Photo of Carrie Jordon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Carrie Jordon
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
As somebody who has OCD & ADHD, I know the difference that having an empathetic and skilled therapist can make in your quality of life. I know what it's like to struggle, and it is my life's passion to help others know they aren't alone and I'm here to help. I have been fortunate to work with a diverse client population, and I have found that my easygoing, genuine, non-judgemental nature has helped my clients feel comfortable sharing their authentic selves with me. I especially love working with the LGBTQIA2S community, adolescents, OCD, AuDHD, PTSD & trauma, chronic illness, eating disorders, depression, & anxiety.
As somebody who has OCD & ADHD, I know the difference that having an empathetic and skilled therapist can make in your quality of life. I know what it's like to struggle, and it is my life's passion to help others know they aren't alone and I'm here to help. I have been fortunate to work with a diverse client population, and I have found that my easygoing, genuine, non-judgemental nature has helped my clients feel comfortable sharing their authentic selves with me. I especially love working with the LGBTQIA2S community, adolescents, OCD, AuDHD, PTSD & trauma, chronic illness, eating disorders, depression, & anxiety.
(503) 447-4222 View (503) 447-4222
Photo of Holistic Healing Pdx, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Holistic Healing Pdx
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Our group practice was founded with shared passion for helping folks who have experienced trauma and/or difficult childhood experiences to heal, reconnect to a sense of safety within themselves, and find the freedom to pursue a meaningful life without being stuck in the past. We are also interested and passionate about helping folks navigate trauma, OCD, anxiety disorders, and attachment difficulties that often show up in our closest relationships.
Our group practice was founded with shared passion for helping folks who have experienced trauma and/or difficult childhood experiences to heal, reconnect to a sense of safety within themselves, and find the freedom to pursue a meaningful life without being stuck in the past. We are also interested and passionate about helping folks navigate trauma, OCD, anxiety disorders, and attachment difficulties that often show up in our closest relationships.
(503) 809-5263 View (503) 809-5263
Photo of Steven M Brown, Counselor in Portland, OR
Steven M Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Not only limited to the anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, OCD, anger issues, and personality disorders or attachment issues.
A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.
Not only limited to the anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, OCD, anger issues, and personality disorders or attachment issues.
A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.
(253) 466-7490 View (253) 466-7490
Photo of Jenny Labrousse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jenny Labrousse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I'm also trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and anxiety related disorders, and I'm a level 1 trained Restoration Therapist.
Currently have a short waitlist. Best reached by email. Does it feel like your anxiety or depression is interrupting your daily life? Do you feel keyed up, irritable, or on edge? Do you feel a sense of dread or impending doom? Do you experience unwanted thoughts, urges, or images? I strive to provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, safe, and supportive therapeutic environment where we can work together to help you with your presenting concerns. I honor each client and their story and believe that the therapeutic relationship—built on openness, vulnerability, and trust—is necessary for success.
I'm also trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and anxiety related disorders, and I'm a level 1 trained Restoration Therapist.
Currently have a short waitlist. Best reached by email. Does it feel like your anxiety or depression is interrupting your daily life? Do you feel keyed up, irritable, or on edge? Do you feel a sense of dread or impending doom? Do you experience unwanted thoughts, urges, or images? I strive to provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, safe, and supportive therapeutic environment where we can work together to help you with your presenting concerns. I honor each client and their story and believe that the therapeutic relationship—built on openness, vulnerability, and trust—is necessary for success.
(971) 273-5523 View (971) 273-5523
Photo of Katie A Diershaw, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Katie A Diershaw
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Waitlist for new clients
I see clients with a broad range of concerns but my areas of focus include anxiety, OCD, trauma, ADHD, and serving individuals with LGBTQIA identities.
