Photo of Samantha Dawes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Samantha Dawes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmond, OK 73012
As a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma's Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, I am up to date on the leading evidence-based treatments for areas such as anxiety/panic, OCD, depression, divorce and adjustment disorders.
Everyone should have someone in their life they can call an ally. Someone who listens empathetically and compassionately, fully without judgement. If that is what you are looking for in a therapist and you are ready to see changes within your life, please look no further! I specialize in treating individuals from children, teens to adults utilizing a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities. Together, we will work as a team to develop and accomplish your therapeutic goals and work towards living the life you have always envisioned for yourself.
As a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma's Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, I am up to date on the leading evidence-based treatments for areas such as anxiety/panic, OCD, depression, divorce and adjustment disorders.
Everyone should have someone in their life they can call an ally. Someone who listens empathetically and compassionately, fully without judgement. If that is what you are looking for in a therapist and you are ready to see changes within your life, please look no further! I specialize in treating individuals from children, teens to adults utilizing a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities. Together, we will work as a team to develop and accomplish your therapeutic goals and work towards living the life you have always envisioned for yourself.
(405) 554-3659 View (405) 554-3659
Photo of Amanda Maul, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Amanda Maul
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73013
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and mood dysregulation. I also treat youth who struggle with problematic sexual behavior. Utilizing evidence-based treatment, I am able to help individuals by inspiring thought and behavior changes.
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and mood dysregulation. I also treat youth who struggle with problematic sexual behavior. Utilizing evidence-based treatment, I am able to help individuals by inspiring thought and behavior changes.
(405) 451-3476 View (405) 451-3476
Photo of Abby Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Abby Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74133
My goal is to help clients become the best version of themselves. This might involve exploring values, challenging your negative thinking, overcoming personal challenges, or talking through relationship issues. My approach is to first get to know you in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship. Once that is established, we then work on a common goal to help improve your daily functioning. I will collaborate with you to assure that the treatment you are getting is what you are seeking. I specialize in treating OCD and other anxiety related problems.
My goal is to help clients become the best version of themselves. This might involve exploring values, challenging your negative thinking, overcoming personal challenges, or talking through relationship issues. My approach is to first get to know you in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship. Once that is established, we then work on a common goal to help improve your daily functioning. I will collaborate with you to assure that the treatment you are getting is what you are seeking. I specialize in treating OCD and other anxiety related problems.
(539) 444-5790 View (539) 444-5790
Photo of Aaron Jennings, Psychologist in Oklahoma
Aaron Jennings
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112  (Online Only)
While I work with clients from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of presenting difficulties, some areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, OCD, body-focused repetitive behaviors (trichotillomania, excoriation, etc.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I provide therapy services to adults and adolescents. My priority is to ensure I have a full understanding of a client’s needs to ultimately create a safe and comfortable space. It is my belief that problems addressed in therapy do not exist in isolation. Therefore, I commonly explore personal stressors, relationships, and identities with my clients. I do not believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. Instead, I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches into my work, including Multi-Cultural, Interpersonal, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies.
While I work with clients from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of presenting difficulties, some areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, OCD, body-focused repetitive behaviors (trichotillomania, excoriation, etc.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I provide therapy services to adults and adolescents. My priority is to ensure I have a full understanding of a client’s needs to ultimately create a safe and comfortable space. It is my belief that problems addressed in therapy do not exist in isolation. Therefore, I commonly explore personal stressors, relationships, and identities with my clients. I do not believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. Instead, I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches into my work, including Multi-Cultural, Interpersonal, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies.
(405) 554-3859 View (405) 554-3859
Photo of Amelia Brewer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Amelia Brewer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Edmond, OK 73034  (Online Only)
Problems enter our lives and we do the best we can to manage and cope. Sometimes, it is useful to have someone to help navigate these struggles. That is how I view my role. It is important to me to provide a space where clients receive unconditional positive regard and where we work together as a collaborative team. I practice evidenced based psychology which is effective in relieving a variety of problems. My two main areas of focus are gender health as well as treating OCD/Phobias and related disorders. I work to incorporate techniques that make sense to the client and are effective in bringing relief.
