Photo of Erin Blache, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Erin Blache
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I work with folks anywhere in PA and have 15+ years of experience in treating OCD, trauma, and stressors around pregnancy, birth, and parenting, especially birth trauma and postpartum intrusive thoughts. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence-based approach that emphasizes compassion, connection, and flexibility and harnesses what matters most to us to guide our goals and actions amidst the hard stuff of life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Behavior Analyst, I also support parents supporting their children across development, OCD, anxiety, neurodivergence, and other needs.
I work with folks anywhere in PA and have 15+ years of experience in treating OCD, trauma, and stressors around pregnancy, birth, and parenting, especially birth trauma and postpartum intrusive thoughts. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence-based approach that emphasizes compassion, connection, and flexibility and harnesses what matters most to us to guide our goals and actions amidst the hard stuff of life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Behavior Analyst, I also support parents supporting their children across development, OCD, anxiety, neurodivergence, and other needs.
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Photo of Valerie Bojarski, Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Valerie Bojarski
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I have worked with survivors of domestic violence, people experiencing mood disorders, OCD, and survivors of trauma.
Fred Rogers says, "Anything that's human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary." I would love to work with you if you are ready to make your problems mentionable, and together we can work towards making them manageable.
I have worked with survivors of domestic violence, people experiencing mood disorders, OCD, and survivors of trauma.
Fred Rogers says, "Anything that's human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary." I would love to work with you if you are ready to make your problems mentionable, and together we can work towards making them manageable.
(412) 528-6221 View (412) 528-6221
Photo of Bethany McLaughlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Bethany McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or OCD, stuck in patterns of perfectionism, or facing significant life changes? Whether you’re a college student navigating a multitude of pressures, a new parent adjusting to life changes, a professional in a career transition, or simply someone dealing with the everyday stresses of life in a world full of them, I’m here to offer support and help you find balance.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or OCD, stuck in patterns of perfectionism, or facing significant life changes? Whether you’re a college student navigating a multitude of pressures, a new parent adjusting to life changes, a professional in a career transition, or simply someone dealing with the everyday stresses of life in a world full of them, I’m here to offer support and help you find balance.
(412) 328-2630 View (412) 328-2630
Photo of Angela Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Angela Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Angela has experience working with a wide range of clients; however, she has spent the past 6 years working with clients of all ages experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and oppositional defiance disorder.
Angela Mills is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor's of Science from Penn State University and a Master's of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Angela started in the mental health field 16 years ago. She decided she wanted to be a therapist in high school, when she experienced the loss of someone very close to her that changed how she looked at the world. Angela had a therapist at the time that helped her through that loss and had a huge impact on her life. That is when Angela knew she wanted to be a therapist.
Angela has experience working with a wide range of clients; however, she has spent the past 6 years working with clients of all ages experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and oppositional defiance disorder.
Angela Mills is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor's of Science from Penn State University and a Master's of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Angela started in the mental health field 16 years ago. She decided she wanted to be a therapist in high school, when she experienced the loss of someone very close to her that changed how she looked at the world. Angela had a therapist at the time that helped her through that loss and had a huge impact on her life. That is when Angela knew she wanted to be a therapist.
(844) 264-6945 View (844) 264-6945
Photo of Rebecca Pollack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Rebecca Pollack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I have many years of experience working with adolescents and their families, adults, and couples throughout a variety of life stages. I am passionate about treating women who are struggling with infertility, postpartum depression, anxiety and/or OCD as well as other transitional issues that can occur throughout the perinatal period. I also work with individuals dealing with general depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder.
I have many years of experience working with adolescents and their families, adults, and couples throughout a variety of life stages. I am passionate about treating women who are struggling with infertility, postpartum depression, anxiety and/or OCD as well as other transitional issues that can occur throughout the perinatal period. I also work with individuals dealing with general depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder.
