Photo of Jeff Pincin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Jeff Pincin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19713  (Online Only)
Video-based sessions available in Delaware and Pennsylvania. I treat OCD, anxiety, 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. Twitter and FB delawaretherapyservices
Video-based sessions available in Delaware and Pennsylvania. I treat OCD, anxiety, 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. Twitter and FB delawaretherapyservices
(302) 404-2419 View (302) 404-2419
Photo of Abby Emmert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Abby Emmert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dover, DE 19901  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Abby! My passion for treating eating disorders and OCD comes from my own journey to recovery. I love working with people that want to make change but are struggling with where to start. If you struggle with intrusive thoughts, ruminating thoughts, find yourself on an endless cycle of diets or hating your body, labeling foods good or bad and feeling guilty after you eat, or are struggling with understanding what thoughts you can believe and which ones you can't...then you came to the right place! I believe whole heartedly that you can recover from these disorders, and I am passionate about helping others do just that.
Hi, I'm Abby! My passion for treating eating disorders and OCD comes from my own journey to recovery. I love working with people that want to make change but are struggling with where to start. If you struggle with intrusive thoughts, ruminating thoughts, find yourself on an endless cycle of diets or hating your body, labeling foods good or bad and feeling guilty after you eat, or are struggling with understanding what thoughts you can believe and which ones you can't...then you came to the right place! I believe whole heartedly that you can recover from these disorders, and I am passionate about helping others do just that.
(215) 770-3869 View (215) 770-3869
Photo of CBT Center for Anxiety & OCD in Delaware
CBT Center for Anxiety & OCD
PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19801
The CBT Center for Anxiety and OCD believes in providing the community with the most cutting-edge, expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for anxiety, OCD, OC Spectrum Disorders and related conditions. We successfully treat clients with generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, social anxiety, phobias and panic. The Center also treats all OC Spectrum conditions including Body Dysmorphic Disorder, hoarding, caretakers of people who hoard, Trichotillomania (hair pulling), Excoriation (skin picking) and tics. We treat ALL forms of OCD including many of the lesser known types: relationship, existential, just right, pedophile, harm/violence, sexual orientation, hit & run, magical thinking, postpartum, moral scrupulosity/religious, symmetry/equalizing, health anxiety/hypochondriasis, olfactory reference syndrome (fear of body odor), muscle dysmorphia (obsessive focus on muscles), emotional contamination, PANS/PANDAS, orthorexia (obsession with healthy eating), sensorimotor/hyperawareness and hyper-responsibility. The Center also specializes in working with people who have anxiety co-occurring with introversion, giftedness, people-pleasing and perfectionism as well as Sensory Processing Disorder, Developmental Coordination Disorder, Dyslexia and medical conditions. We frequently treat individuals with comorbid depression, ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Specializing in anxiety, OCD and related conditions allows us to stay on top of the latest scientific research and utilize the most effective strategies for you.
The CBT Center for Anxiety and OCD believes in providing the community with the most cutting-edge, expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for anxiety, OCD, OC Spectrum Disorders and related conditions. We successfully treat clients with generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, social anxiety, phobias and panic. The Center also treats all OC Spectrum conditions including Body Dysmorphic Disorder, hoarding, caretakers of people who hoard, Trichotillomania (hair pulling), Excoriation (skin picking) and tics. We treat ALL forms of OCD including many of the lesser known types: relationship, existential, just right, pedophile, harm/violence, sexual orientation, hit & run, magical thinking, postpartum, moral scrupulosity/religious, symmetry/equalizing, health anxiety/hypochondriasis, olfactory reference syndrome (fear of body odor), muscle dysmorphia (obsessive focus on muscles), emotional contamination, PANS/PANDAS, orthorexia (obsession with healthy eating), sensorimotor/hyperawareness and hyper-responsibility. The Center also specializes in working with people who have anxiety co-occurring with introversion, giftedness, people-pleasing and perfectionism as well as Sensory Processing Disorder, Developmental Coordination Disorder, Dyslexia and medical conditions. We frequently treat individuals with comorbid depression, ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Specializing in anxiety, OCD and related conditions allows us to stay on top of the latest scientific research and utilize the most effective strategies for you.
(610) 756-1601 View (610) 756-1601
Photo of Willow Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Willow Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPMHC, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dover, DE 19901
At Willow Counseling Services, we understand the profound impact that fertility, perinatal, and women's health challenges can have on the fabric of everyday lives. We acknowledge that the journey through these experiences is anything but simple, and the well-meaning yet inadequate advice to 'just relax' fails to address the intricate emotional and psychological complexities that often arise. We're thrilled to announce an expansion of our services beyond perinatal mental health and women's health. We now include expertise in managing generalized anxiety, depression, OCD, Adult ADHD, eating disorders, and trauma-related stressors.
