Photo of Jenna Sheftel, Psychologist in Illinois
Jenna Sheftel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
According to the International OCD Foundation, it can take 14–17 years to get appropriate diagnosis & treatment for OCD.
Jenna Sheftel is a licensed clinical psychologist and the clinical director at the National Anxiety Institute, Ltd. She is an expert in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders. Her practice is focused on providing effective and long-lasting treatment using the latest Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions. Each course of therapy is tailored to the individual patient. She has an empathetic, collaborative style to create an environment of hope and possibility. Dr. Sheftel works with adolescents and adults. A unique component of her practice is her ability to treat individuals across the US.
According to the International OCD Foundation, it can take 14–17 years to get appropriate diagnosis & treatment for OCD.
Jenna Sheftel is a licensed clinical psychologist and the clinical director at the National Anxiety Institute, Ltd. She is an expert in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders. Her practice is focused on providing effective and long-lasting treatment using the latest Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions. Each course of therapy is tailored to the individual patient. She has an empathetic, collaborative style to create an environment of hope and possibility. Dr. Sheftel works with adolescents and adults. A unique component of her practice is her ability to treat individuals across the US.
(847) 485-1907 View (847) 485-1907
Photo of Flourish Counseling & Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Flourish Counseling & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
We specialize in women's and perinatal mental health, including: postpartum anxiety/depression/OCD, grief, relationship issues (couple/parent-child), birth, pregnancy loss, infertility, and parenthood.
Flourish Counseling & Wellness is a group practice providing counseling, advocacy and resources focused on women's and perinatal mental health - from fertility to pregnancy, through postpartum and parenthood. We envision a world where families have the information and support they need to heal, connect and flourish. To support that vision, we have assembled an experienced group of clinicians to serve clients in Chicago, Oak Park, and throughout Illinois. Our team consists of clinical social workers, psychologists, PhDs, marriage/family therapists, certified perinatal mental health clinicians, and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
We specialize in women's and perinatal mental health, including: postpartum anxiety/depression/OCD, grief, relationship issues (couple/parent-child), birth, pregnancy loss, infertility, and parenthood.
Flourish Counseling & Wellness is a group practice providing counseling, advocacy and resources focused on women's and perinatal mental health - from fertility to pregnancy, through postpartum and parenthood. We envision a world where families have the information and support they need to heal, connect and flourish. To support that vision, we have assembled an experienced group of clinicians to serve clients in Chicago, Oak Park, and throughout Illinois. Our team consists of clinical social workers, psychologists, PhDs, marriage/family therapists, certified perinatal mental health clinicians, and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
(630) 394-8367 x1 View (630) 394-8367 x1
Photo of Jennifer Black, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
Jennifer Black
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LBS1, MSEd
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
(224) 830-9800 View (224) 830-9800
Photo of Madeline Lee Sullenberger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Madeline Lee Sullenberger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
I bring 15 years of experience working with children and families. I specialize in working with children aged 0-12 who are experiencing behavior problems, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, OCD, ADHD/executive function challenges, depression, grief and loss, poor self-concept, identity confusion, gender issues, school refusal, educational issues, PTSD/trauma, and social issues. I am adept at providing parents the guidance and support needed for them to be able to facilitate their child’s growth and healing.
I bring 15 years of experience working with children and families. I specialize in working with children aged 0-12 who are experiencing behavior problems, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, OCD, ADHD/executive function challenges, depression, grief and loss, poor self-concept, identity confusion, gender issues, school refusal, educational issues, PTSD/trauma, and social issues. I am adept at providing parents the guidance and support needed for them to be able to facilitate their child’s growth and healing.
(224) 276-7568 View (224) 276-7568
Photo of Amy Kallenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Amy Kallenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Painful past experiences and current life stressors can equally challenge our sense of self and our connections with others. Often without realizing it, we can continue to operate from old patterns long after they have stopped serving us.
Painful past experiences and current life stressors can equally challenge our sense of self and our connections with others. Often without realizing it, we can continue to operate from old patterns long after they have stopped serving us.
