Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Laurel, DE

Photo of Beatrice H Hamilton - Delmarva Counseling Center LLC, EdD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Delmarva Counseling Center LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD
Verified Verified
Laurel, DE 19956
Department of Transportation mandates employees testing positive for alcohol/drugs must be removed from safety sensitive functions and evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), SAP duties: Conducts Face-to-Fact Substance Initial Evaluation; Makes referral to program provider; Conducts Case Management & follow-up Face-to-Face Evaluation upon employee's completion of required programs. Dr. Hamilton licenses: Lincensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist #LCM061, Maryland; Marriage and Family Therapist #FT-0000006, Delaware; SAP #10644; National Board Addiction Examiner Diplomat #05564; License Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor #LCA088, Maryland; Chemical Dependency Professional #CD-0000023, Delaware; Doctoral Addiction Counselor #5564. Memberships: American Psychological Association #7842-0105; American Association for Marriage Family Therapy Clinical #35494; NAADAC #83548
Department of Transportation mandates employees testing positive for alcohol/drugs must be removed from safety sensitive functions and evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), SAP duties: Conducts Face-to-Fact Substance Initial Evaluation; Makes referral to program provider; Conducts Case Management & follow-up Face-to-Face Evaluation upon employee's completion of required programs. Dr. Hamilton licenses: Lincensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist #LCM061, Maryland; Marriage and Family Therapist #FT-0000006, Delaware; SAP #10644; National Board Addiction Examiner Diplomat #05564; License Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor #LCA088, Maryland; Chemical Dependency Professional #CD-0000023, Delaware; Doctoral Addiction Counselor #5564. Memberships: American Psychological Association #7842-0105; American Association for Marriage Family Therapy Clinical #35494; NAADAC #83548
(410) 489-1027 View (410) 489-1027

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Eric Johnson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Eric Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaford, DE 19973
I am also proficient with prolonged exposure therapy (PET) for PTSD and exposure therapy/ritual prevention for OCD.
I founded Compass Mental Wellness Services to bring a new level of mental health care to Sussex county, understanding that psychotherapy has approximately 60% positive outcomes overall. When you add any complexity to an individual case, the likely hood of positive outcomes decreases even further. I have strived to build a model of psychotherapy that can be used with any therapeutic technique but uses neuropsychological principles to enhance treatment by working with the brain instead of against it. I also utilizes cutting-edge neurophysiological treatment techniques to enhance treatment and enhance positive outcomes.
I am also proficient with prolonged exposure therapy (PET) for PTSD and exposure therapy/ritual prevention for OCD.
I founded Compass Mental Wellness Services to bring a new level of mental health care to Sussex county, understanding that psychotherapy has approximately 60% positive outcomes overall. When you add any complexity to an individual case, the likely hood of positive outcomes decreases even further. I have strived to build a model of psychotherapy that can be used with any therapeutic technique but uses neuropsychological principles to enhance treatment by working with the brain instead of against it. I also utilizes cutting-edge neurophysiological treatment techniques to enhance treatment and enhance positive outcomes.
(302) 231-0054 View (302) 231-0054
Photo of Derek William Hopler, LPCMH, Counselor
Derek William Hopler
Counselor, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Seaford, DE 19973
I have been privileged to work in mental health for 20 years helping individuals and families make the changes they want to improve their lives. I believe that self trust and understanding can help any individual find personal heatlh and wellness.
I have been privileged to work in mental health for 20 years helping individuals and families make the changes they want to improve their lives. I believe that self trust and understanding can help any individual find personal heatlh and wellness.
(302) 505-5772 View (302) 505-5772
Photo of Natasha Mullen - Natasha Mullen, Milestones Consultants, LPCMH, LMSW, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natasha Mullen, Milestones Consultants
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, LMSW, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seaford, DE 19973  (Online Only)
Anxiety is a normal response to life situations. However, sometimes it can be overwhelming with self-criticism, overthinking, second-guessing, and fears of failure that affect our functioning at work, in our home and other relationships. Anxiety can also affect our eating and sleeping habits. Milestones' clinician can help you identify the root of your anxiety, how it serves and protects you and ways to manage it so you feel normal again (or maybe for the first time). We are here to listen without judgement or criticism, creating a safe place for you to be your true self. Contact us today and let the journey begin!
