Photo of Duane A Lundervold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Duane A Lundervold
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, BCBA-D, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Liberty, MO 64068
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach, i.e., interventions that have shown to be effective through scientific research. Through supportive, caring interpersonal communication and collaboration I aid patients to live a values-guided life. Having taught, trained, supervised, and provided CBT services for over 35 years, I have worked with individuals across the lifespan who faced challenges of anxiety, depression, pain, OCD, chronic pain, and neurological disorders. I have also received 40 hours of advanced training in OCD. My services include assessment of ADHD, personality, bipolar disorder.
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach, i.e., interventions that have shown to be effective through scientific research. Through supportive, caring interpersonal communication and collaboration I aid patients to live a values-guided life. Having taught, trained, supervised, and provided CBT services for over 35 years, I have worked with individuals across the lifespan who faced challenges of anxiety, depression, pain, OCD, chronic pain, and neurological disorders. I have also received 40 hours of advanced training in OCD. My services include assessment of ADHD, personality, bipolar disorder.
(816) 227-6703 View (816) 227-6703
Photo of Brian Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Brian Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64138  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people with anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Phobia, Agoraphobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Specific Phobias) as well as depression, and have clients who have been successful with each of them.
I have had the pleasure of working as a therapist since 2001 and have been helpful to people struggling with a variety of difficulties. My clients generally describe me as kind, gentle, calm, and humorous. I practice primarily from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, but also incorporate other models to augment cognitive therapy.
I enjoy working with people with anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Phobia, Agoraphobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Specific Phobias) as well as depression, and have clients who have been successful with each of them.
I have had the pleasure of working as a therapist since 2001 and have been helpful to people struggling with a variety of difficulties. My clients generally describe me as kind, gentle, calm, and humorous. I practice primarily from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, but also incorporate other models to augment cognitive therapy.
(785) 543-0671 View (785) 543-0671
Photo of Ryan Wilderman, Counselor in Missouri
Ryan Wilderman
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63134  (Online Only)
People who choose to work with me often struggle with various anxieties, fears and incredibly high standards. These issues can often manifest as OCD, anxiety, depressiveness and perfectionism. Many times, these difficulties spread into other areas of life and can impact school, work, family and even just engaging in activities that were once enjoyable. I help people and support systems navigate and learn strategies to manage these issues in order to better function and to be happier overall.
People who choose to work with me often struggle with various anxieties, fears and incredibly high standards. These issues can often manifest as OCD, anxiety, depressiveness and perfectionism. Many times, these difficulties spread into other areas of life and can impact school, work, family and even just engaging in activities that were once enjoyable. I help people and support systems navigate and learn strategies to manage these issues in order to better function and to be happier overall.
(314) 208-3477 View (314) 208-3477
Photo of Whig Mullins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Whig Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSN, RN, BS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
I utilize mindfulness, social signaling, emotion regulation, self enquiry, and distress tolerance skills to effect deep meaningful change in people suffering anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts and actions, and folks feeling with overwhelmed.
Effective management of emotions can be challenging. Together we can open doors to create a better more enjoyable life. People often come to our practice seeking relief from life's challenges and leave with both a new perspective and living happier than ever. I specialize in RO-DBT, Radically Open - Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and work with a variety of clients using DBT, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness skills, life optimization and a variety of other techniques and skills.
I utilize mindfulness, social signaling, emotion regulation, self enquiry, and distress tolerance skills to effect deep meaningful change in people suffering anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts and actions, and folks feeling with overwhelmed.
Effective management of emotions can be challenging. Together we can open doors to create a better more enjoyable life. People often come to our practice seeking relief from life's challenges and leave with both a new perspective and living happier than ever. I specialize in RO-DBT, Radically Open - Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and work with a variety of clients using DBT, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness skills, life optimization and a variety of other techniques and skills.
