Photo of Megan Harden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentucky
Megan Harden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEO
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders, and Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), such as hair pulling and skin picking. OCD does not always look like handwashing and concerns about germs - sometimes it's intrusive thoughts with the desire for reassurance. OCD frequently fixates on what’s important in a person’s life and common sub-types include worries about health issues, sexuality, fear of pedophilia, harming self/others, contamination, concerns about religion/ morality, or obsessions about relationships. If this sounds like you it is important to know that therapy can help you get your life back!
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders, and Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), such as hair pulling and skin picking. OCD does not always look like handwashing and concerns about germs - sometimes it's intrusive thoughts with the desire for reassurance. OCD frequently fixates on what’s important in a person’s life and common sub-types include worries about health issues, sexuality, fear of pedophilia, harming self/others, contamination, concerns about religion/ morality, or obsessions about relationships. If this sounds like you it is important to know that therapy can help you get your life back!
(270) 854-0297 View (270) 854-0297
Photo of Rebecca Crinean Pickens, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kentucky
Rebecca Crinean Pickens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40502
Rebecca specializes and is passionate about working with clients seeking services for OCD and Asperger's / Autism.
Life-changing healing is possible. Rebecca has experienced it firsthand in her own life and the lives of her clients! Suffering is a universal experience, but we do not have to remain captives of our past or fear our future. Clients who work with Rebecca see change, often experiencing decreased symptoms after the first session. She provides clients space to process the curve balls life has thrown, and gives them tools to help make practical changes outside sessions to meet their goals.
Rebecca specializes and is passionate about working with clients seeking services for OCD and Asperger's / Autism.
Life-changing healing is possible. Rebecca has experienced it firsthand in her own life and the lives of her clients! Suffering is a universal experience, but we do not have to remain captives of our past or fear our future. Clients who work with Rebecca see change, often experiencing decreased symptoms after the first session. She provides clients space to process the curve balls life has thrown, and gives them tools to help make practical changes outside sessions to meet their goals.
(859) 295-5640 View (859) 295-5640
Photo of Broderick Sawyer, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Kentucky
Broderick Sawyer
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40243
Hello, I’m Dr. Broderick Sawyer! I treat adults and adolescents for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, identity issues, and stress related to oppression. Overall, my approach is to help you quickly and effectively: 1) Overcome everyday stress, 2) Develop emotional intelligence, 3) Understand how your past is holding you back, 4) Develop confidence and a positive self-image to move forward in life, and 5) Create and maintain healthy relationships. Having a diverse training background, my approach blends Mindfulness, CBT, Psychodynamic, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment, and Compassion-based approaches.
Hello, I’m Dr. Broderick Sawyer! I treat adults and adolescents for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, identity issues, and stress related to oppression. Overall, my approach is to help you quickly and effectively: 1) Overcome everyday stress, 2) Develop emotional intelligence, 3) Understand how your past is holding you back, 4) Develop confidence and a positive self-image to move forward in life, and 5) Create and maintain healthy relationships. Having a diverse training background, my approach blends Mindfulness, CBT, Psychodynamic, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment, and Compassion-based approaches.
(502) 273-5136 View (502) 273-5136
Photo of Emerge Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Kentucky
Emerge Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
I work exceptionally well with individuals who suffer from OCD, anxiety, panic, and intrusive thoughts.
Do you feel like you've lost your sense of you? Anxiety can often keep us from enjoying or even participating in our lives. Do you feel like you are existing but not living? Is avoidance your best friend? Maybe intrusive thoughts are increasing the anxiety. Maybe, a disturbing thought crosses your mind and you think, "Why would I have a thought like that? This is not who I am." Maybe you can't sleep, you're exhausted, and you miss yourself... the real you. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself; nurture the relationship, grow, and evolve.
I work exceptionally well with individuals who suffer from OCD, anxiety, panic, and intrusive thoughts.
Do you feel like you've lost your sense of you? Anxiety can often keep us from enjoying or even participating in our lives. Do you feel like you are existing but not living? Is avoidance your best friend? Maybe intrusive thoughts are increasing the anxiety. Maybe, a disturbing thought crosses your mind and you think, "Why would I have a thought like that? This is not who I am." Maybe you can't sleep, you're exhausted, and you miss yourself... the real you. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself; nurture the relationship, grow, and evolve.
