Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Missouri

Photo of Emily Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Emily Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, ND, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the state of Missouri. I received a Masters in Counseling Psychology as well as a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in 2017. During my studies, I was a staff counselor at Bastyr University. In addition, I offered low cost therapy to the community at a year long internship at Seattle Therapy Alliance. I spent 4 years as a clinical fellow at Roots Renewal Counseling in St. Louis, MO. I enjoy working with adults experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss, chronic illness, identity development, career, body image and self confidence.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the state of Missouri. I received a Masters in Counseling Psychology as well as a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in 2017. During my studies, I was a staff counselor at Bastyr University. In addition, I offered low cost therapy to the community at a year long internship at Seattle Therapy Alliance. I spent 4 years as a clinical fellow at Roots Renewal Counseling in St. Louis, MO. I enjoy working with adults experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss, chronic illness, identity development, career, body image and self confidence.
(314) 626-8862 View (314) 626-8862
Photo of Joanna Struttman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Joanna Struttman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am here to support and help you work through your struggles with OCD, anxiety & worry, and trauma.
Welcome and congratulations on starting your counseling journey! If you’re tired of feeling like you can’t understand why you don’t have energy, are confused about your life decisions, or continuing to cancel plans due to anxiety, I can help. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma, life changes, and negative thoughts about yourself. I also offer online EMDR therapy.
As a therapist, I am here to support and help you work through your struggles with OCD, anxiety & worry, and trauma.
Welcome and congratulations on starting your counseling journey! If you’re tired of feeling like you can’t understand why you don’t have energy, are confused about your life decisions, or continuing to cancel plans due to anxiety, I can help. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma, life changes, and negative thoughts about yourself. I also offer online EMDR therapy.
(314) 648-3745 View (314) 648-3745
Photo of Tanner Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Tanner Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
Having a specialist to help you untangle yourself from obsessive thoughts and compulsions can be essential.
I provide a therapy called ERP (exposure and response prevention) for people with OCD. If you’re reading this, you probably know that OCD can take on a life of its own. My clients are trying their best to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, yet OCD can become incredibly time consuming and take attention away from the very activities and people that matter most. With treatment, my clients are increasingly able to feel a sense of safety in their lives and join others instead of needing to control the moment.
Having a specialist to help you untangle yourself from obsessive thoughts and compulsions can be essential.
I provide a therapy called ERP (exposure and response prevention) for people with OCD. If you’re reading this, you probably know that OCD can take on a life of its own. My clients are trying their best to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, yet OCD can become incredibly time consuming and take attention away from the very activities and people that matter most. With treatment, my clients are increasingly able to feel a sense of safety in their lives and join others instead of needing to control the moment.
(816) 227-6894 View (816) 227-6894
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 Katherine Ottofy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Katherine Ottofy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Also, I use ERP for OCD.
Navigating life’s challenges can often feel overwhelming. You might be grappling with trauma, chronic worry, anxiety, or struggling with low self-esteem and depression. You're looking for more than just coping mechanisms or quick fixes; you seek a transformative healing journey. You want to feel empowered and validated, to see tangible progress in your life. In short, it's time to build a life where past pains and stressors no longer dictate your present or future. You're ready to invest in therapy that extends its benefits beyond the therapy room, integrating what you learn into your daily life for lasting change and well-being.
Also, I use ERP for OCD.
Navigating life’s challenges can often feel overwhelming. You might be grappling with trauma, chronic worry, anxiety, or struggling with low self-esteem and depression. You're looking for more than just coping mechanisms or quick fixes; you seek a transformative healing journey. You want to feel empowered and validated, to see tangible progress in your life. In short, it's time to build a life where past pains and stressors no longer dictate your present or future. You're ready to invest in therapy that extends its benefits beyond the therapy room, integrating what you learn into your daily life for lasting change and well-being.
(573) 367-5751 View (573) 367-5751
Photo of Kristy Cobillas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Kristy Cobillas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesterfield, MO 63017
Waitlist for new clients
As an OCD, Trauma, and Anxiety specialist, I am here to tell you that you do not have to continue to suffer from the pervasive and agonizing obsessive thoughts associated with OCD, nor do you need to continue to carry the trauma of the past with you. The thoughts, emotions, and self concepts continue to follow, despite the fact that time passes, and despite how much you KNOW that the obsessive thoughts are unnecessary, you seem to not be able to break free from them. If it seems as though no matter what you KNOW about life, there is a struggle to feel differently, I want you to know that this can change.