(314) 888-5379 View (314) 888-5379
Photo of Pearson Psychological and Evaluation Services, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Missouri
Pearson Psychological and Evaluation Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, LPC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Girardeau, MO 63703  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Adam Pearson. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and was trained by a Psychiatrist for two years. I use a variety of techniques and tools. Therapy is typically 8-16 weeks; around eight weeks, your symptoms should go from Severe to Moderate, and 16-18 weeks, moderate to mild. I practice from a faith-based perspective, but all are welcome. You can text, call, or email; I typically see a new patient within 48-72 hours. I had PTSD, Depression, and OCD and am now free. Now it's your turn! This is where you learn to love and like yourself, maybe for the first time. I have helped 1000s. This is your flying lesson!
Hi, I'm Adam Pearson. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and was trained by a Psychiatrist for two years. I use a variety of techniques and tools. Therapy is typically 8-16 weeks; around eight weeks, your symptoms should go from Severe to Moderate, and 16-18 weeks, moderate to mild. I practice from a faith-based perspective, but all are welcome. You can text, call, or email; I typically see a new patient within 48-72 hours. I had PTSD, Depression, and OCD and am now free. Now it's your turn! This is where you learn to love and like yourself, maybe for the first time. I have helped 1000s. This is your flying lesson!
(618) 226-5087 View (618) 226-5087
Photo of Marcio Guzman, Counselor in Missouri
Marcio Guzman
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63103
Hi, there. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders and couple's therapy. I have extensive training and experience in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention). I also have extensive training and experience in IFS (Internal Family Systems). I will tailor my approach to your specific needs. During our work together, you can expect me to be attentive, gentle, compassionate, and attuned. Contact me anytime. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi, there. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders and couple's therapy. I have extensive training and experience in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention). I also have extensive training and experience in IFS (Internal Family Systems). I will tailor my approach to your specific needs. During our work together, you can expect me to be attentive, gentle, compassionate, and attuned. Contact me anytime. I look forward to meeting you!
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Photo of Armando De La Garza, Counselor in Missouri
Armando De La Garza
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65897  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of OCD and anxiety.
Thank you for stopping by. If you are struggling with obsessive doubts that have you feeling anxious maybe even disturbed, please continue reading. Having worked as a professional counselor for 20 years, I have learned the key component of effective therapy is the alliance between the client and therapist. This partnership is based on trust, empathy, and compassion, which is needed to do the deeper work of addressing mental wellness concerns.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD and anxiety.
Thank you for stopping by. If you are struggling with obsessive doubts that have you feeling anxious maybe even disturbed, please continue reading. Having worked as a professional counselor for 20 years, I have learned the key component of effective therapy is the alliance between the client and therapist. This partnership is based on trust, empathy, and compassion, which is needed to do the deeper work of addressing mental wellness concerns.
(505) 421-5415 View (505) 421-5415
Photo of Tyler Z. Tooley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Tyler Z. Tooley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, C-APT
Verified Verified
Weldon Spring, MO 63304
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I specialize in working with individuals (of all ages) who are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, gifted, etc.) and I often work with children and teens who are in foster care or are adopted. I offer individual and family/couple sessions, play therapy, and I often integrate technology, including video and computer games, iPads, and virtual reality (VR), into sessions. To learn more about Gaming Therapy, visit my website!
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I specialize in working with individuals (of all ages) who are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, gifted, etc.) and I often work with children and teens who are in foster care or are adopted. I offer individual and family/couple sessions, play therapy, and I often integrate technology, including video and computer games, iPads, and virtual reality (VR), into sessions. To learn more about Gaming Therapy, visit my website!
(636) 500-1966 View (636) 500-1966
Photo of Cullan May, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Cullan May
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
I'm passionate about treating OCD, BDD, and anxiety because getting to the core of what we really value - and thus breaking free from anxiety's chains - is entirely achievable.
Sometimes when we struggle with something anxiety-related, it can be difficult to distinguish ourselves from our issues, so accustomed are we to the presence of distressing, time-consuming thoughts and feelings. We may even question whether there's value in committing to a separation from them. But who are we - and who can we become - when these unwelcome thoughts and feelings become less sticky? Obsessive-compulsive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, and anxiety in all its forms limit our potential, detracting from what we really value. We sense we need to make a change in order to enjoy our future.