At Willow Counseling Services, we understand the profound impact that fertility, perinatal, and women's health challenges can have on the fabric of everyday lives. We acknowledge that the journey through these experiences is anything but simple, and the well-meaning yet inadequate advice to 'just relax' fails to address the intricate emotional and psychological complexities that often arise. We're thrilled to announce an expansion of our services beyond perinatal mental health and women's health. We now include expertise in managing generalized anxiety, depression, OCD, Adult ADHD, eating disorders, and trauma-related stressors.
(302) 599-6195 View (302) 599-6195
Photo of Natalie Palermo, Psychologist in Delaware
Natalie Palermo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19711
Waitlist for new clients
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 Insights Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Insights Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, CSTIP, TCT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19806  (Online Only)
It has been my pleasure to have helped clients overcome eating disorders, learn to control OCD, anxiety and depression, raise their self-esteem and improve their relationships.
Life is hard! We all struggle at some point along the way. The good news is that with support and the right tools we can make it through difficult times so that we can experience the joy that living also brings. Healing and personal growth begin with insights. Our goal at Insights Counseling is to help you gain personal insights that will help you make meaningful changes in your life and relationships. Our deepest desire is for you to LOVE you; after that, it's a piece of cake.
It has been my pleasure to have helped clients overcome eating disorders, learn to control OCD, anxiety and depression, raise their self-esteem and improve their relationships.
Life is hard! We all struggle at some point along the way. The good news is that with support and the right tools we can make it through difficult times so that we can experience the joy that living also brings. Healing and personal growth begin with insights. Our goal at Insights Counseling is to help you gain personal insights that will help you make meaningful changes in your life and relationships. Our deepest desire is for you to LOVE you; after that, it's a piece of cake.
(302) 205-1401 View (302) 205-1401
Photo of Megan Lynn Mullins, Counselor in Delaware
Megan Lynn Mullins
Counselor, LCPC, LPCMH, ACE CPT, Pn1
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19711
Waitlist for new clients
I have expertise in helping clients in healing from PTSD and complex trauma, attachment wounding/relationship issues, dissociative disorders, personality disorders, anxiety/OCD, eating disorders, performance anxiety/sports psych issues, self-esteem issues and grief.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience. I specialize in the use of EMDR, BSP (Brain Spotting), Internal Family Systems Therapy as well as RLT, AEDP, DBT, and ERP. I am also an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Precision Nutrition Certified Nutrition Coach. As a former D1 athlete, my approach to psychotherapy is a holistic one. My clients have specifically appreciated the rate at which they are able to experience benefits from therapy. I work out of two offices, one on Main Street in Newark (within walking distance of University of Delaware), the other in Elkton.
I have expertise in helping clients in healing from PTSD and complex trauma, attachment wounding/relationship issues, dissociative disorders, personality disorders, anxiety/OCD, eating disorders, performance anxiety/sports psych issues, self-esteem issues and grief.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience. I specialize in the use of EMDR, BSP (Brain Spotting), Internal Family Systems Therapy as well as RLT, AEDP, DBT, and ERP. I am also an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Precision Nutrition Certified Nutrition Coach. As a former D1 athlete, my approach to psychotherapy is a holistic one. My clients have specifically appreciated the rate at which they are able to experience benefits from therapy. I work out of two offices, one on Main Street in Newark (within walking distance of University of Delaware), the other in Elkton.
(302) 587-8395 View (302) 587-8395
Photo of Mary Yost, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Mary Yost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19807  (Online Only)
Mary is a licensed therapist who has spent years treating individuals for a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Mary’s goal is to help her clients better understand themselves in order to achieve lasting change.
Mary is a licensed therapist who has spent years treating individuals for a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Mary’s goal is to help her clients better understand themselves in order to achieve lasting change.
(302) 291-4895 View (302) 291-4895
Photo of Dr. Eric Johnson, Psychologist in Delaware
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 Elizabeth Wolske, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Elizabeth Wolske
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19801
I specialize in addressing anxiety, difficult thoughts and OCD, perinatal mental health, birth, parent-child interaction, and behavioral disorders.