Problems enter our lives and we do the best we can to manage and cope. Sometimes, it is useful to have someone to help navigate these struggles. That is how I view my role. It is important to me to provide a space where clients receive unconditional positive regard and where we work together as a collaborative team. I practice evidenced based psychology which is effective in relieving a variety of problems. My two main areas of focus are gender health as well as treating OCD/Phobias and related disorders. I work to incorporate techniques that make sense to the client and are effective in bringing relief.
(405) 835-6950 View (405) 835-6950
Photo of Krysta Diehl-Craig, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Krysta Diehl-Craig
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74105  (Online Only)
I have been trained in a number of modalities, specializing in the treatment of OCD, anxiety and teen issues.
My name is Krysta and I am a licensed professional counselor. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe place for you. I also prioritize authenticity and humor in my practice. My practice is a place I want my clients to come in, kick their shoes off, and get real with me. I have experience working with clients struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, child behavioral issues, and family issues. In addition, I feel confident helping my clients explore root behaviors and stressors leading to unwanted symptoms.
I have been trained in a number of modalities, specializing in the treatment of OCD, anxiety and teen issues.
My name is Krysta and I am a licensed professional counselor. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe place for you. I also prioritize authenticity and humor in my practice. My practice is a place I want my clients to come in, kick their shoes off, and get real with me. I have experience working with clients struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, child behavioral issues, and family issues. In addition, I feel confident helping my clients explore root behaviors and stressors leading to unwanted symptoms.
(918) 233-8933 View (918) 233-8933
Photo of April McCoy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
April McCoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73013  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with individuals with OCD, anxiety, phobias, tic, and BFRBs. I provide ethical and evidence-based services by immersing myself in continuing education and training led by up-to-date research in order to provide focused care for individuals with issues in these specific areas. It takes a great deal of bravery to walk into a therapist's office -and- research says working with a therapist is essential in successfully addressing these diagnoses. My role is to honor that bravery with care, acceptance, and options toward the changes you want to see.
I work collaboratively with individuals with OCD, anxiety, phobias, tic, and BFRBs. I provide ethical and evidence-based services by immersing myself in continuing education and training led by up-to-date research in order to provide focused care for individuals with issues in these specific areas. It takes a great deal of bravery to walk into a therapist's office -and- research says working with a therapist is essential in successfully addressing these diagnoses. My role is to honor that bravery with care, acceptance, and options toward the changes you want to see.
(405) 655-5049 View (405) 655-5049
Photo of Samantha Whelan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Samantha Whelan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74119
Now Accepting New Clients. You feel trapped. Stuck in a seemingly endless loop of unwanted thoughts, fears, or painful memories. You feel like the only way to get relief is to avoid what hurts or do something…anything to quiet the thoughts. Your symptoms have made your life smaller and smaller until you don't even recognize who you are or who you were meant to be. You only see your symptoms. Perfectionism, OCD, anxiety, depression, substance use, and/or trauma make you feel like you are on an island alone. Let me help you to stand up to your fears, confront your shame or guilt, and reclaim your life. You can overcome.
Now Accepting New Clients. You feel trapped. Stuck in a seemingly endless loop of unwanted thoughts, fears, or painful memories. You feel like the only way to get relief is to avoid what hurts or do something…anything to quiet the thoughts. Your symptoms have made your life smaller and smaller until you don't even recognize who you are or who you were meant to be. You only see your symptoms. Perfectionism, OCD, anxiety, depression, substance use, and/or trauma make you feel like you are on an island alone. Let me help you to stand up to your fears, confront your shame or guilt, and reclaim your life. You can overcome.
(918) 900-1511 View (918) 900-1511
Photo of Jeff Lloyd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Jeff Lloyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73013
I also enjoy working with Obsessive Compulsive disorders and marital therapy with great success.
Hello, my name is Jeff Lloyd and I am very confident that I can help you! I have been licensed since 1998 and have experience as a therapist in foster care, schools, inpatient (over 10 years) and outpatient. I have taught Master's level therapists in college and currently supervise therapists for their license. My true focus of counseling is to join with my clients and begin the experience of Joy in the process of Change! It is an honor and privilege to take this journey with you.
I also enjoy working with Obsessive Compulsive disorders and marital therapy with great success.