I'm passionate about treating OCD, BDD, and anxiety because getting to the core of what we really value - and thus breaking free from anxiety's chains - is entirely achievable.
Sometimes when we struggle with something anxiety-related, it can be difficult to distinguish ourselves from our issues, so accustomed are we to the presence of distressing, time-consuming thoughts and feelings. We may even question whether there's value in committing to a separation from them. But who are we - and who can we become - when these unwelcome thoughts and feelings become less sticky? Obsessive-compulsive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, and anxiety in all its forms limit our potential, detracting from what we really value. We sense we need to make a change in order to enjoy our future.
(314) 710-2707 View (314) 710-2707
Photo of Daniel Downey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Daniel Downey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Hello, I’m Daniel Downey, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist based in St. Louis, Missouri. I provide mental health services to individuals across the state. My practice has two main areas of focus. The first is working with individuals experiencing anxiety and related disorders such as OCD, phobias, panic disorder, and depression. I My second area of focus is working with young adults experiencing difficulties with major life transitions, including those related to gender identity and sexuality. I incorporate cognitive theory, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches.
Hello, I’m Daniel Downey, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist based in St. Louis, Missouri. I provide mental health services to individuals across the state. My practice has two main areas of focus. The first is working with individuals experiencing anxiety and related disorders such as OCD, phobias, panic disorder, and depression. I My second area of focus is working with young adults experiencing difficulties with major life transitions, including those related to gender identity and sexuality. I incorporate cognitive theory, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches.
(636) 535-1906 View (636) 535-1906
Photo of Jeffrey E Holt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jeffrey E Holt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Jeff has been providing therapy for boys and men since 1999. He is licensed in Missouri, Kansas, and Alaska and specializes in men’s issues, working with males age 12 and up including teenagers, young adults, active duty military and veterans. His approach is person-centered and combines CBT, EMDR, ERP, Mindfulness, and other techniques designed to enhance empowerment and a sense of self-worth. His areas of treatment expertise include PTSD, post-combat trauma, OCD, depression, anger and anxiety.
Jeff has been providing therapy for boys and men since 1999. He is licensed in Missouri, Kansas, and Alaska and specializes in men’s issues, working with males age 12 and up including teenagers, young adults, active duty military and veterans. His approach is person-centered and combines CBT, EMDR, ERP, Mindfulness, and other techniques designed to enhance empowerment and a sense of self-worth. His areas of treatment expertise include PTSD, post-combat trauma, OCD, depression, anger and anxiety.
(816) 521-6948 View (816) 521-6948
Photo of Don Schroeder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Don Schroeder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, MO 65583
Effective Treatment for your Substance Use Disorder, OCD, Marital Issues, ADHD, Trichotillomania, Skin Picking, Stress, Anxiety and Depression! Make the Choice to get the help you need!.
Now Accepting Military Insurance, Home State Health Medicaid & MO Health Net Medicaid! I am now seeing clients In-person at the Find True North Therapy Office located in Waynesville, Missouri. Children, Adolescents, Adults and Couples! Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Trichotillomania, Skin Picking, OCD, Panic Attacks, ADHD & Addiction Issues (Assessments and Full Treatment).
Effective Treatment for your Substance Use Disorder, OCD, Marital Issues, ADHD, Trichotillomania, Skin Picking, Stress, Anxiety and Depression! Make the Choice to get the help you need!.
Now Accepting Military Insurance, Home State Health Medicaid & MO Health Net Medicaid! I am now seeing clients In-person at the Find True North Therapy Office located in Waynesville, Missouri. Children, Adolescents, Adults and Couples! Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Trichotillomania, Skin Picking, OCD, Panic Attacks, ADHD & Addiction Issues (Assessments and Full Treatment).
(573) 492-3054 View (573) 492-3054
Photo of Shawn G FitzWilliam, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Shawn G FitzWilliam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
Waitlist for new clients
I am proud to work with fellow healthcare professionals, individuals from different cultural backgrounds, individuals in the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone who is new to therapy or has tried therapy before but without success. My ideal client is any adult who currently struggles with anxiety, depression, PTSD or other trauma, OCD, burnout, or relationship concerns who is ready to commit to treatment. I believe in meeting clients where they are. I view my job as being your guide to better manage symptoms that represent barriers to you moving forward in your life, following a path determined by your personal values.