Anxiety is a normal response to life situations. However, sometimes it can be overwhelming with self-criticism, overthinking, second-guessing, and fears of failure that affect our functioning at work, in our home and other relationships. Anxiety can also affect our eating and sleeping habits. Milestones' clinician can help you identify the root of your anxiety, how it serves and protects you and ways to manage it so you feel normal again (or maybe for the first time). We are here to listen without judgement or criticism, creating a safe place for you to be your true self. Contact us today and let the journey begin!
(302) 613-2067 View (302) 613-2067
Photo of Natasha Lynn Mullen - Milestones Consultants, LPC, LMSW, ACS
Milestones Consultants
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LMSW, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaford, DE 19973  (Online Only)
I never though of it that way" is a common statement we hear from our clients when we teach them that their feelings, thoughts and behaviors are protectors responding to being in survival mode. When someone is able to understand their behavior and allow themselves compassion and grace, they can truly work on changing. Our negative self talk (critical part) causes us to remain the same out of fear. In session, we embrace those thoughts, feelings and behaviors because they are all accepted and have a purpose. Let's work on your critical voice so that you can truly enjoy life.
I never though of it that way" is a common statement we hear from our clients when we teach them that their feelings, thoughts and behaviors are protectors responding to being in survival mode. When someone is able to understand their behavior and allow themselves compassion and grace, they can truly work on changing. Our negative self talk (critical part) causes us to remain the same out of fear. In session, we embrace those thoughts, feelings and behaviors because they are all accepted and have a purpose. Let's work on your critical voice so that you can truly enjoy life.
(301) 273-1441 View (301) 273-1441
Photo of Marion F Travers @ Lifemark, EdD, LCPC, LCADC, MAC, CRC
Marion F Travers @ Lifemark
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LCADC, MAC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaford, DE 19973
Waitlist for new clients
LifeMark provides quality, clinical psychotherapy with a committment to excellence. We serve culturally diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups and enjoy working with people of all ages. We accommodate the individual needs of each of our clients and consider it a privilege to lean in to their stories and walk with them toward healing and wholeness. Our therapists are credentialed as Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselors, Master Addictions Counselors, National Certified Counselors, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselors.
LifeMark provides quality, clinical psychotherapy with a committment to excellence. We serve culturally diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups and enjoy working with people of all ages. We accommodate the individual needs of each of our clients and consider it a privilege to lean in to their stories and walk with them toward healing and wholeness. Our therapists are credentialed as Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselors, Master Addictions Counselors, National Certified Counselors, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselors.
(443) 275-5361 View (443) 275-5361
Photo of Eric Johnson - Compass Mental Wellness Services, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Compass Mental Wellness Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seaford, DE 19973
At Compass Mental Wellness Services, LLC we offer a wide range of treatments to match our patients personal needs. However, what sets us apart is our dedication to positive outcomes through compassion, innovation, and neuroscience. During psychotherapy, you learn about your condition and your moods, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Psychotherapy helps you learn how to take control of your life and respond to challenging situations with healthy coping skills. There are many types of psychotherapy, each with its own approach.
At Compass Mental Wellness Services, LLC we offer a wide range of treatments to match our patients personal needs. However, what sets us apart is our dedication to positive outcomes through compassion, innovation, and neuroscience. During psychotherapy, you learn about your condition and your moods, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Psychotherapy helps you learn how to take control of your life and respond to challenging situations with healthy coping skills. There are many types of psychotherapy, each with its own approach.
(302) 321-2161 View (302) 321-2161
Photo of Charles Basel, LPCMH  , NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Basel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH , NCC
Verified Verified
Seaford, DE 19973
Hi! My name is Chip Basel and I am a licensed professional counselor of mental health located in Seaford, Delaware. I am passionate about working with adolescents, and adults who are struggling with life’s problems. I also take pride to specialize in couples counseling, Christian counseling, and am interested in issues including trauma and I am certified in attachment disorders . My training, knowledge, passion, and experience have led me on the journey to work with many kinds of people with varying issues. These include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, and attention deficit disorders.