Not taking new clients until Sept 2023. Therapy is an inherently collaborative process. Effective therapy begins by building a foundation of trust, understanding, and compassion. I see my clients as experts on their experience, their values, and their goals. My role is to work with individuals to identify and develop creative strategies, tools, insights, etc., to support their growth and healing. As an integrative therapist, my work is primarily based in Gestalt, CBT/DBT, Mindfulness-based therapies, and is neuropsychologically informed. My work is grounded in feminist/intersectional frameworks with an emphasis on cultural humility.
I see clients with a broad range of concerns but my areas of focus include anxiety, OCD, trauma, ADHD, and serving individuals with LGBTQIA identities.
Not taking new clients until Sept 2023. Therapy is an inherently collaborative process. Effective therapy begins by building a foundation of trust, understanding, and compassion. I see my clients as experts on their experience, their values, and their goals. My role is to work with individuals to identify and develop creative strategies, tools, insights, etc., to support their growth and healing. As an integrative therapist, my work is primarily based in Gestalt, CBT/DBT, Mindfulness-based therapies, and is neuropsychologically informed. My work is grounded in feminist/intersectional frameworks with an emphasis on cultural humility.
(971) 803-5804 View (971) 803-5804
Photo of Elizabeth Leah Downs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Elizabeth Leah Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT, ACSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97280
I work well with depression, grief, anger management, anxiety/ panic attacks, trauma/ sexual abuse, bipolar & obsessive-compulsive disorders, substance abuse & addictions, as well as with relationship, family, work & school difficulties.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage when your life is not working, when you are feeling overwhelming emotions, or are ready to grow. With over 35 years of experience, I work skillfully with adults, children, families & couples. I am here to compassionately facilitate your learning to live your life with emotional freedom, purpose, creativity, passion & joy! Get in touch with the strength & beauty of your Inner Self & develop more satisfying relationships. Examine your thinking & beliefs & develop mindfulness, transforming your moods & your life. I use a gentle therapeutic style which is an eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal & holistic wellness approach.
I work well with depression, grief, anger management, anxiety/ panic attacks, trauma/ sexual abuse, bipolar & obsessive-compulsive disorders, substance abuse & addictions, as well as with relationship, family, work & school difficulties.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage when your life is not working, when you are feeling overwhelming emotions, or are ready to grow. With over 35 years of experience, I work skillfully with adults, children, families & couples. I am here to compassionately facilitate your learning to live your life with emotional freedom, purpose, creativity, passion & joy! Get in touch with the strength & beauty of your Inner Self & develop more satisfying relationships. Examine your thinking & beliefs & develop mindfulness, transforming your moods & your life. I use a gentle therapeutic style which is an eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal & holistic wellness approach.
(503) 444-9712 View (503) 444-9712
Photo of Assert Your Boundaries Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Assert Your Boundaries Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
I have experience and interest in helping individuals learn and identify strategies to manage and reduce phase of life problems, symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, barriers which impact self-esteem, cycle of violence, as well as types of abuse and the long term impact of abuse.
Not Accepting Clients At This Time-My name is Pauline Botchway, and I strongly believe that, as human beings, we have the ability to change and transform our lives through choice. Since no single theory can capture our experiences as human beings, I utilize an integrated approach that allows me to use some aspects of Gestalt, Existential, and Solution Focused, as well as high utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. In addition to my community mental health, I am including private practice in my line of work. My main goal as a clinician is to help and guide individuals to change their lives to improve everyday living.
I have experience and interest in helping individuals learn and identify strategies to manage and reduce phase of life problems, symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, barriers which impact self-esteem, cycle of violence, as well as types of abuse and the long term impact of abuse.
Not Accepting Clients At This Time-My name is Pauline Botchway, and I strongly believe that, as human beings, we have the ability to change and transform our lives through choice. Since no single theory can capture our experiences as human beings, I utilize an integrated approach that allows me to use some aspects of Gestalt, Existential, and Solution Focused, as well as high utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. In addition to my community mental health, I am including private practice in my line of work. My main goal as a clinician is to help and guide individuals to change their lives to improve everyday living.
