Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Brookline, MA

Photo of Michael Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Michael Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Are you or your teen experiencing anxiety? ADHD, or OCD? Maybe you find yourself stuck in patterns of thinking and behavior that get in the way of relationships, education, work, or personal growth. What if you could have deeper insight and compassion into your internal experiences? What if you could also learn new skills to change behaviors that aren't working for you? We can work together to understand and release what is holding you back and create more ease, meaning, creativity, and possibility for the future.
Are you or your teen experiencing anxiety? ADHD, or OCD? Maybe you find yourself stuck in patterns of thinking and behavior that get in the way of relationships, education, work, or personal growth. What if you could have deeper insight and compassion into your internal experiences? What if you could also learn new skills to change behaviors that aren't working for you? We can work together to understand and release what is holding you back and create more ease, meaning, creativity, and possibility for the future.
(617) 362-4009 View (617) 362-4009
Photo of Alison Leary, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Alison Leary
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I have particular expertise in treating anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Selective Mutism and body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs).
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist and I work with children, adolescents and adults. Within the context of a warm, supportive relationship, I focus on teaching skills that help clients to develop a sense of confidence in effectively managing their emotions and behavior. My treatment approach is primarily cognitive behavioral but I tailor the treatment to the needs of each client with an emphasis on finding the most evidence-based approach. I am collaborative and offer a lot of encouragement, humor and warmth.
I have particular expertise in treating anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Selective Mutism and body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs).
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist and I work with children, adolescents and adults. Within the context of a warm, supportive relationship, I focus on teaching skills that help clients to develop a sense of confidence in effectively managing their emotions and behavior. My treatment approach is primarily cognitive behavioral but I tailor the treatment to the needs of each client with an emphasis on finding the most evidence-based approach. I am collaborative and offer a lot of encouragement, humor and warmth.
(617) 600-6029 View (617) 600-6029
Photo of Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
(857) 384-4858 View (857) 384-4858
Photo of Dechen W Mahajan, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Dechen W Mahajan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist working with adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, and life transitions. I use cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and acceptance based approaches to create positive change. Taking a goal-oriented approach, I collaborate with clients to identify and actively work towards their goals, using the skills they learn in therapy. I am experienced in working with a range of issues including social and generalized anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and OCD.
I am a licensed psychologist working with adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, and life transitions. I use cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and acceptance based approaches to create positive change. Taking a goal-oriented approach, I collaborate with clients to identify and actively work towards their goals, using the skills they learn in therapy. I am experienced in working with a range of issues including social and generalized anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and OCD.
(857) 957-7068 View (857) 957-7068
Photo of Jenna Kauffman, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Jenna Kauffman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I am versed in working with anxiety disorders and panic attacks, OCD, depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, phase of life concerns, adjustment issues, stress management, and relationship issues.
With the right clinician, therapy can give you the freedom to be who you are and who you want to be. Therefore my primary focus to treatment is establishing and strengthening an authentic and collaborative relationship, one that offers a non-judgmental and safe space for healing to occur. I utilize evidence-based practices based in training in multiple modalities of psychotherapy, catered to each individual. Taking into account the multidimensionality of the human experience, I offer both theory and practice towards living a meaningful life, doing the work of self-discovery, and healing with greater perspective and awareness.
I am versed in working with anxiety disorders and panic attacks, OCD, depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, phase of life concerns, adjustment issues, stress management, and relationship issues.
With the right clinician, therapy can give you the freedom to be who you are and who you want to be. Therefore my primary focus to treatment is establishing and strengthening an authentic and collaborative relationship, one that offers a non-judgmental and safe space for healing to occur. I utilize evidence-based practices based in training in multiple modalities of psychotherapy, catered to each individual. Taking into account the multidimensionality of the human experience, I offer both theory and practice towards living a meaningful life, doing the work of self-discovery, and healing with greater perspective and awareness.
(857) 355-0884 View (857) 355-0884
Photo of Youngsuk Kim, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Youngsuk Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Independent of my job at MGH/Harvard Medical School as a clinical psychologist, I see clients in my private practice (Psychological Care and Consultancy, PLLC). I provide video telehealth only. I have extensive experience treating adults and 65+ suffering from anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem, stresses associated with relationship and family conflicts, and educational and occupational concerns. I also have experience working with health professionals, high-functioning autism, late teens, and military service members. I am licensed in MA and RI.