Hi! My name is Chip Basel and I am a licensed professional counselor of mental health located in Seaford, Delaware. I am passionate about working with adolescents, and adults who are struggling with life’s problems. I also take pride to specialize in couples counseling, Christian counseling, and am interested in issues including trauma and I am certified in attachment disorders . My training, knowledge, passion, and experience have led me on the journey to work with many kinds of people with varying issues. These include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, and attention deficit disorders.
(302) 209-9233 View (302) 209-9233
Photo of Meredith Phillips-Woodard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Phillips-Woodard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seaford, DE 19973
I am here to work with you to achieve your counseling goals. I bring 25 years of healthcare experience working with: healthcare needs, crisis intervention, behavioral health assessments and brief counseling. I want to work with you to achieve your goals through multiple counseling modalities. After an assessment of your needs and goals, we will work together towards achieving your goals in an open, honest and safe environment. I counsel individuals who are age 18 years of age and older. I provide tele-health and in person appointments. No walk ins. Appointments are necessary.
I am here to work with you to achieve your counseling goals. I bring 25 years of healthcare experience working with: healthcare needs, crisis intervention, behavioral health assessments and brief counseling. I want to work with you to achieve your goals through multiple counseling modalities. After an assessment of your needs and goals, we will work together towards achieving your goals in an open, honest and safe environment. I counsel individuals who are age 18 years of age and older. I provide tele-health and in person appointments. No walk ins. Appointments are necessary.
(302) 248-1147 View (302) 248-1147
Photo of Geneva Barnes - Barnes Mental Health Services, LLC, LPCMH, CAADC, NCC, Counselor
Barnes Mental Health Services, LLC
Counselor, LPCMH, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Delmar, DE 19940  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical professional mental health counselor with a range of knowledge and experience, it's important to meet people "where they are," emotionally, spiritually, and psychologically. My approach to counseling is cognitive behavioral targeted towards empowerment of the client, changing negative thinking patterns and identifying client strengths to bring positive life altering changes. Other modalities of treatment are utilized as necessary, tailored to client needs. I work with individuals, families, couples, and veterans.
As a licensed clinical professional mental health counselor with a range of knowledge and experience, it's important to meet people "where they are," emotionally, spiritually, and psychologically. My approach to counseling is cognitive behavioral targeted towards empowerment of the client, changing negative thinking patterns and identifying client strengths to bring positive life altering changes. Other modalities of treatment are utilized as necessary, tailored to client needs. I work with individuals, families, couples, and veterans.
(302) 459-8138 View (302) 459-8138
Photo of Sarah Betts, LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Betts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Seaford, DE 19973
Hello, my name is Sarah Betts. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working in Seaford, Delaware. My work experiences have allowed me to assist children, adolescents, and adults with mental health struggles. A perspective that I hold to is that life can be challenging but there is no need to go through it alone. Another belief that fuels my work is the acknowledgment that there can be negative situations but there is always an opportunity for redemption and a good outcome. I work with older adolescents and adults who want or need a change in their life but might not know how to go about it.
Hello, my name is Sarah Betts. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working in Seaford, Delaware. My work experiences have allowed me to assist children, adolescents, and adults with mental health struggles. A perspective that I hold to is that life can be challenging but there is no need to go through it alone. Another belief that fuels my work is the acknowledgment that there can be negative situations but there is always an opportunity for redemption and a good outcome. I work with older adolescents and adults who want or need a change in their life but might not know how to go about it.
(302) 548-3227 View (302) 548-3227
Photo of Rachel Antezana, LGPC, LACMH, NCC, Counselor
Rachel Antezana
Counselor, LGPC, LACMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seaford, DE 19973
My ideal client would be someone that is willing to put in the work in order to become emotionally, physically, and spiritually well.
My ideal client would be someone that is willing to put in the work in order to become emotionally, physically, and spiritually well.