(541) 648-1060 View (541) 648-1060
Photo of Corinne Sharlet, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Corinne Sharlet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults who feel paralyzed by fear of expressing themselves authentically and pursuing their desires, a sense of dissatisfaction in their life and loss of identity. I am passionate about helping people discover or re-discover their sense of joy and unique way of being in the world. I believe that humans are inherently expressive and creative beings but as we develop, our external circumstances often teach us that our natural instincts and authentic selves are wrong, which can result in anxiety, self-criticism/judgement, meaninglessness and depression.
I work with adults who feel paralyzed by fear of expressing themselves authentically and pursuing their desires, a sense of dissatisfaction in their life and loss of identity. I am passionate about helping people discover or re-discover their sense of joy and unique way of being in the world. I believe that humans are inherently expressive and creative beings but as we develop, our external circumstances often teach us that our natural instincts and authentic selves are wrong, which can result in anxiety, self-criticism/judgement, meaninglessness and depression.
(503) 676-5292 View (503) 676-5292
Photo of Alyssa M. (Kennedy) Purk, Counselor in Portland, OR
Alyssa M. (Kennedy) Purk
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086
By living meaningfully in the present you can learn to break free from past experiences, trauma, and concerns for the future. Living with intention encourages you to act with purpose and passion for your own benefit and the benefit of society. Trauma, stress, fear, depression, and anxiety can be debilitating. If you are reading this you have recognized that either you or someone you care about may need help navigating the unprecedented life events. As your counselor, I want to help you explore who you are, find what is meaningful to you, and assist you in learning the tools that will help you live life to the fullest.
By living meaningfully in the present you can learn to break free from past experiences, trauma, and concerns for the future. Living with intention encourages you to act with purpose and passion for your own benefit and the benefit of society. Trauma, stress, fear, depression, and anxiety can be debilitating. If you are reading this you have recognized that either you or someone you care about may need help navigating the unprecedented life events. As your counselor, I want to help you explore who you are, find what is meaningful to you, and assist you in learning the tools that will help you live life to the fullest.
(360) 276-6153 View (360) 276-6153
Photo of Judy P Chang, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Judy P Chang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201  (Online Only)
I have offices in Redmond, WA and Portland, OR. I'm licensed in NY, OR, WA, currently inactive status in HI and CA but willing to activate HI. I do double sessions and am practicing virtually only. Treatment is very focused, short term, holistic therapy for a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions and relationships. I work with families, couples or individuals of all ages.
I have offices in Redmond, WA and Portland, OR. I'm licensed in NY, OR, WA, currently inactive status in HI and CA but willing to activate HI. I do double sessions and am practicing virtually only. Treatment is very focused, short term, holistic therapy for a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions and relationships. I work with families, couples or individuals of all ages.
(831) 238-0416 View (831) 238-0416
Photo of Greg Arbo, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Greg Arbo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to work with teen boys and their parents, adult men, and couples. I focus on supporting teen boys in better understanding and navigating their thoughts and feelings; involving parents is always an option. My specialities in my work adult men involve high-functioning anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, and/or depression. My skill in working with all clients on enhancing their relationships serves my couples work nicely; I focus on how a couple experiences emotion, on verbal and non-verbal communication, and on enriching closeness and intimacy.
It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to work with teen boys and their parents, adult men, and couples. I focus on supporting teen boys in better understanding and navigating their thoughts and feelings; involving parents is always an option. My specialities in my work adult men involve high-functioning anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, and/or depression. My skill in working with all clients on enhancing their relationships serves my couples work nicely; I focus on how a couple experiences emotion, on verbal and non-verbal communication, and on enriching closeness and intimacy.
(971) 276-1041 View (971) 276-1041
Photo of Kathryn Bereman-Skelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kathryn Bereman-Skelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling challenged by motherhood? As a therapist who specializes in maternal mental health, I help you process and cope with the stress, anxiety, and overwhelm that surfaces during the parenting years. Relationship concerns, career transitions, exceptional children, even coping with loneliness are all common counseling topics. With very little time to process complex feelings, these issues can lead to anxiety, ambivalence, anger, even grief. I give women the space to explore their very real feelings, while fostering confidence in, and compassion for, themselves through this intense season of life.