(773) 922-6798 View (773) 922-6798
Photo of Maggie Dix, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Maggie Dix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Due to the high demand for highly effective group therapy, I am only accepting group therapy clients. Group therapy is often the answer for people who have read a million self help books, have been in one-on-one therapy for years, and have tried all kinds of meds, but their anxiety hasn't gotten better. My groups are a good fit for anyone who believes 3 devastating myths about mental health: 1) I'm the only one who has this problem, 2)I am crazy or will go crazy 3) my symptoms are so severe, so unique, so chronic that I am incurable.
Due to the high demand for highly effective group therapy, I am only accepting group therapy clients. Group therapy is often the answer for people who have read a million self help books, have been in one-on-one therapy for years, and have tried all kinds of meds, but their anxiety hasn't gotten better. My groups are a good fit for anyone who believes 3 devastating myths about mental health: 1) I'm the only one who has this problem, 2)I am crazy or will go crazy 3) my symptoms are so severe, so unique, so chronic that I am incurable.
(224) 802-3735 View (224) 802-3735
Photo of Present Moment Journeys - Pemba B Bayo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Present Moment Journeys - Pemba B Bayo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60626
Welcome to the Present Moment Journeys practice. We are all on a journey traversing the complexities of modern daily living. Often the routes we choose are met with obstacles from the past and the uncertainties of the future. At Present Moment Journeys, we are here to resolve past sufferings, solve present issues, and evolve your future, opening you to the joy of the present moment. Pemba B Bayo, LCSW, is a hypnoanalyst in Chicago, IL. Pemba has served persons of all ages as a child development center director, elder caregiver, and case manager and now as a licensed clinical social worker.
Welcome to the Present Moment Journeys practice. We are all on a journey traversing the complexities of modern daily living. Often the routes we choose are met with obstacles from the past and the uncertainties of the future. At Present Moment Journeys, we are here to resolve past sufferings, solve present issues, and evolve your future, opening you to the joy of the present moment. Pemba B Bayo, LCSW, is a hypnoanalyst in Chicago, IL. Pemba has served persons of all ages as a child development center director, elder caregiver, and case manager and now as a licensed clinical social worker.
(773) 825-8687 View (773) 825-8687
Photo of John Kamilis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
John Kamilis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I have accumulated over 20 years of experience providing individual counseling, family therapy, and marital counseling to adolescents and all adults dealing with variety of issues and concerns. I received my bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and graduated with my master's degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
I have accumulated over 20 years of experience providing individual counseling, family therapy, and marital counseling to adolescents and all adults dealing with variety of issues and concerns. I received my bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and graduated with my master's degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
(847) 278-9381 View (847) 278-9381
Photo of Life Aligned Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Life Aligned Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
NOW Accepting New Clients! We are here to support you. Life Aligned Counseling offers individual and couples counseling services. Our team of therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, loss and grief, relationship issues, self-esteem and self-concept, family conflict, stress management, spirituality, significant life transitions, lgbtqia+ concerns, women's issues, men's issues, etc.
NOW Accepting New Clients! We are here to support you. Life Aligned Counseling offers individual and couples counseling services. Our team of therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, loss and grief, relationship issues, self-esteem and self-concept, family conflict, stress management, spirituality, significant life transitions, lgbtqia+ concerns, women's issues, men's issues, etc.
(312) 465-4221 View (312) 465-4221
Photo of Nicholas Barry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Nicholas Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Nicholas Barry is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry, double majoring in Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies, at Urshan College. After completing his undergraduate studies, Nicholas embarked on a bi-vocational journey through graduate school. He has earned a Master of Social Work through Florida State University and is completing a Master of Theological Studies at Urshan Graduate School of Theology. Nicholas takes a truly holistic approach to working with his clients. This means that he takes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment.
Nicholas Barry is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry, double majoring in Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies, at Urshan College. After completing his undergraduate studies, Nicholas embarked on a bi-vocational journey through graduate school. He has earned a Master of Social Work through Florida State University and is completing a Master of Theological Studies at Urshan Graduate School of Theology. Nicholas takes a truly holistic approach to working with his clients. This means that he takes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment.