(412) 912-2840 View (412) 912-2840
Photo of LeeAnna Marra, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
LeeAnna Marra
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples navigating a range of reproductive mental health issues, including but not limited to: infertility, abortion, challenges across pregnancy, early parenting support, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, reproductive grief and loss, and reproductive trauma. I also offer general life transition, anxiety, grief, trauma, neurodivergent support, and LGBTQIA+ support to teens and adults.
I work with individuals and couples navigating a range of reproductive mental health issues, including but not limited to: infertility, abortion, challenges across pregnancy, early parenting support, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, reproductive grief and loss, and reproductive trauma. I also offer general life transition, anxiety, grief, trauma, neurodivergent support, and LGBTQIA+ support to teens and adults.
(724) 932-6185 View (724) 932-6185
Photo of Ann Frerotte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Ann Frerotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have training and experience with pregnant and postpartum people, life transitions, depression, anxiety, menopause and midlife issues and OCD.
It is powerful, life changing and brave when we take steps toward understanding ourselves and how we interact with the world around us. At first this can sound daunting but with a solid set of tools and healthy introspection and exploration, this is a superpower. This is where our freedom lies. Things in life are often not clearly delineated. Oftentimes, we judge ourselves harshly and feel like we can’t move ahead. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help you weather life's ups and downs while developing self-compassion.
I have training and experience with pregnant and postpartum people, life transitions, depression, anxiety, menopause and midlife issues and OCD.
It is powerful, life changing and brave when we take steps toward understanding ourselves and how we interact with the world around us. At first this can sound daunting but with a solid set of tools and healthy introspection and exploration, this is a superpower. This is where our freedom lies. Things in life are often not clearly delineated. Oftentimes, we judge ourselves harshly and feel like we can’t move ahead. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help you weather life's ups and downs while developing self-compassion.
(412) 910-1053 View (412) 910-1053
Photo of Dr. Cydney V. Quinn in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn
PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn is a doctoral-level psychologist who conducts neuropsychological and psychological evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, specific learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., borderline, etc), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn is a doctoral-level psychologist who conducts neuropsychological and psychological evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, specific learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., borderline, etc), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
(412) 447-5306 View (412) 447-5306
Photo of Heal With Creativity LLC, Art Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Heal With Creativity LLC
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
Everyone doesn't think or feel in the same way, we all have our own journey and our own way of experiencing life obstacles. As a licensed and board certified Art Therapist, as well as Licensed Professional Counselor, I will help guide you and your family through your process of healing using creative approaches tailored to fit your specific needs. I have over 20 years of experience working with Autism, developmental and learning disabilities, and behavioral issues. My other specialties include Anxiety, Oppositional behavior, Reactive Attachment, OCD and Trauma in children, adolescents, and adults.
Everyone doesn't think or feel in the same way, we all have our own journey and our own way of experiencing life obstacles. As a licensed and board certified Art Therapist, as well as Licensed Professional Counselor, I will help guide you and your family through your process of healing using creative approaches tailored to fit your specific needs. I have over 20 years of experience working with Autism, developmental and learning disabilities, and behavioral issues. My other specialties include Anxiety, Oppositional behavior, Reactive Attachment, OCD and Trauma in children, adolescents, and adults.
(724) 292-7009 View (724) 292-7009
Photo of Melissa Smiley Jacobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Melissa Smiley Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I have clinical expertise working with individuals struggling with OCD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sensory Processing Disorders, Life Transitions, Grief, Trauma, Women’s Issues, Dating & Intimacy, Marital Distress, and Parenting Challenges.
If you’re looking for a therapist, you're ready for something in your life to change. Are you tired of trying to figure things out on your own? Are you struggling with your important relationships? Do the people you usually turn to for guidance no longer seem to know how to help? Whatever brought you to this point, your regular ways of making yourself feel better are no longer enough to restore your peace of mind. You don’t need to deal with all of that alone.
I have clinical expertise working with individuals struggling with OCD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sensory Processing Disorders, Life Transitions, Grief, Trauma, Women’s Issues, Dating & Intimacy, Marital Distress, and Parenting Challenges.