(302) 564-1751 View (302) 564-1751
Photo of Richelle Clark - TLC Counseling Services, LPCMH, NCC, Counselor
TLC Counseling Services
Counselor, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seaford, DE 19973
Not accepting new clients
Are you searching to improve your life or relationships? Are you experiencing transitions in your life or a conflict? Do you have friends or family members who are struggling with making life decisions, feeling depressed, or having difficulties expressing feelings with others? Have you ever had a traumatic experience that is impacting your daily functioning and you are searching for emotional, physical and or spiritual healing?
Are you searching to improve your life or relationships? Are you experiencing transitions in your life or a conflict? Do you have friends or family members who are struggling with making life decisions, feeling depressed, or having difficulties expressing feelings with others? Have you ever had a traumatic experience that is impacting your daily functioning and you are searching for emotional, physical and or spiritual healing?
(302) 404-0982 View (302) 404-0982

Online Therapists

Photo of Kathy Rupertus - The Anxiety and OCD Treatment Center, PsyD, Psychologist
The Anxiety and OCD Treatment Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19809
If anxiety is disrupting your life or the life of a loved one, you know how difficult it can be to find the help you need. The Anxiety and OCD Treatment Center, LLC (AOTC) is here to help you restore a sense of hope, confront your fears, and transform your relationship with anxiety. Scientific research shows that when cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacological treatments are applied, anxiety disorders are amongst the most treatable mental health problems. AOTC has over 26 years of experience providing these well-researched cognitive behavioral treatments to children, adolescents, and adults. Our treatment philosophy involves customizing therapy for each individual client, utilizing the most current empirically-supported approaches and techniques available. When indicated, treatment may include spouses, family members, and other loved ones in addition to individual sessions. We work in close collaboration with medical professionals when medication is a component of treatment. In situations where anxiety has impaired a child or adolescent's academic functioning, advocacy meetings and consultations involving school personnel and teachers may also be included.
If anxiety is disrupting your life or the life of a loved one, you know how difficult it can be to find the help you need. The Anxiety and OCD Treatment Center, LLC (AOTC) is here to help you restore a sense of hope, confront your fears, and transform your relationship with anxiety. Scientific research shows that when cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacological treatments are applied, anxiety disorders are amongst the most treatable mental health problems. AOTC has over 26 years of experience providing these well-researched cognitive behavioral treatments to children, adolescents, and adults. Our treatment philosophy involves customizing therapy for each individual client, utilizing the most current empirically-supported approaches and techniques available. When indicated, treatment may include spouses, family members, and other loved ones in addition to individual sessions. We work in close collaboration with medical professionals when medication is a component of treatment. In situations where anxiety has impaired a child or adolescent's academic functioning, advocacy meetings and consultations involving school personnel and teachers may also be included.
(302) 208-5831 View (302) 208-5831
Photo of Natalie Palermo, PsyD, Psychologist
Natalie Palermo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, DE 19711
Welcome, I am so glad you are here! I am Dr. Natalie Palermo, a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate therapy for adults seeking healing and personal growth. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, complex trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Through compassionate exploration and evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop coping strategies and foster growth. Together, we embark on a journey towards healing and self-discovery.
Welcome, I am so glad you are here! I am Dr. Natalie Palermo, a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate therapy for adults seeking healing and personal growth. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, complex trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Through compassionate exploration and evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop coping strategies and foster growth. Together, we embark on a journey towards healing and self-discovery.
(302) 281-1818 View (302) 281-1818
Photo of Jeff Pincin, LPCMH, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Pincin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19713  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Video-based sessions available anywhere in Delaware and Pennsylvania. I treat anxiety, all themes of OCD, tic disorder, BFRBs, hoarding disorder, depression, stress, and worry, among others. My approach involves Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD treatment, HRT for BFRBs, behavior activation, and CBT. You have the ability to feel better and counseling is a great first step. The goal of each session is increased ability to cope with adversity and feel more like your ideal self. Clinical supervision available. OCD Support group also available 1:00-2:00 the 3rd Tuesday each month.
Video-based sessions available anywhere in Delaware and Pennsylvania. I treat anxiety, all themes of OCD, tic disorder, BFRBs, hoarding disorder, depression, stress, and worry, among others. My approach involves Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD treatment, HRT for BFRBs, behavior activation, and CBT. You have the ability to feel better and counseling is a great first step. The goal of each session is increased ability to cope with adversity and feel more like your ideal self. Clinical supervision available. OCD Support group also available 1:00-2:00 the 3rd Tuesday each month.