I join clients who are struggling with anxiety, mood changes, and thoughts and behavior that disrupt their lives. Many of my clients feel removed from their lives and relationships, almost like they're watching as an outsider. My goal is to help clients feel happier, more in control, and more present in their lives. Let's start the conversation, what do you feel is holding you back?
I specialize in addressing anxiety, difficult thoughts and OCD, perinatal mental health, birth, parent-child interaction, and behavioral disorders.
I join clients who are struggling with anxiety, mood changes, and thoughts and behavior that disrupt their lives. Many of my clients feel removed from their lives and relationships, almost like they're watching as an outsider. My goal is to help clients feel happier, more in control, and more present in their lives. Let's start the conversation, what do you feel is holding you back?
(610) 609-8693 View (610) 609-8693
Photo of Huan-Tang Lu, Counselor in Delaware
Huan-Tang Lu
Counselor, PhD, LMHC/PC, ACS, RPT, RN
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801  (Online Only)
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
(617) 741-9360 View (617) 741-9360
Photo of Cid Vordenbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Cid Vordenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lewes, DE 19958
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over twenty-five years of experience and work with a wide range of clients. My approach to psychotherapy is goal-oriented and it is honest, direct and respectful, offering clients non-judgmental guidance in a safe environment. Within these parameters my approach to therapy is adjusted based on the needs of an individual client.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over twenty-five years of experience and work with a wide range of clients. My approach to psychotherapy is goal-oriented and it is honest, direct and respectful, offering clients non-judgmental guidance in a safe environment. Within these parameters my approach to therapy is adjusted based on the needs of an individual client.
(302) 208-4592 View (302) 208-4592
Photo of Shannon Tarolli, Mental Health Counselor in Delaware
Shannon Tarolli
Mental Health Counselor, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
Sometimes experiencing anxiety feels worse than anything else. You may feel overwhelmed, frustrated, irritable, worried about the uncertainty of life, and completely isolated from the world. Anxiety can lead to intrusive thoughts, avoidance of one or more situations, and reassurance-seeking from family and friends. Maybe anxiety causes you to obsess over things like-- "Did I make the right choice? What if something bad happens?" Anxiety is uncomfortable, physically and mentally draining, and, at times, depressing. You might feel a complete lack of control and find it hard to cope on a day to day basis.
Sometimes experiencing anxiety feels worse than anything else. You may feel overwhelmed, frustrated, irritable, worried about the uncertainty of life, and completely isolated from the world. Anxiety can lead to intrusive thoughts, avoidance of one or more situations, and reassurance-seeking from family and friends. Maybe anxiety causes you to obsess over things like-- "Did I make the right choice? What if something bad happens?" Anxiety is uncomfortable, physically and mentally draining, and, at times, depressing. You might feel a complete lack of control and find it hard to cope on a day to day basis.
(302) 286-9124 x101 View (302) 286-9124 x101
Photo of Micah Kotler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Delaware
Micah Kotler
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810  (Online Only)
Because therapy is not “one-size-fits-all,” our sessions will be adapted based on your specific needs, tailoring the sessions to align with your goals. No matter the challenges you are experiencing, I am committed to collaborating with you on your journey toward your best life. With time and therapeutic support, we can all heal, achieve growth, and become the best versions of ourselves. My mission is to create a secure and empathetic space where you can openly express yourself, gain intrapersonal insight, and feel truly heard. If you are ready to embark on a path of healing, growth, and self-discovery, I am here to support you.
Because therapy is not “one-size-fits-all,” our sessions will be adapted based on your specific needs, tailoring the sessions to align with your goals. No matter the challenges you are experiencing, I am committed to collaborating with you on your journey toward your best life. With time and therapeutic support, we can all heal, achieve growth, and become the best versions of ourselves. My mission is to create a secure and empathetic space where you can openly express yourself, gain intrapersonal insight, and feel truly heard. If you are ready to embark on a path of healing, growth, and self-discovery, I am here to support you.