If you’re looking for a therapist, you're ready for something in your life to change. Are you tired of trying to figure things out on your own? Are you struggling with your important relationships? Do the people you usually turn to for guidance no longer seem to know how to help? Whatever brought you to this point, your regular ways of making yourself feel better are no longer enough to restore your peace of mind. You don’t need to deal with all of that alone.
(878) 203-1823 View (878) 203-1823
Photo of Dr. Lauren E. Barrett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Lauren E. Barrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I have experience working with people with autism, OCD, depression, and personality disorders.
Becoming a parent and/or experiencing traumatic loss are some of the most complex life events one can have. This change can evoke unexpected conflicting emotions, fears and uncertainty, a new identity, and relational stress. My focus is to therapeutically support mothers during pregnancy, postpartum, and reproductive health experiences including infertility/treatments, birth trauma, miscarriages, and loss. My clinical approach is grounded in combining trauma-informed evidence-based practices, the expressive arts, and knowledge of perinatal mental health to individualize patient care during this delicate time.
Additionally, I have experience working with people with autism, OCD, depression, and personality disorders.
Becoming a parent and/or experiencing traumatic loss are some of the most complex life events one can have. This change can evoke unexpected conflicting emotions, fears and uncertainty, a new identity, and relational stress. My focus is to therapeutically support mothers during pregnancy, postpartum, and reproductive health experiences including infertility/treatments, birth trauma, miscarriages, and loss. My clinical approach is grounded in combining trauma-informed evidence-based practices, the expressive arts, and knowledge of perinatal mental health to individualize patient care during this delicate time.
(412) 981-1770 x555 View (412) 981-1770 x555
Photo of Jannette Travali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jannette Travali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
(724) 320-1816 View (724) 320-1816
Photo of Monica L Walsh, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Monica L Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh who treats adults across the lifespan. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with individuals on a wide range of issues and concerns. I have particular experience working with difficulties related to anxiety, stress, and physical health (including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, coping with chronic pain and illness, coping with life transitions, sleep difficulties).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh who treats adults across the lifespan. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with individuals on a wide range of issues and concerns. I have particular experience working with difficulties related to anxiety, stress, and physical health (including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, coping with chronic pain and illness, coping with life transitions, sleep difficulties).
(412) 802-9514 View (412) 802-9514
Photo of AIBDT Psychological Services, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
AIBDT Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Associates in Behavioral Diagnostics and Treatment is a group practice with locations in Moon Township, Robinson Twp, Carnegie and North Hills. Because many of our clients are professionals with busy schedules, our practice is open 7 days a week offering both daytime and evening hours. There are clinicians who work with general mental health issues (anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress management, Women's health, grief, adjustment) as well as specialists in Child Development/Autism, OCD, Behavioral Medicine, and Family Therapy.
Associates in Behavioral Diagnostics and Treatment is a group practice with locations in Moon Township, Robinson Twp, Carnegie and North Hills. Because many of our clients are professionals with busy schedules, our practice is open 7 days a week offering both daytime and evening hours. There are clinicians who work with general mental health issues (anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress management, Women's health, grief, adjustment) as well as specialists in Child Development/Autism, OCD, Behavioral Medicine, and Family Therapy.
(412) 246-8537 View (412) 246-8537
Photo of Beatrice Desir in Pittsburgh, PA
Beatrice Desir
DO
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Dr. Desir is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate training at The University of Scranton followed by medical school at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Nassau University Medical Center where she served as the Administrative Chief Resident in her final year. Dr. Desir has been in practice for 4 years and has provided patients with compassionate psychiatric care. She is experienced in treating various psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
Dr. Desir is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate training at The University of Scranton followed by medical school at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Nassau University Medical Center where she served as the Administrative Chief Resident in her final year. Dr. Desir has been in practice for 4 years and has provided patients with compassionate psychiatric care. She is experienced in treating various psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
(267) 361-2038 View (267) 361-2038
Photo of Angela Anderson, Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Angela Anderson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Angela, and I have been working in a private practice setting now for 5 years, and prior was in a community mental health setting for 3 years. I have extensive experience working with all traumas across the lifespan (including veterans), as well as co-occuring / substance abuse disorders and gambling disorders. I also have helped many with anxiety and OCD over come their battles with specific techniques i've been trained in! If you're ready to start the process, please reach out! I look forward to working with you!