Independent of my job at MGH/Harvard Medical School as a clinical psychologist, I see clients in my private practice (Psychological Care and Consultancy, PLLC). I provide video telehealth only. I have extensive experience treating adults and 65+ suffering from anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem, stresses associated with relationship and family conflicts, and educational and occupational concerns. I also have experience working with health professionals, high-functioning autism, late teens, and military service members. I am licensed in MA and RI.
(857) 380-0222 View (857) 380-0222
Photo of Roberta Brucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Roberta Brucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
One important point regarding my practice that may differ from other OCD Treatment in the area is this.
As a Clinician with over two decades of experience working in Psychiatry at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, I have also been in Private Practice as a Therapist specializing in the assessment and treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression and Stress/Loss of Chronic Illness. Because I found there were few if any professionally led groups for OCD Sufferers, I developed an active Group Program for Adults with OCD. My style is warm and direct with a desire to work together to build on your strengths using Cognitive Behavioral Treatment/Exposure & Response Prevention and Psychotherapy. OCD Family Guidance also.
One important point regarding my practice that may differ from other OCD Treatment in the area is this.
As a Clinician with over two decades of experience working in Psychiatry at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, I have also been in Private Practice as a Therapist specializing in the assessment and treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression and Stress/Loss of Chronic Illness. Because I found there were few if any professionally led groups for OCD Sufferers, I developed an active Group Program for Adults with OCD. My style is warm and direct with a desire to work together to build on your strengths using Cognitive Behavioral Treatment/Exposure & Response Prevention and Psychotherapy. OCD Family Guidance also.
(617) 405-8213 View (617) 405-8213
Photo of Katie Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Katie Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. I offer an active and collaborative therapeutic style that allows the opportunity for clients to learn, grow, explore, challenge and live the life they want to be living. With a background working in community mental health, private practice, clinical supervision and consulting in public/private school settings; I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have helped patients with a broad range of needs including Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Depression, behavioral and/or relational difficulties.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. I offer an active and collaborative therapeutic style that allows the opportunity for clients to learn, grow, explore, challenge and live the life they want to be living. With a background working in community mental health, private practice, clinical supervision and consulting in public/private school settings; I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have helped patients with a broad range of needs including Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Depression, behavioral and/or relational difficulties.
(310) 361-0638 View (310) 361-0638
Photo of Ella Laniado, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Ella Laniado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
My focus includes anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, phobias and more.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming and intimidating. I recognize the importance of building a safe and trusting relationship with you to best support you and your needs. My approach is highlighted by my warmth, creativity, and humor, which informs my ability to build rapport and strengthen our therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in inpatient, outpatient and school settings. I believe in utilizing a collaborative approach, drawing from your experiences and insights to support growth and healing.
My focus includes anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, phobias and more.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming and intimidating. I recognize the importance of building a safe and trusting relationship with you to best support you and your needs. My approach is highlighted by my warmth, creativity, and humor, which informs my ability to build rapport and strengthen our therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in inpatient, outpatient and school settings. I believe in utilizing a collaborative approach, drawing from your experiences and insights to support growth and healing.
(332) 239-6295 View (332) 239-6295
Photo of Beth DeFrino Kuo, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Beth DeFrino Kuo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I am a licensed psychologist and enjoy working with college students, parents, and adults. My clients often tell me they appreciate my hopeful and direct approach. I trained at UMASS Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital. I've worked in outpatient clinics, college counseling, pediatric weight clinics at several major hospitals, and at a cancer support center. I treat those struggling with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, stress & relationship issues, weight management, coping with medical conditions, and parents looking to better understand their children.
I am a licensed psychologist and enjoy working with college students, parents, and adults. My clients often tell me they appreciate my hopeful and direct approach. I trained at UMASS Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital. I've worked in outpatient clinics, college counseling, pediatric weight clinics at several major hospitals, and at a cancer support center. I treat those struggling with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, stress & relationship issues, weight management, coping with medical conditions, and parents looking to better understand their children.
(508) 928-9039 View (508) 928-9039
Photo of Samuel Skeen, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Samuel Skeen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
I see individuals with a wide range of ages and presenting concerns, however I specialize in treating anxiety, OCD, and in adolescent psychotherapy.