(708) 381-1779 View (708) 381-1779
Photo of Kaitlin Naatjes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Kaitlin Naatjes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
An integrative and holistic approach to change, healing, and future growth. Assessing your own being, needs, and internal control while promoting health in the mind-body-and soul. Therapy can heal relationships in your personal and professional worlds. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, communication skills, grief, infertility, eating disorders, etc., you do not have to struggle alone. As a licensed clinical therapist, I commit to diligently working in collaboration with you to bring about the change you desire. I am an experienced therapist, trained yoga instructor, and reiki practitioner.
An integrative and holistic approach to change, healing, and future growth. Assessing your own being, needs, and internal control while promoting health in the mind-body-and soul. Therapy can heal relationships in your personal and professional worlds. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, communication skills, grief, infertility, eating disorders, etc., you do not have to struggle alone. As a licensed clinical therapist, I commit to diligently working in collaboration with you to bring about the change you desire. I am an experienced therapist, trained yoga instructor, and reiki practitioner.
(312) 626-5075 View (312) 626-5075
Photo of Ana Varan, Counselor in Illinois
Ana Varan
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60004  (Online Only)
Are you feeling disconnected or overwhelmed in your relationships? Perhaps you're struggling with communication barriers, trust issues, or navigating significant life transitions. If so, you're in the right place. Here at our practice, we specialize in supporting individuals like you through the complexities of relationship difficulties.
Are you feeling disconnected or overwhelmed in your relationships? Perhaps you're struggling with communication barriers, trust issues, or navigating significant life transitions. If so, you're in the right place. Here at our practice, we specialize in supporting individuals like you through the complexities of relationship difficulties.
(847) 241-1582 View (847) 241-1582
Photo of Katrina Ramirez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Katrina Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612
Healing can be a journey. Engaging in a space where your authentic self can shine can make that journey a bit less difficult. I try to create a space that is welcoming to your thoughts, feelings, and self-energy. I mostly work with people of marginalized communities (i.e. BIPoC, LGBTQ+, First-Gen/Immigrants), trauma survivors, and creatives. My past experiences including working with people with psychosis, sexual violence trauma, and gender affirming/supportive care.
Healing can be a journey. Engaging in a space where your authentic self can shine can make that journey a bit less difficult. I try to create a space that is welcoming to your thoughts, feelings, and self-energy. I mostly work with people of marginalized communities (i.e. BIPoC, LGBTQ+, First-Gen/Immigrants), trauma survivors, and creatives. My past experiences including working with people with psychosis, sexual violence trauma, and gender affirming/supportive care.
(773) 839-0278 View (773) 839-0278
Photo of David Rothblatt, Counselor in Illinois
David Rothblatt
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy helping clients develop greater insight into where they are and where they would like to be, helping them improve relationships, careers, creative endeavors, and their overall ability to find clarity and a deep sense of meaning. I teach clients creative ways to connect with the wisest parts of themselves so they can progress in their lives with equanimity and confidence. My clinical experience includes treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, as well as interpersonal and relationship issues. I also have a strong ability to help artists and other creative individuals to become more effective versions of themselves.
I enjoy helping clients develop greater insight into where they are and where they would like to be, helping them improve relationships, careers, creative endeavors, and their overall ability to find clarity and a deep sense of meaning. I teach clients creative ways to connect with the wisest parts of themselves so they can progress in their lives with equanimity and confidence. My clinical experience includes treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, as well as interpersonal and relationship issues. I also have a strong ability to help artists and other creative individuals to become more effective versions of themselves.
(312) 374-6207 View (312) 374-6207
Photo of Christine Look, Psychologist in Illinois
Christine Look
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Dr. Christine T. Look is a Psychologist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1998. Dr. Look works with individuals, couples, and families facing life challenges. As a psychologist, she sees therapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist. Her role is to provide a safe and confidential space for clients, to understand the nature of their concerns and the challenges facing them. Together, Dr. Look works with clients to identify therapy goals that will create positive changes in their life. The process of therapy is individual.
Dr. Christine T. Look is a Psychologist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1998. Dr. Look works with individuals, couples, and families facing life challenges. As a psychologist, she sees therapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist. Her role is to provide a safe and confidential space for clients, to understand the nature of their concerns and the challenges facing them. Together, Dr. Look works with clients to identify therapy goals that will create positive changes in their life. The process of therapy is individual.