I am proud to work with fellow healthcare professionals, individuals from different cultural backgrounds, individuals in the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone who is new to therapy or has tried therapy before but without success. My ideal client is any adult who currently struggles with anxiety, depression, PTSD or other trauma, OCD, burnout, or relationship concerns who is ready to commit to treatment. I believe in meeting clients where they are. I view my job as being your guide to better manage symptoms that represent barriers to you moving forward in your life, following a path determined by your personal values.
(314) 648-8485 View (314) 648-8485
Photo of Kevin Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Kevin Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAC, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
O Fallon, MO 63366
In the diverse landscape of therapeutic support, my practice stands out for its commitment to fostering growth and healing across life's spectrum. I am dedicated to helping both individuals and couples as they face a range of challenges, ensuring that each aspect of my work—from navigating relationship dynamics to addressing personal issues like OCD, anxiety, and boundary-setting—is approached with equal focus and expertise. I also love to work with people struggling with Spiritual Abuse and journeys of doubt within their faith.
In the diverse landscape of therapeutic support, my practice stands out for its commitment to fostering growth and healing across life's spectrum. I am dedicated to helping both individuals and couples as they face a range of challenges, ensuring that each aspect of my work—from navigating relationship dynamics to addressing personal issues like OCD, anxiety, and boundary-setting—is approached with equal focus and expertise. I also love to work with people struggling with Spiritual Abuse and journeys of doubt within their faith.
(314) 375-4816 View (314) 375-4816
Photo of gokc Healing Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
gokc Healing Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64113
Specifically, I have clinical expertise and training in EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, DBT, men’s issues, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, effective fathering training and personality disorders.
I love being a therapist & am grateful to be a part of the KC community of helpers! I believe in leaning into our strengths and cultivating ‘good enough’ mindset in deficit areas. We are not meant to live in our struggles - we are more than them. I offer support through humor, practical skill building & challenging/changing your beliefs. There are so many ways we can do this and your individual style will determine how we approach your work in session. gokc is a group practice - we have 5 terrific & diverse therapists to help you reconnect in life! Contact gokc today!
Specifically, I have clinical expertise and training in EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, DBT, men’s issues, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, effective fathering training and personality disorders.
I love being a therapist & am grateful to be a part of the KC community of helpers! I believe in leaning into our strengths and cultivating ‘good enough’ mindset in deficit areas. We are not meant to live in our struggles - we are more than them. I offer support through humor, practical skill building & challenging/changing your beliefs. There are so many ways we can do this and your individual style will determine how we approach your work in session. gokc is a group practice - we have 5 terrific & diverse therapists to help you reconnect in life! Contact gokc today!
(816) 209-1987 View (816) 209-1987
Photo of JD Cusumano, Ph.D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
JD Cusumano, Ph.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
I've had success working with clients dealing with anxiety (social, general, OCD, panic attacks).
After retiring as Director of Counseling at Lindenwood University, I moved to Warren County; I live in Wright City and now practice videotherapy from my home office. I have been an LPC in Missouri since 1987, and the author of two books. I very much enjoy working with clients; I have a professional, energetic, friendly style. As a systems therapist, I approach clients in an interdependent manner... never in isolation. Even when working with individual clients, I am mindful of how their myriad relationships affect them...and how they affect others. I think of all clients psycho-biologically. IFS and ketamine are new interests.
I've had success working with clients dealing with anxiety (social, general, OCD, panic attacks).
After retiring as Director of Counseling at Lindenwood University, I moved to Warren County; I live in Wright City and now practice videotherapy from my home office. I have been an LPC in Missouri since 1987, and the author of two books. I very much enjoy working with clients; I have a professional, energetic, friendly style. As a systems therapist, I approach clients in an interdependent manner... never in isolation. Even when working with individual clients, I am mindful of how their myriad relationships affect them...and how they affect others. I think of all clients psycho-biologically. IFS and ketamine are new interests.