Hello, my name is Jeff Lloyd and I am very confident that I can help you! I have been licensed since 1998 and have experience as a therapist in foster care, schools, inpatient (over 10 years) and outpatient. I have taught Master's level therapists in college and currently supervise therapists for their license. My true focus of counseling is to join with my clients and begin the experience of Joy in the process of Change! It is an honor and privilege to take this journey with you.
(405) 835-6051 View (405) 835-6051
Photo of Elle Skelton, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Elle Skelton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LPCMHSP, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73120  (Online Only)
I have been working in mental health for 5 years and have over 5,800 hours of supervised and specialized experience with OCD, anxiety, and ED.
There are so many things outside of our control that are inevitably difficult to cope with. Even with the unforeseen situations and stressors that life throws our way, the one thing we do have control over is the way we respond to them. However, it is difficult to know how to respond when we are experiencing fear, anxiety, and other heightened emotions. I want to help people strengthen their coping capabilities in an environment that is open, non-judgmental, and collaborative. My goal is to provide support to individuals, couples, and families tackling every day and life stressors with more confidence, hope, self-empowerment.
I have been working in mental health for 5 years and have over 5,800 hours of supervised and specialized experience with OCD, anxiety, and ED.
There are so many things outside of our control that are inevitably difficult to cope with. Even with the unforeseen situations and stressors that life throws our way, the one thing we do have control over is the way we respond to them. However, it is difficult to know how to respond when we are experiencing fear, anxiety, and other heightened emotions. I want to help people strengthen their coping capabilities in an environment that is open, non-judgmental, and collaborative. My goal is to provide support to individuals, couples, and families tackling every day and life stressors with more confidence, hope, self-empowerment.
(872) 204-1472 View (872) 204-1472
Photo of Amy Bartel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oklahoma
Amy Bartel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norman, OK 73072  (Online Only)
Specializing in Treating: Stress, Trauma/PTSD (physical/sexual/emotional abuse), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety/Panic, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, OCD, Women's Issues/Fertility, Spiritual Issues, & support for personal goals/coaching.
A Holistic Healing Model That Includes All of You. You are Much More Than You Think You Are! Questions To Consider: ​Are you dealing with trauma and stress? Do you wish you had tools to transform your mood and mindset from negative to positive? Do you wonder who you would be without your current worries and problems? Do you have a feeling that there is something bigger and more meaningful that you are here to do? Are you struggling to understand your inner world but keep creating the same situations over and over again?
Specializing in Treating: Stress, Trauma/PTSD (physical/sexual/emotional abuse), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety/Panic, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, OCD, Women's Issues/Fertility, Spiritual Issues, & support for personal goals/coaching.
A Holistic Healing Model That Includes All of You. You are Much More Than You Think You Are! Questions To Consider: ​Are you dealing with trauma and stress? Do you wish you had tools to transform your mood and mindset from negative to positive? Do you wonder who you would be without your current worries and problems? Do you have a feeling that there is something bigger and more meaningful that you are here to do? Are you struggling to understand your inner world but keep creating the same situations over and over again?
(405) 993-4318 View (405) 993-4318
Photo of A Peace Within, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
A Peace Within, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Owasso, OK 74055
I also have experience working with people struggling with anxiety, ADHD and obsessive compulsive disorder.
Do you or your children struggle to live in the world that surrounds us all? Find yourself feeling down or anxious? I'm here to help you navigate the "bumps" in the road to your inner peace.
I also have experience working with people struggling with anxiety, ADHD and obsessive compulsive disorder.
Do you or your children struggle to live in the world that surrounds us all? Find yourself feeling down or anxious? I'm here to help you navigate the "bumps" in the road to your inner peace.
(918) 876-0250 View (918) 876-0250
Photo of Elite Brain Performance and Neurofeedback, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Elite Brain Performance and Neurofeedback
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BCN
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73106
We are a Neurofeedback facility In OKC, OK. Neurofeedback is a form of Biofeedback that measures brainwave activity. I am 1 of 4 certified practitioners in the Oklahoma City area. Our approach to Neurofeedback is that we all have the ability to change our lives. Many times it is not our lack of discipline or being unmotivated to change, but the fact that our brains get stuck in a cycle that does not allow us to regulate ourselves. We currently work with a wide range of individuals with issues related the Anxiety, OCD, depression, Trauma, concussions, Sports Performance-related issues as well as many others brain based issues.
