Photo of Sara Petrasso, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Sara Petrasso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Prior to that, I worked extensively in treating OCD, phobias, and eating disorders at a practice in NYC.
I work with individuals who feel their lives are hindered by unwanted or distressing feelings, or self-defeating patterns of behavior, and who experience depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, compulsive or impulsive behaviors, or relationship difficulties. By establishing more effective coping skills and responses, positive changes can develop and lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively, exploring the foundation of the problem, identifying problematic patterns, and then developing treatment goals tailored to the unique needs of each individual client.
Prior to that, I worked extensively in treating OCD, phobias, and eating disorders at a practice in NYC.
I work with individuals who feel their lives are hindered by unwanted or distressing feelings, or self-defeating patterns of behavior, and who experience depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, compulsive or impulsive behaviors, or relationship difficulties. By establishing more effective coping skills and responses, positive changes can develop and lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively, exploring the foundation of the problem, identifying problematic patterns, and then developing treatment goals tailored to the unique needs of each individual client.
(202) 618-5571 View (202) 618-5571
Photo of Changes Psychological Services, PLLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC specializes in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and mood disorders, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. CBT is an evidence-based, solution-focused and goal-oriented treatment, which focuses primarily on the here-and-now.
Changes Psychological Services, PLLC specializes in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and mood disorders, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. CBT is an evidence-based, solution-focused and goal-oriented treatment, which focuses primarily on the here-and-now.
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Photo of Linda Berman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Linda Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I'll work to help you better understand your inner experience, to act more effectively, and to treat yourself kindly. I will support you as you build the skills needed to meet current challenges, or as you go about reducing impulsive or avoidant trends. Because turning against oneself after not performing well compounds one's emotional burden, it is important to learn to replace self-condemnation with a self-affirming stance. I can assist you in acquiring the know-how and power to move steadily toward these goals. The reward for making progress internally or behaviorally is greater self-control and an increase in self-esteem.
I'll work to help you better understand your inner experience, to act more effectively, and to treat yourself kindly. I will support you as you build the skills needed to meet current challenges, or as you go about reducing impulsive or avoidant trends. Because turning against oneself after not performing well compounds one's emotional burden, it is important to learn to replace self-condemnation with a self-affirming stance. I can assist you in acquiring the know-how and power to move steadily toward these goals. The reward for making progress internally or behaviorally is greater self-control and an increase in self-esteem.
(202) 914-5610 View (202) 914-5610
Photo of Tracy l Thomas, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Tracy l Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
My therapeutic style is warm, authentic, and interactive. I create a comfortable and non-judgmental working environment for my clients, using empathy, honesty, and a sense of humor. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively - establishing treatment goals that are tailored specifically to the individual client's needs. My clients gain understanding and insight that help alleviate symptoms and create positive life changes. Because the way we think affects the way we feel, I help my clients learn how to identify and challenge negative thinking. These practical skills enable them to maintain the level of progress they make during therapy.
My therapeutic style is warm, authentic, and interactive. I create a comfortable and non-judgmental working environment for my clients, using empathy, honesty, and a sense of humor. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively - establishing treatment goals that are tailored specifically to the individual client's needs. My clients gain understanding and insight that help alleviate symptoms and create positive life changes. Because the way we think affects the way we feel, I help my clients learn how to identify and challenge negative thinking. These practical skills enable them to maintain the level of progress they make during therapy.
(202) 552-0511 View (202) 552-0511
Photo of Dr. Ziva Benezra, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Ziva Benezra
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
You and your partner are not in sync, and are having trouble hearing and understanding each other. You feel sad, scared and angry because you remember how happy you were and this relationship is so important to you. No matter how clear the issues are for you as you try to address them, your partner somehow sees the issues differently. Disagreements aren't getting fully resolved. Or you are dealing with: difficult family, work or social relationships, persistent worries, identity questions, life transitions and adjustments, thinking that you aren't "good enough” for yourself or others, perfectionism, grieving, or healing from trauma.
You and your partner are not in sync, and are having trouble hearing and understanding each other. You feel sad, scared and angry because you remember how happy you were and this relationship is so important to you. No matter how clear the issues are for you as you try to address them, your partner somehow sees the issues differently. Disagreements aren't getting fully resolved. Or you are dealing with: difficult family, work or social relationships, persistent worries, identity questions, life transitions and adjustments, thinking that you aren't "good enough” for yourself or others, perfectionism, grieving, or healing from trauma.
(202) 933-6238 View (202) 933-6238
Photo of Greenhouse Psychotherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Greenhouse Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Hi! I'm Sara, founder of Greenhouse Psychotherapy- a boutique mental health practice serving adults & adolescents of all genders. Greenhouse is a group practice striving to provide the highest quality mental health services. We believe mental health is a basic human right, and we are committed to providing the compassion, respect, and acceptance our clients deserve. Clients often seek therapy with us when they're ready to get "unstuck", and are craving momentum toward their goals. Our tailored mental health services make us a great choice whether you're looking for help with one specific issue or in need of comprehensive care.