(636) 389-4046 View (636) 389-4046
Photo of Bryan Thorson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Bryan Thorson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
From 2002 until 2014 I was an Adolescent Therapist and Clinical Administrator at Logos School. Throughout my professional experience I have guided many adolescents, young adults and their families toward attaining their emotional, social and academic goals. I have established effective therapeutic relationships with individuals suffering from a variety of disorders and issues including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar, OCD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, grief and loss, self-injurious behavior, school phobia, substance abuse and others. I believe that everyone has a voice that deserves to be heard and I am here to listen.
From 2002 until 2014 I was an Adolescent Therapist and Clinical Administrator at Logos School. Throughout my professional experience I have guided many adolescents, young adults and their families toward attaining their emotional, social and academic goals. I have established effective therapeutic relationships with individuals suffering from a variety of disorders and issues including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar, OCD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, grief and loss, self-injurious behavior, school phobia, substance abuse and others. I believe that everyone has a voice that deserves to be heard and I am here to listen.
(314) 485-2974 View (314) 485-2974
Photo of Clayton Brigance, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Clayton Brigance
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I also provide evaluations for children age 6-17 for dyslexia, Autism, OCD, mood disorders, and ADHD.
My passion in our therapy space together is walking alongside individuals and couples alike on their journey towards wholeness, and to help parents find answers for their child through sound psychological evaluation. I also specialize in counseling couples through infertility - If you are experiencing infertility/reproductive loss, like my wife and I have, I would be honored to hold your story, because your story matters. I also have extensive experience as a certified school psychologist in the public schools. If you are worried about your child, I can provide a psychological evaluation to help you navigate on where to go next.
I also provide evaluations for children age 6-17 for dyslexia, Autism, OCD, mood disorders, and ADHD.
My passion in our therapy space together is walking alongside individuals and couples alike on their journey towards wholeness, and to help parents find answers for their child through sound psychological evaluation. I also specialize in counseling couples through infertility - If you are experiencing infertility/reproductive loss, like my wife and I have, I would be honored to hold your story, because your story matters. I also have extensive experience as a certified school psychologist in the public schools. If you are worried about your child, I can provide a psychological evaluation to help you navigate on where to go next.
(636) 948-6569 View (636) 948-6569
Photo of Jonathan Trotter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Jonathan Trotter
Pre-Licensed Professional, RN, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webb City, MO 64870
I have experience journeying with people through issues such as grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, abuse (spiritual, sexual, physical, emotional), debriefing, ministry burnout, and addictions.
As a counseling intern with Mt. Hope Christian Counseling Center, I am excited to offer marriage counseling, pre-marital counseling, and individual counseling to clients thirteen and over.
I have experience journeying with people through issues such as grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, abuse (spiritual, sexual, physical, emotional), debriefing, ministry burnout, and addictions.
As a counseling intern with Mt. Hope Christian Counseling Center, I am excited to offer marriage counseling, pre-marital counseling, and individual counseling to clients thirteen and over.
(417) 739-8358 View (417) 739-8358
Photo of Michael J Mayer, Psychologist in Missouri
Michael J Mayer
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
I work with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bi-polar disorder and marriage and family issues that cause emotional difficulties.
I love working with all types of relationships. Life is about relationships with our parents, our significant other, our children, our co-workers, our friends and our higher power(our God)and any other person who affects our lives. My goal is to help you reach your goals in life. I can help you achieve this level of success. I work with individuals, families, couples and with workplace issues. I have been in practice for over 25 years and still find each person or situation challenging. Give me a call or e-mail. My goal is to touch your life in some positive way.
I work with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bi-polar disorder and marriage and family issues that cause emotional difficulties.
I love working with all types of relationships. Life is about relationships with our parents, our significant other, our children, our co-workers, our friends and our higher power(our God)and any other person who affects our lives. My goal is to help you reach your goals in life. I can help you achieve this level of success. I work with individuals, families, couples and with workplace issues. I have been in practice for over 25 years and still find each person or situation challenging. Give me a call or e-mail. My goal is to touch your life in some positive way.
(573) 246-0917 View (573) 246-0917

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.