With any and all presenting concerns, I provide a warm, non-judgmental environment. I have an integrative approach, with a particular focus on motivational enhancement, insight oriented exploration of past experiences, and when appropriate, specific tools and coping strategies. I use a number of research backed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) protocols, which are proven to be effective in treating anxiety and depression. However, I am careful to use these methods in the context of a client centered and welcoming environment which accounts for an individual's particular needs, experiences, and readiness to change.
I see individuals with a wide range of ages and presenting concerns, however I specialize in treating anxiety, OCD, and in adolescent psychotherapy.
With any and all presenting concerns, I provide a warm, non-judgmental environment. I have an integrative approach, with a particular focus on motivational enhancement, insight oriented exploration of past experiences, and when appropriate, specific tools and coping strategies. I use a number of research backed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) protocols, which are proven to be effective in treating anxiety and depression. However, I am careful to use these methods in the context of a client centered and welcoming environment which accounts for an individual's particular needs, experiences, and readiness to change.
(781) 556-6138 View (781) 556-6138
Photo of Cathryn M Freid, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Cathryn M Freid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
(617) 553-9222 View (617) 553-9222
Photo of Elyse Stewart, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Elyse Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Massachusetts specializing in working with individuals with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and related issues. I am committed to the delivery, optimization, and dissemination of evidence-based treatments, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). My approach to treatment itself involves exploring the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and working with my clients to implement strategies that are most useful in addressing those areas.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Massachusetts specializing in working with individuals with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and related issues. I am committed to the delivery, optimization, and dissemination of evidence-based treatments, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). My approach to treatment itself involves exploring the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and working with my clients to implement strategies that are most useful in addressing those areas.
(617) 882-7894 View (617) 882-7894
Photo of David Patrick Klapatch, Counselor in Brookline, MA
David Patrick Klapatch
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
I have worked in the mental health field for 19 years and understand how personal struggles can impact our lives. I have a passion for helping others and enjoy working collaboratively to help people overcome life's may challenges. I work with individuals 16 + and specialize in treating anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Panic Disorder. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I look forward to working with you and am confident that my approach will help you begin the healing process.
I have worked in the mental health field for 19 years and understand how personal struggles can impact our lives. I have a passion for helping others and enjoy working collaboratively to help people overcome life's may challenges. I work with individuals 16 + and specialize in treating anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Panic Disorder. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I look forward to working with you and am confident that my approach will help you begin the healing process.
(401) 566-8269 View (401) 566-8269
Photo of Hannah Kanter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Hannah Kanter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
As a therapist, meditation instructor, yoga teacher, and Reiki practitioner, I help individuals overcome trauma and OCD.
Do upsetting images tend to replay themselves in your head all of the time? Maybe you want to understand why your body feels on-edge or shut down? You want to move on from those bad experiences, but you feel stuck. It would be so nice to feel calm and fully present. Perhaps you have a hard time asking for help. The coping tools you learned in childhood to keep yourself safe and afloat are starting to rust. It’s time for new skills to add to your self-care toolbox.
As a therapist, meditation instructor, yoga teacher, and Reiki practitioner, I help individuals overcome trauma and OCD.
Do upsetting images tend to replay themselves in your head all of the time? Maybe you want to understand why your body feels on-edge or shut down? You want to move on from those bad experiences, but you feel stuck. It would be so nice to feel calm and fully present. Perhaps you have a hard time asking for help. The coping tools you learned in childhood to keep yourself safe and afloat are starting to rust. It’s time for new skills to add to your self-care toolbox.
(734) 206-7487 View (734) 206-7487
Photo of Intensive CBT Program for Anxiety and OCD , Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Intensive CBT Program for Anxiety and OCD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02146
Intensive CBT treatment is a highly specialized form of concentrated and accelerated therapy that directly targets your specific anxiety using concrete tools and strategies. It is a short-term, 2-week program in which you meet 1-on-1 with a team of qualified clinicians. Prior to starting the formal 2- week treatment program, you will complete a 2-hour assessment and 1-hour treatment planning session with your assigned senior clinician to determine your clinical diagnoses, create a personalized treatment plan, and ensure that this format of treatment is a good fit for your needs. This program is designed for older adolescents (16+) and adults with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), panic disorder, agoraphobia, specific phobia, and social anxiety disorder.