We are a Neurofeedback facility In OKC, OK. Neurofeedback is a form of Biofeedback that measures brainwave activity. I am 1 of 4 certified practitioners in the Oklahoma City area. Our approach to Neurofeedback is that we all have the ability to change our lives. Many times it is not our lack of discipline or being unmotivated to change, but the fact that our brains get stuck in a cycle that does not allow us to regulate ourselves. We currently work with a wide range of individuals with issues related the Anxiety, OCD, depression, Trauma, concussions, Sports Performance-related issues as well as many others brain based issues.
(405) 766-8641 View (405) 766-8641
Photo of Natalie May, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma
Natalie May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMHIMP, TF-CBT, T-ASI
Verified Verified
Bartlesville, OK 74006  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with PTSD, Anxiety or Panic? Have you struggled with mental health due to chronic pain or chronic illness? Have you tried diet changes, getting better sleep or being more active, but still struggle with health issues, diet planning, weight management & feeling tired? I work with pre-teens, teens and adults combining multiple evidence-based practices to provide support in areas such as anxiety, PTSD, OCD, phobias, chronic pain/illness, emotional regulation, sleep disorders, family structure and support, substance abuse, LGBTQ, trauma, lifeskills, coping skills, diet planning and co-dependency.
Do you struggle with PTSD, Anxiety or Panic? Have you struggled with mental health due to chronic pain or chronic illness? Have you tried diet changes, getting better sleep or being more active, but still struggle with health issues, diet planning, weight management & feeling tired? I work with pre-teens, teens and adults combining multiple evidence-based practices to provide support in areas such as anxiety, PTSD, OCD, phobias, chronic pain/illness, emotional regulation, sleep disorders, family structure and support, substance abuse, LGBTQ, trauma, lifeskills, coping skills, diet planning and co-dependency.
(918) 331-9050 View (918) 331-9050
Photo of Fabiana Males, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Fabiana Males
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73003
Common areas of types of specialty I work with are related to adjustment issues of changes and/or disorders, divorce, blended family issues, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, bereavement, grief, obsessions (OCD), women's issues, Cognitive behavioral Therapy, "talk therapy", solution focused, psychoanalytical, Spiritual counseling, life changes, etc.
Are you feeling stressed, tired, sad and/or anxious, or just need someone to talk to? Whatever the problem is, You will see that I am easy to talk to and you will feel safe to say what is in your mind. It is imperative to have a positive experience and feel compatible with your therapist. I believe everyone goes through rough times in their lives and no one is saved from problems. I treat everyone with the upmost respect and dignity they deserve and understand the importance of compassion and being understood as essential in the therapeutic process.
Common areas of types of specialty I work with are related to adjustment issues of changes and/or disorders, divorce, blended family issues, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, bereavement, grief, obsessions (OCD), women's issues, Cognitive behavioral Therapy, "talk therapy", solution focused, psychoanalytical, Spiritual counseling, life changes, etc.
Are you feeling stressed, tired, sad and/or anxious, or just need someone to talk to? Whatever the problem is, You will see that I am easy to talk to and you will feel safe to say what is in your mind. It is imperative to have a positive experience and feel compatible with your therapist. I believe everyone goes through rough times in their lives and no one is saved from problems. I treat everyone with the upmost respect and dignity they deserve and understand the importance of compassion and being understood as essential in the therapeutic process.
(405) 451-4978 View (405) 451-4978
Photo of Courtney L Linsenmeyer-Obrien in Oklahoma
Courtney L Linsenmeyer-Obrien
PhD, MHR, PLC
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74104
I work in the private sector helping those with depression, anxiety and sexual issues. Addiction and OCD are also specialties. I have a nutrition and exercise physiology background helping patients struggling with self-abuse, obsessive thinking, and control. I counsel couples and one-on-one. My services are based on understanding symptoms and finding the best method of treatment to promote growth and provide solutions. As a rule, the overall philosophy is to treat the causes as well as the symptoms to provide a greater treatement benefit. Clientelle range in age from 13- on up.