(302) 404-2419 View (302) 404-2419
Photo of Misti Slaughter - Misti Slaughter - NOCD, LCPC, Counselor
Misti Slaughter - NOCD
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19804  (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
For as long as I can remember, I have been deeply empathetic. As a child, I didn’t understand what this was, except that I cared and felt profoundly for everyone around me. This led to a desire to help others find joy and strength in themselves. Seeing the pieces start to come together for someone—to hear them express more comfort in their daily lives and believe in themselves—is, for me, the most fulfilling aspect of being a therapist. At N OCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
For as long as I can remember, I have been deeply empathetic. As a child, I didn’t understand what this was, except that I cared and felt profoundly for everyone around me. This led to a desire to help others find joy and strength in themselves. Seeing the pieces start to come together for someone—to hear them express more comfort in their daily lives and believe in themselves—is, for me, the most fulfilling aspect of being a therapist. At N OCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
(302) 204-0806 View (302) 204-0806
Photo of Dr. Abby Bugbee, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Abby Bugbee
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
I am rigorously trained in CBT and ERP and specialize in anxiety, OCD, and women's health treatment.
I enjoy working with late adolescents and adults throughout the lifespan. I've had the opportunity to specialize in treating anxiety, OCD and OC spectrum disorders, which includes excoriation ( skin picking) and trichotillamania ( hair pulling). I also have extensive training in treating women's health, which includes sexual health, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and infertility. As a therapist, I care deeply for the well-being of my clients. I believe successful treatment starts with a positive client-therapist relationship, and I strive to be genuine, collaborative, and creative so I can best help you reach your goals!
I am rigorously trained in CBT and ERP and specialize in anxiety, OCD, and women's health treatment.
I enjoy working with late adolescents and adults throughout the lifespan. I've had the opportunity to specialize in treating anxiety, OCD and OC spectrum disorders, which includes excoriation ( skin picking) and trichotillamania ( hair pulling). I also have extensive training in treating women's health, which includes sexual health, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and infertility. As a therapist, I care deeply for the well-being of my clients. I believe successful treatment starts with a positive client-therapist relationship, and I strive to be genuine, collaborative, and creative so I can best help you reach your goals!
(302) 314-2994 View (302) 314-2994
Photo of Adriana Delgado - Adriana Delgado - NOCD, LMHC, Counselor
Adriana Delgado - NOCD
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19804  (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
I know that living with OCD can be overwhelming. At N OCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. Additionally, we have received training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with N OCD Therapy, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues – this will depend on your preference and availability. We’ll work to get to know you and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
I know that living with OCD can be overwhelming. At N OCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. Additionally, we have received training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with N OCD Therapy, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues – this will depend on your preference and availability. We’ll work to get to know you and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
(302) 306-2758 View (302) 306-2758
Photo of Mia S. Dorman - Mbue Health, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mbue Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Middletown, DE 19709  (Online Only)
Issues: Struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress Facing work-related burnout or chronic fatigue Dealing with life transitions such as divorce, loss, or career changes Experiencing relationship difficulties or family conflicts Battling addiction or substance abuse Coping with trauma or PTSD Needing support for managing chronic mental health conditions like bipolar disorder or OCD Needs: Accessible and convenient mental health support Flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles Confidential and secure teletherapy sessions Evidence-based therapeutic approaches Personalized treatment plans Supportive and empathetic therap
Issues: Struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress Facing work-related burnout or chronic fatigue Dealing with life transitions such as divorce, loss, or career changes Experiencing relationship difficulties or family conflicts Battling addiction or substance abuse Coping with trauma or PTSD Needing support for managing chronic mental health conditions like bipolar disorder or OCD Needs: Accessible and convenient mental health support Flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles Confidential and secure teletherapy sessions Evidence-based therapeutic approaches Personalized treatment plans Supportive and empathetic therap
(302) 754-3455 View (302) 754-3455

See more therapy options for Laurel

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.