Intensive CBT treatment is a highly specialized form of concentrated and accelerated therapy that directly targets your specific anxiety using concrete tools and strategies. It is a short-term, 2-week program in which you meet 1-on-1 with a team of qualified clinicians. Prior to starting the formal 2- week treatment program, you will complete a 2-hour assessment and 1-hour treatment planning session with your assigned senior clinician to determine your clinical diagnoses, create a personalized treatment plan, and ensure that this format of treatment is a good fit for your needs. This program is designed for older adolescents (16+) and adults with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), panic disorder, agoraphobia, specific phobia, and social anxiety disorder.
(617) 841-3288 View (617) 841-3288
Photo of Amasa Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Amasa Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
I am a trained OCD specialist and an active member of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF).
Navigating OCD, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions can be emotionally and physically draining. There is little more frustrating than thinking and behaving in the same ways despite knowing they contribute to these issues and other debilitating symptoms. Therapy is a place to safely explore the thoughts, behaviors, and relationships that are interfering with living a more fulfilling and rewarding life. (more info on www.smithlicsw.com)
I am a trained OCD specialist and an active member of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF).
Navigating OCD, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions can be emotionally and physically draining. There is little more frustrating than thinking and behaving in the same ways despite knowing they contribute to these issues and other debilitating symptoms. Therapy is a place to safely explore the thoughts, behaviors, and relationships that are interfering with living a more fulfilling and rewarding life. (more info on www.smithlicsw.com)
(617) 807-0077 View (617) 807-0077
Photo of Shannon Hourigan, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Shannon Hourigan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Boston Children's Hospital and an instructor at Harvard Medical School with a small private practice for children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in children and adolescents coping with anxiety, acute, chronic medical conditions, and with parents seeking to improve family harmony. I am trained in a variety of evidence-based approaches and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, and adjustment concerns. Culturally responsive care is my priority, and I welcome patients from all backgrounds.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Boston Children's Hospital and an instructor at Harvard Medical School with a small private practice for children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in children and adolescents coping with anxiety, acute, chronic medical conditions, and with parents seeking to improve family harmony. I am trained in a variety of evidence-based approaches and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, and adjustment concerns. Culturally responsive care is my priority, and I welcome patients from all backgrounds.
(857) 666-8244 View (857) 666-8244
Photo of Margaret J Connolly, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Margaret J Connolly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, as well as eating disorders.
As a therapist, I provide individual, couples and family therapy to adolescents and adults. I work in a collaborative, non-judgmental manner that aims to promote positive change within a person's life. After a comprehensive assessment, I utilize a variety of approaches including psychodynamic (focused on developing insight) and cognitive behavioral (focused on understanding the thoughts and behaviors that shape experience) based on individual need. Through therapy that respects the complexities of each individual's life, I strive for my clients to develop a deep understanding of themselves that will enable long lasting growth.
I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, as well as eating disorders.
As a therapist, I provide individual, couples and family therapy to adolescents and adults. I work in a collaborative, non-judgmental manner that aims to promote positive change within a person's life. After a comprehensive assessment, I utilize a variety of approaches including psychodynamic (focused on developing insight) and cognitive behavioral (focused on understanding the thoughts and behaviors that shape experience) based on individual need. Through therapy that respects the complexities of each individual's life, I strive for my clients to develop a deep understanding of themselves that will enable long lasting growth.
(617) 934-6794 View (617) 934-6794
Photo of Michelle (Shelley) Schlief, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Michelle (Shelley) Schlief
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Waitlist for new clients
I comfortably treat adults, young adults, millenials, college students, and adolescents with trauma, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, and self-esteem issues.
Welcome! Meaningful change and lasting healing happen through the co-creation of safe therapeutic spaces. Together, we can develop your capacity not only to feel better, but to be healthier. Understanding yourself is a powerful source of transformation and development. However, insight alone is not always enough to create psychological healing. I work with people to generate deep insight but also to create a new way of being and feeling in the world. For these purposes, I often incorporate both experiential and mind/brain/body therapies.
I comfortably treat adults, young adults, millenials, college students, and adolescents with trauma, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, and self-esteem issues.
Welcome! Meaningful change and lasting healing happen through the co-creation of safe therapeutic spaces. Together, we can develop your capacity not only to feel better, but to be healthier. Understanding yourself is a powerful source of transformation and development. However, insight alone is not always enough to create psychological healing. I work with people to generate deep insight but also to create a new way of being and feeling in the world. For these purposes, I often incorporate both experiential and mind/brain/body therapies.
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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.