(859) 340-8446 View (859) 340-8446
Photo of Nicholas Antonio Inclan, Counselor in Kentucky
Nicholas Antonio Inclan
Counselor, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
I utilize exposure and ritual prevention (ERP) in the treatment for OCD.
Helping people is my passion. I believe that individuals suffering from an anxiety related disorder are trapped by their symptoms and, through psychotherapeutic treatment, can find their potential, learning how to live a life of value and purpose.
I utilize exposure and ritual prevention (ERP) in the treatment for OCD.
Helping people is my passion. I believe that individuals suffering from an anxiety related disorder are trapped by their symptoms and, through psychotherapeutic treatment, can find their potential, learning how to live a life of value and purpose.
(502) 236-5313 View (502) 236-5313
Photo of Linda Combes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentucky
Linda Combes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
As a seasoned therapist, I provide evidence-based treatment for several concerns, including anxiety, OCD, depression and PTSD.
Do you feel overwhelmed by intense emotions, painful thoughts, or unsatisfying relationships? Do you find yourself stuck in patterns that prevent you from living the life you want? I offer therapy for difficulties including anxiety, OCD, depression and PTSD. We can meet in my Lexington office, on Zoom, or in the peaceful setting of a private horse farm near Paris, where equine- and canine-assisted sessions are options.
As a seasoned therapist, I provide evidence-based treatment for several concerns, including anxiety, OCD, depression and PTSD.
Do you feel overwhelmed by intense emotions, painful thoughts, or unsatisfying relationships? Do you find yourself stuck in patterns that prevent you from living the life you want? I offer therapy for difficulties including anxiety, OCD, depression and PTSD. We can meet in my Lexington office, on Zoom, or in the peaceful setting of a private horse farm near Paris, where equine- and canine-assisted sessions are options.
(859) 203-1279 View (859) 203-1279
Photo of Alex Kelly, Psychologist in Kentucky
Alex Kelly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I specialize in evidence-based therapies for adults with a variety of presenting concerns, most notably Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment concerns, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders.
Available to see new clients in 2024! Are you looking to make a change in your life? Change can be scary but I am eager to join you on your journey towards introspection, knowledge, and healing. Are you unsure about where to start? As a therapist, I value collaboration and together we can work on improving coping skills, alleviating pain, building confidence, making important decisions, practicing self-care or adjusting to life changes. Together we can set your goals in motion!
I specialize in evidence-based therapies for adults with a variety of presenting concerns, most notably Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment concerns, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders.
Available to see new clients in 2024! Are you looking to make a change in your life? Change can be scary but I am eager to join you on your journey towards introspection, knowledge, and healing. Are you unsure about where to start? As a therapist, I value collaboration and together we can work on improving coping skills, alleviating pain, building confidence, making important decisions, practicing self-care or adjusting to life changes. Together we can set your goals in motion!
(859) 549-7717 View (859) 549-7717
Photo of Ghazel Tellawi, Psychologist in Kentucky
Ghazel Tellawi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40205
I work with individuals who come to therapy for a variety of reasons, including OCD, depression, anxiety, phobias, life transitions, and stress. I also provide gender affirming care for individuals 12 and older who are at various stages in their gender journey. I am affirming of poly relationship structures, and have significant experience and training in navigating gender identity exploration/transition, as well as sexual and racial identity development. I write letters of support for gender affirming surgery, and can typically get folks in within a week. I also provide ADHD testing and diagnostic assessments for folks 12 and up.
I work with individuals who come to therapy for a variety of reasons, including OCD, depression, anxiety, phobias, life transitions, and stress. I also provide gender affirming care for individuals 12 and older who are at various stages in their gender journey. I am affirming of poly relationship structures, and have significant experience and training in navigating gender identity exploration/transition, as well as sexual and racial identity development. I write letters of support for gender affirming surgery, and can typically get folks in within a week. I also provide ADHD testing and diagnostic assessments for folks 12 and up.
(502) 673-1744 View (502) 673-1744
Photo of Pamela Blackburn-Noble, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentucky
Pamela Blackburn-Noble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danville, KY 40422
Focus areas of OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, Grief, Parenting issues and Couples Therapy.