Hi! I'm Sara, founder of Greenhouse Psychotherapy- a boutique mental health practice serving adults & adolescents of all genders. Greenhouse is a group practice striving to provide the highest quality mental health services. We believe mental health is a basic human right, and we are committed to providing the compassion, respect, and acceptance our clients deserve. Clients often seek therapy with us when they're ready to get "unstuck", and are craving momentum toward their goals. Our tailored mental health services make us a great choice whether you're looking for help with one specific issue or in need of comprehensive care.
(202) 851-2990 View (202) 851-2990
Photo of Sarah Goldman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Sarah Goldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Many of us find ourselves struggling with persistent feelings, patterns, and reactions that hold us back. Perhaps you’ve tried psychotherapy before, and you have a good understanding of your problems but they haven’t changed. Or perhaps you 'know' that you are capable, worthy, and appreciated by others, but at your core, you don't feel this way. I believe that much of the time, symptoms develop from negative life experiences that have not been fully resolved.
Many of us find ourselves struggling with persistent feelings, patterns, and reactions that hold us back. Perhaps you’ve tried psychotherapy before, and you have a good understanding of your problems but they haven’t changed. Or perhaps you 'know' that you are capable, worthy, and appreciated by others, but at your core, you don't feel this way. I believe that much of the time, symptoms develop from negative life experiences that have not been fully resolved.
(571) 222-6624 View (571) 222-6624
Photo of Sandra Piedrahita, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Sandra Piedrahita
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I work with adults and adolescents who are experiencing challenging life circumstances and adjustments, struggle with important relationships, self-esteem, live with mood disorders/anxiety, are seeking relief from past trauma, and individuals wanting to live a more satisfying and engaged life. My work is to participate in creating a therapeutic space and to use my skills to promote awareness and support positive change. This may require looking at both past and present-day issues. Developing a good working relationship (being a good "fit") with my clients is essential.
I work with adults and adolescents who are experiencing challenging life circumstances and adjustments, struggle with important relationships, self-esteem, live with mood disorders/anxiety, are seeking relief from past trauma, and individuals wanting to live a more satisfying and engaged life. My work is to participate in creating a therapeutic space and to use my skills to promote awareness and support positive change. This may require looking at both past and present-day issues. Developing a good working relationship (being a good "fit") with my clients is essential.
(202) 932-0612 View (202) 932-0612
Photo of Dr. Nadia Alsamadi, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Nadia Alsamadi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
You may feel constantly distracted from the present moment or like you’re on autopilot. Our minds often hand us thoughts that are distressing and it’s very easy to become wrapped up and stuck in them! I enjoy working with folks to disempower negative thoughts and get back to the things and people that are important to them. Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
You may feel constantly distracted from the present moment or like you’re on autopilot. Our minds often hand us thoughts that are distressing and it’s very easy to become wrapped up and stuck in them! I enjoy working with folks to disempower negative thoughts and get back to the things and people that are important to them. Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
(703) 936-7191 View (703) 936-7191
Photo of Erin Haley, Counselor in Washington, DC
Erin Haley
Counselor, MEd, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Not accepting new clients
You might feel confused, anxious, drained, or blocked. You want to show up as your most authentic and unique self in daily life, relationships, and the world, but it seems like you just can't "get there" alone. I know aspects of the academic and corporate worlds can impact mental health making past and present challenges more difficult to overcome. I provide a caring, inclusive, and non judgmental environment. I hold space for you to show up as you are and offer the support you need to thrive.
You might feel confused, anxious, drained, or blocked. You want to show up as your most authentic and unique self in daily life, relationships, and the world, but it seems like you just can't "get there" alone. I know aspects of the academic and corporate worlds can impact mental health making past and present challenges more difficult to overcome. I provide a caring, inclusive, and non judgmental environment. I hold space for you to show up as you are and offer the support you need to thrive.
(202) 952-1581 View (202) 952-1581
Photo of Sarah Scalese, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Sarah Scalese
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Not accepting new clients
In my therapy work, it's important that I first learn who you are, and what strengths and values you possess. We then work together to identify how patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior may be holding you back from being the best version of yourself. I use evidence-based interventions (strategies proven successful through research) within a cognitive behavioral model. My style as a therapist is warm, nonjudgmental, and active. Whether you are hoping to improve your mood, develop more meaningful relationships, or learn skills to manage emotions, I'm here to support you through the ups and downs.
In my therapy work, it's important that I first learn who you are, and what strengths and values you possess. We then work together to identify how patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior may be holding you back from being the best version of yourself. I use evidence-based interventions (strategies proven successful through research) within a cognitive behavioral model. My style as a therapist is warm, nonjudgmental, and active. Whether you are hoping to improve your mood, develop more meaningful relationships, or learn skills to manage emotions, I'm here to support you through the ups and downs.
(202) 978-6659 View (202) 978-6659
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.