As an OCD, Trauma, and Anxiety specialist, I am here to tell you that you do not have to continue to suffer from the pervasive and agonizing obsessive thoughts associated with OCD, nor do you need to continue to carry the trauma of the past with you. The thoughts, emotions, and self concepts continue to follow, despite the fact that time passes, and despite how much you KNOW that the obsessive thoughts are unnecessary, you seem to not be able to break free from them. If it seems as though no matter what you KNOW about life, there is a struggle to feel differently, I want you to know that this can change.
(314) 470-8907 View (314) 470-8907
Photo of Maia Nagle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Maia Nagle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63017
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, relationship issues, and more. I am also passionate about helping parents understand and interpret their children’s behavior. I have daytime and evening openings to work with clients of all ages and especially enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, parents, couples, and families.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, relationship issues, and more. I am also passionate about helping parents understand and interpret their children’s behavior. I have daytime and evening openings to work with clients of all ages and especially enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, parents, couples, and families.
(314) 866-9254 View (314) 866-9254
Photo of Sarah Burns, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Sarah Burns, LMSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122  (Online Only)
With years of working in residential treatment centers, I am passionate about treating eating disorders, OCD, and related conditions such as anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, and body image.
Has the need for control taken control over your life? Have avoidance, distraction, or other strategies you use to ease your anxiety created problems in the long run?  Therapy can provide you with the tools to not only reduce your suffering, but produce a life better than you ever imagined. Working together, I will help you face irrational fears, challenge ingrained thoughts and behaviors, and find more effective ways to cope. I specialize in eating disorders, OCD, and related anxiety disorders.
With years of working in residential treatment centers, I am passionate about treating eating disorders, OCD, and related conditions such as anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, and body image.
Has the need for control taken control over your life? Have avoidance, distraction, or other strategies you use to ease your anxiety created problems in the long run?  Therapy can provide you with the tools to not only reduce your suffering, but produce a life better than you ever imagined. Working together, I will help you face irrational fears, challenge ingrained thoughts and behaviors, and find more effective ways to cope. I specialize in eating disorders, OCD, and related anxiety disorders.
(314) 794-7370 View (314) 794-7370
Photo of Angela Adamson Springer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Angela Adamson Springer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63124
If you or your child/teen is struggling with anxiety-related problems or OCD- we've got you! My name is Angela Springer; I am the owner of Calm Mind CBT. All five therapists at Calm Mind have advanced training in evidence-based treatment for anxiety and OCD. Treatment that works! We work with kids, teens, adults, and parents (so everyone!). Our PASSION is to make therapy fun and engaging for kids. Check out our Instagram to see lots of fun video (CalmMindCBT). We can't wait to show you how we can help as you take the first (or maybe the millionth) step toward reducing your/your child's anxiety. You are no longer alone in this!
If you or your child/teen is struggling with anxiety-related problems or OCD- we've got you! My name is Angela Springer; I am the owner of Calm Mind CBT. All five therapists at Calm Mind have advanced training in evidence-based treatment for anxiety and OCD. Treatment that works! We work with kids, teens, adults, and parents (so everyone!). Our PASSION is to make therapy fun and engaging for kids. Check out our Instagram to see lots of fun video (CalmMindCBT). We can't wait to show you how we can help as you take the first (or maybe the millionth) step toward reducing your/your child's anxiety. You are no longer alone in this!
(314) 309-3374 View (314) 309-3374
Photo of Kendra Price, Psychologist in Missouri
Kendra Price
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It works for all OCD cases but is especially effective for "Pure O" OCD and/or sensorimotor OCD (getting overly focused on breathing, heart beat, blinking, etc.
I am part of OCD Associates, a nation-wide private practice specializing in treating individuals with OCD; I was trained in ERP through the IOCDF in 2015. I typically see clients for a 45 minute session weekly or every two weeks via telehealth. I can see any client that is in a PsyPact state. Please e-mail info@ocdassociates for additional info or to join the waitlist.
It works for all OCD cases but is especially effective for "Pure O" OCD and/or sensorimotor OCD (getting overly focused on breathing, heart beat, blinking, etc.
