marcia K Garceau, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Marcia K Garceau
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 15 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and solutions to overcome general anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias, depression, relationship problems, weight loss, other self-sabotaging behavior, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 15 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and solutions to overcome general anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias, depression, relationship problems, weight loss, other self-sabotaging behavior, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
(858) 281-2734 View (858) 281-2734
Photo of Cameron Murphey, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Cameron Murphey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607
“The best things in life are on the other side of fear.” You or your teen struggle with anxiety, OCD, or trauma. You spend hours worrying and feeling anxious. You feel tense and you're in a ton of pain. You’ve tried all kinds of ways to get rid of the problem - relaxation, meditation, etc. - and nothing has worked. You’re confused, frustrated, and nearly hopeless. You don’t understand why this is happening, how to make it go away, or even what to do next.
“The best things in life are on the other side of fear.” You or your teen struggle with anxiety, OCD, or trauma. You spend hours worrying and feeling anxious. You feel tense and you're in a ton of pain. You’ve tried all kinds of ways to get rid of the problem - relaxation, meditation, etc. - and nothing has worked. You’re confused, frustrated, and nearly hopeless. You don’t understand why this is happening, how to make it go away, or even what to do next.
(510) 216-1751 View (510) 216-1751
Photo of Shefali Thaman, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Shefali Thaman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
It can be overwhelming to struggle with interfering anxiety or OCD or see your teen experience some of these anxiety symptoms. Sometimes people only recently start to experience these feelings and for many others these feelings have been around for a while. These feelings can be distressing! Having worked extensively with adolescents, parents and young adults progressing through different developmental stages, I meet my young clients where they are. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Lumate Health. My orientation is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
It can be overwhelming to struggle with interfering anxiety or OCD or see your teen experience some of these anxiety symptoms. Sometimes people only recently start to experience these feelings and for many others these feelings have been around for a while. These feelings can be distressing! Having worked extensively with adolescents, parents and young adults progressing through different developmental stages, I meet my young clients where they are. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Lumate Health. My orientation is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
(510) 588-1788 View (510) 588-1788
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.