I select clinical approaches designed to provide you with brief, solution-focused therapy. From the first session, my goal is to individualize treatment to meet your specific needs and provide you with a safe and validating environment to process life stressors. My mission is to help you reach your personal goals. Whether you want to enhance your health and wellness, improve your relationships, obtain relief from problematic symptoms or resolve life challenges. We will work towards these goals together In a thorough manner that maximizes your resources and time.
Focus areas of OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, Grief, Parenting issues and Couples Therapy.
I select clinical approaches designed to provide you with brief, solution-focused therapy. From the first session, my goal is to individualize treatment to meet your specific needs and provide you with a safe and validating environment to process life stressors. My mission is to help you reach your personal goals. Whether you want to enhance your health and wellness, improve your relationships, obtain relief from problematic symptoms or resolve life challenges. We will work towards these goals together In a thorough manner that maximizes your resources and time.
(859) 449-4435 View (859) 449-4435
Photo of Anna Marie Ortiz, Psychologist in Kentucky
Anna Marie Ortiz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40243  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm Dr. Anna Marie Ortiz. I'm a licensed psychologist. My training has been centered around treating eating disorders and I specialize in eating disorders across the lifespan. I am also trained in treating OCD, trauma, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.
Hi there! I'm Dr. Anna Marie Ortiz. I'm a licensed psychologist. My training has been centered around treating eating disorders and I specialize in eating disorders across the lifespan. I am also trained in treating OCD, trauma, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.
(502) 383-5671 View (502) 383-5671
Photo of Dr. Rae Lyn Glover, Psychologist in Kentucky
Dr. Rae Lyn Glover
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40508  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of stress related difficulties including major life transitions, work/life balance, PTSD, Anxiety, OCD, as well as ADHD and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you're here. I understand that while you may be suffering, you are also surviving in the best way that you know how. You have an untapped reservoir of strength and wisdom inside you. By honoring your inherent capacity for healing and growth, I will help guide you on your journey to reach your fullest potential.
I specialize in the treatment of stress related difficulties including major life transitions, work/life balance, PTSD, Anxiety, OCD, as well as ADHD and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you're here. I understand that while you may be suffering, you are also surviving in the best way that you know how. You have an untapped reservoir of strength and wisdom inside you. By honoring your inherent capacity for healing and growth, I will help guide you on your journey to reach your fullest potential.
(859) 350-7191 View (859) 350-7191
Photo of Elle Skelton, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kentucky
Elle Skelton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LPCMHSP, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40201  (Online Only)
I have been working in mental health for 5 years and have over 5,800 hours of supervised and specialized experience with OCD, anxiety, and ED.
There are so many things outside of our control that are inevitably difficult to cope with. Even with the unforeseen situations and stressors that life throws our way, the one thing we do have control over is the way we respond to them. However, it is difficult to know how to respond when we are experiencing fear, anxiety, and other heightened emotions. I want to help people strengthen their coping capabilities in an environment that is open, non-judgmental, and collaborative. My goal is to provide support to individuals, couples, and families tackling every day and life stressors with more confidence, hope, self-empowerment.
I have been working in mental health for 5 years and have over 5,800 hours of supervised and specialized experience with OCD, anxiety, and ED.
There are so many things outside of our control that are inevitably difficult to cope with. Even with the unforeseen situations and stressors that life throws our way, the one thing we do have control over is the way we respond to them. However, it is difficult to know how to respond when we are experiencing fear, anxiety, and other heightened emotions. I want to help people strengthen their coping capabilities in an environment that is open, non-judgmental, and collaborative. My goal is to provide support to individuals, couples, and families tackling every day and life stressors with more confidence, hope, self-empowerment.
(872) 204-1472 View (872) 204-1472
Photo of Trinity Health Group, LLC, Counselor in Kentucky
Trinity Health Group, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, KY 40336
I have worked with children and adults aged 5 and up with various disorders including substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, ODD, Bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. Have been in the role of Estill County Specialty Court Counselor as an advocate for individuals in Drug Court and recovery. I enjoy working with and welcoming all individuals. “Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health.” - Lauren Fogel Mersy, n.d. My goal is to help you build your good mental health by utilizing evidence-based therapy.