I am part of OCD Associates, a nation-wide private practice specializing in treating individuals with OCD; I was trained in ERP through the IOCDF in 2015. I typically see clients for a 45 minute session weekly or every two weeks via telehealth. I can see any client that is in a PsyPact state. Please e-mail info@ocdassociates for additional info or to join the waitlist.
(417) 344-1028 View (417) 344-1028
Photo of Dr. Rachael Herrington Roldan, Psychologist in Missouri
Dr. Rachael Herrington Roldan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
I trained two years training at Baylor College of Medicine and have experience using evidence-based treatments to successfully treat clients with anxiety disorders such as OCD, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, and PTSD; mood disorders such as depression and Bipolar; and psychotic disorders such as Schizophrenia.
Hoping to regain control of your life? Uncertain about what your future holds? Getting help from a trusted professional is an important first step! I would love to help if you are struggling with anxiety, obsessional doubt, fear, worry, panic, depression, intrusive thoughts, or the aftermath of trauma. I have experience treating a broad range of clinical problems and would love to help you get your life back! Many of my past and current clients are just going through a rough time and need additional support from someone outside their immediate circles. Others have a diagnosable disorder. Either way, I'd love to help!
I trained two years training at Baylor College of Medicine and have experience using evidence-based treatments to successfully treat clients with anxiety disorders such as OCD, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, and PTSD; mood disorders such as depression and Bipolar; and psychotic disorders such as Schizophrenia.
Hoping to regain control of your life? Uncertain about what your future holds? Getting help from a trusted professional is an important first step! I would love to help if you are struggling with anxiety, obsessional doubt, fear, worry, panic, depression, intrusive thoughts, or the aftermath of trauma. I have experience treating a broad range of clinical problems and would love to help you get your life back! Many of my past and current clients are just going through a rough time and need additional support from someone outside their immediate circles. Others have a diagnosable disorder. Either way, I'd love to help!
(417) 213-5434 View (417) 213-5434
Photo of Yvonne Hertich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Yvonne Hertich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63118
I believe that everyone can benefit from having an empowering, nonjudgmental therapist in their life. You may feel like you’re functioning okay on the outside but have disruptive thoughts, challenging relationships, or past situations that interrupt your life. I can provide you or your child with a space where you can be your authentic self while working towards making changes, overcoming difficulties, and coping with life’s variety of challenges. I specialize in OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, grief/loss, and emotional dysregulation.
I believe that everyone can benefit from having an empowering, nonjudgmental therapist in their life. You may feel like you’re functioning okay on the outside but have disruptive thoughts, challenging relationships, or past situations that interrupt your life. I can provide you or your child with a space where you can be your authentic self while working towards making changes, overcoming difficulties, and coping with life’s variety of challenges. I specialize in OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, grief/loss, and emotional dysregulation.
(314) 254-9149 View (314) 254-9149
Photo of Caroline Schmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Caroline Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beyond RO-DBT, I also work with people who struggle with OCD, specific phobias/fears, and PTSD.
Do you struggle with chronic or treatment-resistant depression or anxiety? Do you have high standards for yourself or others that are sometimes impossible to live up to? When others are having fun and relaxed, is it hard for you to join in? If any of these apply to you, then we might be a great therapeutic match! Trained by the treatment developers at the Radically Open Institute, I specialize in Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based, transdiagnostic therapy for disorders of overcontrol. I love working with people to build a life that’s not only worth living but also worth sharing!
Beyond RO-DBT, I also work with people who struggle with OCD, specific phobias/fears, and PTSD.
Do you struggle with chronic or treatment-resistant depression or anxiety? Do you have high standards for yourself or others that are sometimes impossible to live up to? When others are having fun and relaxed, is it hard for you to join in? If any of these apply to you, then we might be a great therapeutic match! Trained by the treatment developers at the Radically Open Institute, I specialize in Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based, transdiagnostic therapy for disorders of overcontrol. I love working with people to build a life that’s not only worth living but also worth sharing!
(314) 876-8097 View (314) 876-8097
Photo of Joanna Lucia Bissell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Joanna Lucia Bissell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122  (Online Only)
I love working with teenagers, college students and young adults ages 13-30. I most enjoy working with anxiety disorders (including OCD, phobias, and panic disorder), the effects of trauma, as well as LGBTQ clients. The majority of my training as a therapist has been in treating trauma, OCD and generalized anxiety. I am also a native Spanish speaker and love working with immigrant clients. Feel free to email with any questions about my experience.