I work in the private sector helping those with depression, anxiety and sexual issues. Addiction and OCD are also specialties. I have a nutrition and exercise physiology background helping patients struggling with self-abuse, obsessive thinking, and control. I counsel couples and one-on-one. My services are based on understanding symptoms and finding the best method of treatment to promote growth and provide solutions. As a rule, the overall philosophy is to treat the causes as well as the symptoms to provide a greater treatement benefit. Clientelle range in age from 13- on up.
(918) 766-9968 View (918) 766-9968
Photo of Chelsea E Sutton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oklahoma
Chelsea E Sutton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS , LPC-C
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73107
Life is a journey, not a destination. I am here to help people along their path, whatever that may bring. I serve children, teens, adults, families and couples. I come form a multi- cultural and diverse background that helps me work with all populations while always taking into account the uniqueness of each of us. I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, autism, anger, OCD, trauma, ADHD, personality disorders, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, work place stress, and/or relationship difficulties.
Life is a journey, not a destination. I am here to help people along their path, whatever that may bring. I serve children, teens, adults, families and couples. I come form a multi- cultural and diverse background that helps me work with all populations while always taking into account the uniqueness of each of us. I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, autism, anger, OCD, trauma, ADHD, personality disorders, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, work place stress, and/or relationship difficulties.
(405) 643-6969 View (405) 643-6969
Photo of Stephanie Hassell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oklahoma
Stephanie Hassell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee, OK 74804
I also have experience treating OCD/related disorders and many other mental, emotional, and behavioral issues.
As your therapist, my role is to be the person who collaborates with you to achieve the goals you already have, while also giving you new tools and skills to reach goals you didn’t know you could. I do this by supporting you during times of struggle, giving unconditional positive regard, and providing a non-judgmental space for you to feel comfortable being yourself. You’ve already learned how to survive, so now it’s time to learn how to thrive.
I also have experience treating OCD/related disorders and many other mental, emotional, and behavioral issues.
As your therapist, my role is to be the person who collaborates with you to achieve the goals you already have, while also giving you new tools and skills to reach goals you didn’t know you could. I do this by supporting you during times of struggle, giving unconditional positive regard, and providing a non-judgmental space for you to feel comfortable being yourself. You’ve already learned how to survive, so now it’s time to learn how to thrive.
(405) 449-8417 View (405) 449-8417
Photo of Emily Carr, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oklahoma
Emily Carr
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMFT-C
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
My specialties include grief, divorce, adjustment, anxiety, depression, and OCD.
- Accepting New Clients 2024 - As humans, we are all doing the best we can with what we have and what we know. Still, life is challenging and can be difficult to manage especially when we are feeling stuck. This stuck-ness impacts our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and even our behaviors. Therapy is the safe place to pause and evaluate how we grow into being our best selves. You deserve to feel and live as your best self for you and those you love. My role is to walk alongside you in the discovery of what healing/growing looks like for you.
My specialties include grief, divorce, adjustment, anxiety, depression, and OCD.
- Accepting New Clients 2024 - As humans, we are all doing the best we can with what we have and what we know. Still, life is challenging and can be difficult to manage especially when we are feeling stuck. This stuck-ness impacts our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and even our behaviors. Therapy is the safe place to pause and evaluate how we grow into being our best selves. You deserve to feel and live as your best self for you and those you love. My role is to walk alongside you in the discovery of what healing/growing looks like for you.
(405) 873-6682 View (405) 873-6682
Photo of Harmonious Healing Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Harmonious Healing Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73120
Please submit all requests by email and include your insurance provider. Harmonious Healing Counseling LLC offers individual, family, marriage, and group services in person and via telehealth for behavioral disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders; eating disorders; personality disorders; anxiety disorders, including panic disorder; obsessive-compulsive disorder; phobias; post-traumatic stress disorder; psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, etc.
Please submit all requests by email and include your insurance provider. Harmonious Healing Counseling LLC offers individual, family, marriage, and group services in person and via telehealth for behavioral disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders; eating disorders; personality disorders; anxiety disorders, including panic disorder; obsessive-compulsive disorder; phobias; post-traumatic stress disorder; psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, etc.
(405) 716-7415 View (405) 716-7415
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.