Are you feeling challenged by motherhood? As a therapist who specializes in maternal mental health, I help you process and cope with the stress, anxiety, and overwhelm that surfaces during the parenting years. Relationship concerns, career transitions, exceptional children, even coping with loneliness are all common counseling topics. With very little time to process complex feelings, these issues can lead to anxiety, ambivalence, anger, even grief. I give women the space to explore their very real feelings, while fostering confidence in, and compassion for, themselves through this intense season of life.
(971) 234-9531 View (971) 234-9531
Photo of Bill Maier, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Bill Maier, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
"When you come into therapy it is a time to expand the sense of yourself. Our job is to get familiar with the values that have helped you get through difficult situations and use them now. You may be a combat veteran, mental health or law enforcement worker having family or relationship problems. You need clear and practical strategies for replacing automatic reactions with mindful responses. Feeling understood by another human being is useful for flexible problem solving and clarifying your values. The majority of my experience is working with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD will definitely get better with knowledgeable treatment."
"When you come into therapy it is a time to expand the sense of yourself. Our job is to get familiar with the values that have helped you get through difficult situations and use them now. You may be a combat veteran, mental health or law enforcement worker having family or relationship problems. You need clear and practical strategies for replacing automatic reactions with mindful responses. Feeling understood by another human being is useful for flexible problem solving and clarifying your values. The majority of my experience is working with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD will definitely get better with knowledgeable treatment."
(503) 832-5987 View (503) 832-5987
Photo of Patrick Bartos, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Patrick Bartos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My aim is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore your problems without being judged. Once we have established a working relationship built on mutual trust, honesty, and respect, my goals are to help you better understand your problems, identify obstacles that have inhibited your capacity for growth, and support you in the process of making positive and often times difficult life changes. With the right therapist you should expect to feel more alive and authentic, be able to seek out and sustain more fulfilling relationships, and gain increased levels of self-acceptance and confidence.
My aim is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore your problems without being judged. Once we have established a working relationship built on mutual trust, honesty, and respect, my goals are to help you better understand your problems, identify obstacles that have inhibited your capacity for growth, and support you in the process of making positive and often times difficult life changes. With the right therapist you should expect to feel more alive and authentic, be able to seek out and sustain more fulfilling relationships, and gain increased levels of self-acceptance and confidence.
(971) 233-6275 View (971) 233-6275
Photo of Grace Spring, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Grace Spring
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I incorporate several therapeutic modalities into my work including Gestalt therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, humanistic and existential theories, and somatic psychotherapy. The process of therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Together, we will explore which approaches feel most resonant for you. Therapy is a process of co-creation between client and therapist. I will bring my most present, grounded, authentic, and compassionate self to session. I am skilled in listening deeply and embodying what Carl Rogers called ‘unconditional positive regard’, a profound acceptance of you, however you are, in this moment.
I incorporate several therapeutic modalities into my work including Gestalt therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, humanistic and existential theories, and somatic psychotherapy. The process of therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Together, we will explore which approaches feel most resonant for you. Therapy is a process of co-creation between client and therapist. I will bring my most present, grounded, authentic, and compassionate self to session. I am skilled in listening deeply and embodying what Carl Rogers called ‘unconditional positive regard’, a profound acceptance of you, however you are, in this moment.
(971) 396-3192 View (971) 396-3192
Photo of Christopher Lee Creaturo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Christopher Lee Creaturo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I work with clients to offer serious relief from the effects of trauma, depression and anxiety on their lives. Tools like EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a judgement-free space to talk can bring hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and finally allow us to be present in our own lives again. Finding relief can feel like taking a first deep breath after being underwater for a long time, and that's an outcome worth fighting together for. Please email to learn more and find our if we make a good therapy team.