I love working with teenagers, college students and young adults ages 13-30. I most enjoy working with anxiety disorders (including OCD, phobias, and panic disorder), the effects of trauma, as well as LGBTQ clients. The majority of my training as a therapist has been in treating trauma, OCD and generalized anxiety. I am also a native Spanish speaker and love working with immigrant clients. Feel free to email with any questions about my experience.
(314) 690-9582 View (314) 690-9582
Photo of Laura Chackes, Psychologist in Missouri
Laura Chackes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I've specialized in treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety and related disorders including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorder), Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Separation Anxiety, and Selective Mutism for the past 17 years. As the owner of The Center for Mindfulness & CBT, I've hired and trained other anxiety/OCD/BFRB experts, and continue to provide supervision and consultation, so I work to connect those I can't see to others in the practice.
I've specialized in treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety and related disorders including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorder), Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Separation Anxiety, and Selective Mutism for the past 17 years. As the owner of The Center for Mindfulness & CBT, I've hired and trained other anxiety/OCD/BFRB experts, and continue to provide supervision and consultation, so I work to connect those I can't see to others in the practice.
(314) 384-5223 View (314) 384-5223
Photo of Lauren Goldberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Lauren Goldberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
I specialize in anxiety related problems and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and love working with kids, teens, and young adults.
We all know what it's like to have anxious thoughts that take over and make it hard to get through the day or accomplish the goals we have for ourselves. I would love to help you navigate those big feelings, manage your anxiety, and live the life you want to have.
I specialize in anxiety related problems and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and love working with kids, teens, and young adults.
We all know what it's like to have anxious thoughts that take over and make it hard to get through the day or accomplish the goals we have for ourselves. I would love to help you navigate those big feelings, manage your anxiety, and live the life you want to have.
(314) 988-3006 x506 View (314) 988-3006 x506
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 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 Sarah Jarvis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Sarah Jarvis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65809
Sometimes what we KNOW is true does not FEEL true. Your days may involve fighting intrusive thoughts, wrestling with anxiety, or trying to act okay when you feel anything but “fine.” Your mind may feel like the problem right now, but it is a beautifully unique and complex part of you that is capable of wellness. While stress can be minimized, it will never be completely eliminated from our lives. However, our brains can learn to adapt and find safety even in the midst of life's storms. Whether you have trauma symptoms, anxiety, or OCD you can move beyond just surviving. You are capable of thriving.
Sometimes what we KNOW is true does not FEEL true. Your days may involve fighting intrusive thoughts, wrestling with anxiety, or trying to act okay when you feel anything but “fine.” Your mind may feel like the problem right now, but it is a beautifully unique and complex part of you that is capable of wellness. While stress can be minimized, it will never be completely eliminated from our lives. However, our brains can learn to adapt and find safety even in the midst of life's storms. Whether you have trauma symptoms, anxiety, or OCD you can move beyond just surviving. You are capable of thriving.
(417) 216-6430 View (417) 216-6430
Photo of Anna Cox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Anna Cox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
I work with clients who are trying to manage a variety of issues including stress, relationship difficulties, anxiety, life changes, trauma, and OCD.
If you know something needs to change, but feel lost and unsure of where to begin, you're not alone. Life can be challenging, and most people aren't given all the tools they need to be successful. It can leave you feeling emotionally overwhelmed and exhausted by everything you're trying to manage. I believe in the power of transformation and growth. My approach centers around helping you repair what's within your control and develop resilience against what isn't. Life's unpredictability can test us, but together, we'll work on building your inner strength and navigating all that comes your way.
I work with clients who are trying to manage a variety of issues including stress, relationship difficulties, anxiety, life changes, trauma, and OCD.
If you know something needs to change, but feel lost and unsure of where to begin, you're not alone. Life can be challenging, and most people aren't given all the tools they need to be successful. It can leave you feeling emotionally overwhelmed and exhausted by everything you're trying to manage. I believe in the power of transformation and growth. My approach centers around helping you repair what's within your control and develop resilience against what isn't. Life's unpredictability can test us, but together, we'll work on building your inner strength and navigating all that comes your way.
(573) 549-3940 View (573) 549-3940
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.