I have worked with children and adults aged 5 and up with various disorders including substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, ODD, Bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. Have been in the role of Estill County Specialty Court Counselor as an advocate for individuals in Drug Court and recovery. I enjoy working with and welcoming all individuals. “Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health.” - Lauren Fogel Mersy, n.d. My goal is to help you build your good mental health by utilizing evidence-based therapy.
(606) 603-3349 View (606) 603-3349
Photo of Federico (Felito) Aldarondo, Psychologist in Kentucky
Federico (Felito) Aldarondo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40504
Anxiety, depression, OCD, panic, substance use/addictions, past trauma, identity concerns and relationship issues are areas in which I have considerable experience.
It takes courage to face life's problems and strength to reach out for help. Thanks for reading my profile as you consider your options. I strive to provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere in therapy. I am approachable and flexible, and believe I provide a good balance of support and challenge. Therapy with me can address struggles or can be growth oriented. My experience working in mental health spans over 25 years in a variety of settings and with many psychological and emotional concerns. Email or call to set up a free brief phone consultation to see if my experience, clinical approach and style match your needs.
Anxiety, depression, OCD, panic, substance use/addictions, past trauma, identity concerns and relationship issues are areas in which I have considerable experience.
It takes courage to face life's problems and strength to reach out for help. Thanks for reading my profile as you consider your options. I strive to provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere in therapy. I am approachable and flexible, and believe I provide a good balance of support and challenge. Therapy with me can address struggles or can be growth oriented. My experience working in mental health spans over 25 years in a variety of settings and with many psychological and emotional concerns. Email or call to set up a free brief phone consultation to see if my experience, clinical approach and style match your needs.
(859) 904-1106 View (859) 904-1106
Photo of Erin E Bowling, Counselor in Kentucky
Erin E Bowling
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
I treat individuals across the lifespan struggling with various challenges including ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, PTSD, and Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMD).
Hi, I’m Erin. I help people navigate change. Maybe you feel overwhelmed, alone, or “stuck.” Together we can work through intense feelings and events that cause immense pain or stress. We will meet your goals in a safe, nonjudgmental space. I have a passion for working with adults and children, parents and families navigating this journey to move forward. I use different evidence-based modalities such as EMDR. I am also a trained postpartum support practitioner and Positive Discipline educator. We will learn what works for you to create a space for healing and growth.
I treat individuals across the lifespan struggling with various challenges including ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, PTSD, and Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMD).
Hi, I’m Erin. I help people navigate change. Maybe you feel overwhelmed, alone, or “stuck.” Together we can work through intense feelings and events that cause immense pain or stress. We will meet your goals in a safe, nonjudgmental space. I have a passion for working with adults and children, parents and families navigating this journey to move forward. I use different evidence-based modalities such as EMDR. I am also a trained postpartum support practitioner and Positive Discipline educator. We will learn what works for you to create a space for healing and growth.
(502) 233-4456 View (502) 233-4456
Photo of Ellie L Miller, Psychologist in Kentucky
Ellie L Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Are you experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, or physical symptoms of anxiety? Do you find it difficult to leave your house or go certain places for fear of experiencing a panic attack? Do you experience intrusive thoughts or fears of contamination and perform some sort of ritual or compulsion to feel relief? Are you a young adult struggling with a variety of worries that are impacting your ability to function? Have you been diagnosed with OCD, Panic, Agoraphobia, or Generalized Anxiety Disorder? If so, I am able to assist you. Please visit KYCARDS.com for more information.
Are you experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, or physical symptoms of anxiety? Do you find it difficult to leave your house or go certain places for fear of experiencing a panic attack? Do you experience intrusive thoughts or fears of contamination and perform some sort of ritual or compulsion to feel relief? Are you a young adult struggling with a variety of worries that are impacting your ability to function? Have you been diagnosed with OCD, Panic, Agoraphobia, or Generalized Anxiety Disorder? If so, I am able to assist you. Please visit KYCARDS.com for more information.
(502) 586-6646 View (502) 586-6646
Photo of Chad Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentucky
Chad Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Owensboro, KY 42303  (Online Only)
Areas of emphasis with clients include PTSD, anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, paranoia, schizophrenia, and Bipolar disorder.