I work with clients to offer serious relief from the effects of trauma, depression and anxiety on their lives. Tools like EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a judgement-free space to talk can bring hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and finally allow us to be present in our own lives again. Finding relief can feel like taking a first deep breath after being underwater for a long time, and that's an outcome worth fighting together for. Please email to learn more and find our if we make a good therapy team.
(458) 217-6034 View (458) 217-6034
Photo of William Hamel, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
William Hamel
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I work with people who may be struggling to feel present in their life, or feel unable to enact their values for immediate and long term goals. Often, these struggles stem from things outside our control like past traumatic experiences and systematic oppression. In my collaborative approach to therapy, we will refocus on the experiences, decisions, and actions within your control to move your life in the direction you want it to go. My experiences includes working with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, anger, addictions, and life transitions.
I work with people who may be struggling to feel present in their life, or feel unable to enact their values for immediate and long term goals. Often, these struggles stem from things outside our control like past traumatic experiences and systematic oppression. In my collaborative approach to therapy, we will refocus on the experiences, decisions, and actions within your control to move your life in the direction you want it to go. My experiences includes working with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, anger, addictions, and life transitions.
(971) 290-1138 View (971) 290-1138
Photo of Catherine Lazen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Catherine Lazen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
While the focus of my training and experience is children and couples/families, I love working with individuals of all ages. I help my clients overcome and manage mental health challenges, issues associated with ASD, grief/trauma, relationship/family conflict, behavioral difficulties, life change, career planning and issues associated with identity. As a former educator, I am particularly skilled at differentiating therapeutic interventions to fit individuals to suit their needs. And, I can help parents advocate for the educational needs of their children and provide social/emotional skills training to children and adults.
While the focus of my training and experience is children and couples/families, I love working with individuals of all ages. I help my clients overcome and manage mental health challenges, issues associated with ASD, grief/trauma, relationship/family conflict, behavioral difficulties, life change, career planning and issues associated with identity. As a former educator, I am particularly skilled at differentiating therapeutic interventions to fit individuals to suit their needs. And, I can help parents advocate for the educational needs of their children and provide social/emotional skills training to children and adults.
(503) 706-0560 View (503) 706-0560
Photo of Catherine M Saunders, Counselor in Portland, OR
Catherine M Saunders
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Waitlist for new clients
I am partnering with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. Please call 971-352-6971 or email highlands@mindfulsupport services.com. I believe every person has natural healing abilities and wisdom. My role is to help clients determine their way to growth, healing, positive action and improvement of life quality through relationship with self and others. I base my work on theories from Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Family Systems Therapies to carve the therapy that works personally for each client.
I am partnering with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. Please call 971-352-6971 or email highlands@mindfulsupport services.com. I believe every person has natural healing abilities and wisdom. My role is to help clients determine their way to growth, healing, positive action and improvement of life quality through relationship with self and others. I base my work on theories from Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Family Systems Therapies to carve the therapy that works personally for each client.
(971) 306-4938 View (971) 306-4938
Photo of Fatema Rashid, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Fatema Rashid
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Accepting new clients! I believe that darkness is an opportunity to find our true light. Book today to discover your own truth. I see clients who are experiencing attachment wounds, past traumatic experiences, grief, and who want a new way to approach their healing. The journey towards self-discovery if often accompanied by pain and loneliness. We may feel overwhelmed by emotions and get stuck in unhealthy patterns that we struggle to recognize. We need someone who will sit with us in our pain and darkness without judgment. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for all individuals to explore their emotions.
Accepting new clients! I believe that darkness is an opportunity to find our true light. Book today to discover your own truth. I see clients who are experiencing attachment wounds, past traumatic experiences, grief, and who want a new way to approach their healing. The journey towards self-discovery if often accompanied by pain and loneliness. We may feel overwhelmed by emotions and get stuck in unhealthy patterns that we struggle to recognize. We need someone who will sit with us in our pain and darkness without judgment. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for all individuals to explore their emotions.
(503) 300-6413 View (503) 300-6413
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.