(708) 766-7139 View (708) 766-7139
Photo of Lori Ashbaugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Lori Ashbaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Waitlist for new clients
We all experience trauma in our lives, and sometimes severe life stressors leave us feeling stuck. As an ally, teacher, and therapist, Lori collaborates with you to go from surviving to thriving. She understands that healing is dynamic, and provides a mind-body-spirit approach to treatment. Therapy is an opportunity to honor our experience and become friends with ourselves. Lori uses a combination of holistic modalities including EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and movement to tackle core issues.
We all experience trauma in our lives, and sometimes severe life stressors leave us feeling stuck. As an ally, teacher, and therapist, Lori collaborates with you to go from surviving to thriving. She understands that healing is dynamic, and provides a mind-body-spirit approach to treatment. Therapy is an opportunity to honor our experience and become friends with ourselves. Lori uses a combination of holistic modalities including EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and movement to tackle core issues.
(630) 473-9671 View (630) 473-9671
Photo of Kristen Melchiori, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Kristen Melchiori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Kristen Melchiori has a wealth of experience working with clients in a variety of levels of care. Having worked in foster care, therapeutic day school, substance abuse residential, and community mental health, she is able to help clients navigate complex external systems. She is adept at handling crisis situations and helping clients manage the most difficult times in their lives. She uses a trauma informed approach to help individuals make new meaning in their lives and find their personal path to success.
Kristen Melchiori has a wealth of experience working with clients in a variety of levels of care. Having worked in foster care, therapeutic day school, substance abuse residential, and community mental health, she is able to help clients navigate complex external systems. She is adept at handling crisis situations and helping clients manage the most difficult times in their lives. She uses a trauma informed approach to help individuals make new meaning in their lives and find their personal path to success.
(331) 254-4290 View (331) 254-4290
Photo of Cai Fasse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Cai Fasse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I approach counseling with empathy and acceptance through an intersectional lens. I support clients through short-term goals, long-term processing of trauma/past experiences, and the impact on the present using their existing strengths and interests. The therapeutic relationship itself is an effective avenue of healing and as such I value open communication.
I approach counseling with empathy and acceptance through an intersectional lens. I support clients through short-term goals, long-term processing of trauma/past experiences, and the impact on the present using their existing strengths and interests. The therapeutic relationship itself is an effective avenue of healing and as such I value open communication.
(847) 243-6591 View (847) 243-6591
Photo of Liz Brach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Liz Brach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I believe in a client-centered approach, tailoring my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual. Through a collaborative and empathetic process, you can expect a caring and respectful therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect. I support you by creating a secure and non-judgmental space where vulnerability is considered a strength, empowerment flourishes, and goals are met so you can get your life back.
I believe in a client-centered approach, tailoring my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual. Through a collaborative and empathetic process, you can expect a caring and respectful therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect. I support you by creating a secure and non-judgmental space where vulnerability is considered a strength, empowerment flourishes, and goals are met so you can get your life back.
(872) 246-7449 View (872) 246-7449
Photo of Cory Dolley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Cory Dolley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Not Verified Not Verified
Darien, IL 60561
Cory Dolley is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2019. Cory just wants to be able to help give people a fighting chance to have a healthy, happy, productive life. Perhaps you are someone in your late 20's to 60's and are not used to asking for help because you were taught early never to show vulnerability. Perhaps you are dealing with unacknowledged trauma from years ago that was never seriously addressed. All you know is that you are in pain, and that pain is affecting all your other relationships, making it harder to reach out to others, hard to trust anyone.
Cory Dolley is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2019. Cory just wants to be able to help give people a fighting chance to have a healthy, happy, productive life. Perhaps you are someone in your late 20's to 60's and are not used to asking for help because you were taught early never to show vulnerability. Perhaps you are dealing with unacknowledged trauma from years ago that was never seriously addressed. All you know is that you are in pain, and that pain is affecting all your other relationships, making it harder to reach out to others, hard to trust anyone.
(630) 934-1105 View (630) 934-1105
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.