I fully believe that we all have the ability to be better, in many ways. We can learn to adjust , adapt, change, and be in control. We can learn to control our emotions, behaviors, actions, and thoughts. Awareness and mindfulness is attainable, we can learn this, and thus control the outcomes of our lives. We can't control the world around us, but we can control ourselves, and therefore, dictate how we live our lives, happy, and fulfilled. I earned a Bachelor and Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky from years 1996-2001. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Kentucky.
Areas of emphasis with clients include PTSD, anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, paranoia, schizophrenia, and Bipolar disorder.
I fully believe that we all have the ability to be better, in many ways. We can learn to adjust , adapt, change, and be in control. We can learn to control our emotions, behaviors, actions, and thoughts. Awareness and mindfulness is attainable, we can learn this, and thus control the outcomes of our lives. We can't control the world around us, but we can control ourselves, and therefore, dictate how we live our lives, happy, and fulfilled. I earned a Bachelor and Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky from years 1996-2001. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Kentucky.
(270) 216-5305 View (270) 216-5305
Photo of Kelly McGraw Browning, Psychologist in Kentucky
Kelly McGraw Browning
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40241
I have worked extensively with pediatric anxiety disorders including: social anxiety, OCD, generalized anxiety, selective mutism and phobias.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Louisville, KY specializing in children, adolescents and families. In 2006, I founded Pediatric Psychological Associates, a private practice dedicated to helping children from their earliest years through their challenging teens. Prior to private practice, I served as a pediatric psychologist and assistant professor of pediatrics at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. I work with children and teens with a variety of emotional, behavioral, developmental and social problems. I have specific expertise in the area of pediatric anxiety and pediatric health psychology.
I have worked extensively with pediatric anxiety disorders including: social anxiety, OCD, generalized anxiety, selective mutism and phobias.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Louisville, KY specializing in children, adolescents and families. In 2006, I founded Pediatric Psychological Associates, a private practice dedicated to helping children from their earliest years through their challenging teens. Prior to private practice, I served as a pediatric psychologist and assistant professor of pediatrics at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. I work with children and teens with a variety of emotional, behavioral, developmental and social problems. I have specific expertise in the area of pediatric anxiety and pediatric health psychology.
(502) 324-3971 View (502) 324-3971
Photo of Alisha Blais, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentucky
Alisha Blais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Elizabethtown, KY 42701  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults suffering from Borderline personality disorder, OCD, depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, and eating disorders. I have experience in working with many of life's problems such as grief and loss, conflict resolution, and anger management. I work with each client to understand his or her symptoms and the problems that impact their mood, and then create a holistic approach to develop a unique treatment plan that is tailored to address the individual's needs. You are not alone, and change is possible!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults suffering from Borderline personality disorder, OCD, depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, and eating disorders. I have experience in working with many of life's problems such as grief and loss, conflict resolution, and anger management. I work with each client to understand his or her symptoms and the problems that impact their mood, and then create a holistic approach to develop a unique treatment plan that is tailored to address the individual's needs. You are not alone, and change is possible!
(270) 747-3417 View (270) 747-3417
Photo of Katrina Cowen, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky
Katrina Cowen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
Waitlist for new clients
This approach yields good outcomes for issues of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship conflict, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and sexual abuse.
I am trained and experienced in EMDR for the reprocessing of painful memories and traumatic events. Disillusionment and suffering are inevitable parts of every life. Wounding from the past has a way of rearing its head when you least expect it, creating anxiety, depression, relational difficulties and much more. God has always been in the business of redeeming broken things, and that means restoration is possible for you! I understand that asking for help feels risky, and I applaud your courage in getting this far - I want to provide a safe space for you to explore your story and its impact on your life.
This approach yields good outcomes for issues of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship conflict, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and sexual abuse.
I am trained and experienced in EMDR for the reprocessing of painful memories and traumatic events. Disillusionment and suffering are inevitable parts of every life. Wounding from the past has a way of rearing its head when you least expect it, creating anxiety, depression, relational difficulties and much more. God has always been in the business of redeeming broken things, and that means restoration is possible for you! I understand that asking for help feels risky, and I applaud your courage in getting this far - I want to provide a safe space for you to explore your story and its impact on your life.
(859) 251-2493 View (859) 251-2493
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.