(302) 548-3064 View (302) 548-3064
Photo of Caren Sabol, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Caren Sabol
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CDBT
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
Hi! I currently have daytime availability for in-person appointments and I respond to all email requests within 24 business hours so please check your junk mail if you haven't heard from me. I work adults of all ages. My focus is on working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, life stress/transitions, executive functioning challenges, emotional dysregulation, or self-harm. I specialize in building rapport with recent graduates, college students, young adults and adults approaching midlife as we work through stressor/adjustments in life. I offer clinical supervision to pre-licensed clinicians
Hi! I currently have daytime availability for in-person appointments and I respond to all email requests within 24 business hours so please check your junk mail if you haven't heard from me. I work adults of all ages. My focus is on working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, life stress/transitions, executive functioning challenges, emotional dysregulation, or self-harm. I specialize in building rapport with recent graduates, college students, young adults and adults approaching midlife as we work through stressor/adjustments in life. I offer clinical supervision to pre-licensed clinicians
(302) 550-8838 View (302) 550-8838
Photo of Jessica Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Jessica Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19808
Do you find yourself wondering if you fit into the world around you? Do you often find yourself reflecting on the way you view relationships or what's important in life and feeling...weird? out of place? different? So many of my clients feel this way. It can be so difficult to figure out who you really are in a world that is constantly trying to tell you WHO to be and HOW to be that person. It can also cause challenges in acknowledging and accepting your emotions and sharing those with others. If you're looking to find the "you-est" version of you, I'm here to help.
Do you find yourself wondering if you fit into the world around you? Do you often find yourself reflecting on the way you view relationships or what's important in life and feeling...weird? out of place? different? So many of my clients feel this way. It can be so difficult to figure out who you really are in a world that is constantly trying to tell you WHO to be and HOW to be that person. It can also cause challenges in acknowledging and accepting your emotions and sharing those with others. If you're looking to find the "you-est" version of you, I'm here to help.
(302) 205-1211 View (302) 205-1211
Photo of Kirsten Teklits, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Kirsten Teklits
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19806
Does fear or worry consume your time, keep you awake at night and prevent you from living the life you desire? Are you feeling tired, sad and hopeless about the future? Are you having distressing feelings such as guilt, anger or shame? If this describes you, I can help. I provide research-based treatment that teaches you the skills needed to solve your problems and feel better. It is my privilege to help people overcome obstacles, alleviate their pain and find joy and peace in their life.
Does fear or worry consume your time, keep you awake at night and prevent you from living the life you desire? Are you feeling tired, sad and hopeless about the future? Are you having distressing feelings such as guilt, anger or shame? If this describes you, I can help. I provide research-based treatment that teaches you the skills needed to solve your problems and feel better. It is my privilege to help people overcome obstacles, alleviate their pain and find joy and peace in their life.
(302) 527-6117 View (302) 527-6117
Photo of Newark Behavioral Health, Psychologist in Delaware
Newark Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19711
In-Person or Online Appointments! NBH has therapist available to help you with immediate, convenient appointments. We accept most major insurance providers. Conveniently located near the University of Delaware. NBH therapists approach each client with care and compassion. We have experience in helping children, teens, adults and couples to meet their goals and thrive! NBH counselors are all licensed professional who have been trained to help you with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger issues, addiction, and relationship problems, as well as many other issues.
In-Person or Online Appointments! NBH has therapist available to help you with immediate, convenient appointments. We accept most major insurance providers. Conveniently located near the University of Delaware. NBH therapists approach each client with care and compassion. We have experience in helping children, teens, adults and couples to meet their goals and thrive! NBH counselors are all licensed professional who have been trained to help you with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger issues, addiction, and relationship problems, as well as many other issues.
(302) 451-9219 View (302) 451-9219
Photo of Rhoda Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Rhoda Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19801
Now Accepting New Clients! Rhoda believes that everyone has a gift; it just takes some people longer to unwrap it. She has fourteen years of experience in The Behavioral Health Field, which includes Inpatient, Residential, and Community Mental Health settings. Some of the tools that she uses are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Her specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and Chronic Medical Issues. Rhoda also specializes in working with Individuals Diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease.
Now Accepting New Clients! Rhoda believes that everyone has a gift; it just takes some people longer to unwrap it. She has fourteen years of experience in The Behavioral Health Field, which includes Inpatient, Residential, and Community Mental Health settings. Some of the tools that she uses are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Her specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and Chronic Medical Issues. Rhoda also specializes in working with Individuals Diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease.
(302) 581-7566 View (302) 581-7566
Photo of Jean Turner, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Delaware
Jean Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19713
Jean Turner is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Delaware. She has a Post-Masters and M. A. in General Family Therapy. Jean likes to meet clients where they are and help them see their fullest potential by being solution focused and problem solving. Outside of work, Jean enjoys spending time with her family, exercising, and traveling.
Jean Turner is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Delaware. She has a Post-Masters and M. A. in General Family Therapy. Jean likes to meet clients where they are and help them see their fullest potential by being solution focused and problem solving. Outside of work, Jean enjoys spending time with her family, exercising, and traveling.
(302) 924-5118 View (302) 924-5118
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.