Hello! My name is Angela, and I have been working in a private practice setting now for 5 years, and prior was in a community mental health setting for 3 years. I have extensive experience working with all traumas across the lifespan (including veterans), as well as co-occuring / substance abuse disorders and gambling disorders. I also have helped many with anxiety and OCD over come their battles with specific techniques i've been trained in! If you're ready to start the process, please reach out! I look forward to working with you!
(484) 263-8245 View (484) 263-8245
Photo of Olivia Murrin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Olivia Murrin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15215  (Online Only)
As I feel called to compassionately serve others through therapy, I am eager to hear their story and spend time processing what that means to them. Everyone has their own unique situation and journey they have been on, and with that we can collaboratively find coping skills, practical goals, and help make sense of what they have been going through. Although being vulnerable in therapy may not always be easy, we can work at a comfortable pace in hopes of healing. Anyone who has the willingness and desire can benefit from therapy. It is my hope they may learn to increase self-awareness to live a better version of themselves.
As I feel called to compassionately serve others through therapy, I am eager to hear their story and spend time processing what that means to them. Everyone has their own unique situation and journey they have been on, and with that we can collaboratively find coping skills, practical goals, and help make sense of what they have been going through. Although being vulnerable in therapy may not always be easy, we can work at a comfortable pace in hopes of healing. Anyone who has the willingness and desire can benefit from therapy. It is my hope they may learn to increase self-awareness to live a better version of themselves.
(717) 931-6606 View (717) 931-6606
Photo of Monet Sulkowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Monet Sulkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
My practice is based on the belief in the strength and resilience within all people, even in life's most trying times. Right now you may be feeling overwhelmed, lost, or disconnected from what is meaningful to you. As a therapist, my role is in reconnecting my clients with what they value, and building a life that aligns with those values.
My practice is based on the belief in the strength and resilience within all people, even in life's most trying times. Right now you may be feeling overwhelmed, lost, or disconnected from what is meaningful to you. As a therapist, my role is in reconnecting my clients with what they value, and building a life that aligns with those values.
(412) 214-8806 View (412) 214-8806
Photo of Deja Wofford, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Deja Wofford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
You're tired of feeling like your experiences are minimized and being told you're "using it as an excuse." You're mentally and physically exhausted from always feeling "other". You want to FINALLY be able to open up and talk about ALL of the pieces of your life because you can't continue carrying all of this shit around, but you're terrified of being judged. You know you engage in unhealthy patterns of behavior and self-talk, but you just can't seem to stop. You have "checked off the box" that you're "in therapy" in the past, but you need to do something different this time.
You're tired of feeling like your experiences are minimized and being told you're "using it as an excuse." You're mentally and physically exhausted from always feeling "other". You want to FINALLY be able to open up and talk about ALL of the pieces of your life because you can't continue carrying all of this shit around, but you're terrified of being judged. You know you engage in unhealthy patterns of behavior and self-talk, but you just can't seem to stop. You have "checked off the box" that you're "in therapy" in the past, but you need to do something different this time.
(412) 218-3007 View (412) 218-3007
Photo of Jennifer Ruth Rozell-Whitaker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jennifer Ruth Rozell-Whitaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Choosing to start therapy takes courage. It's not easy to look within one's self and challenge yourself to change. In our work together, I will support you in your journey towards personal growth, discovery and change. As an Art Therapist, I believe that engaging in the art process has a powerful way of touching the deepest aspects of one's soul. Through creative approaches in therapy, you can connect authentically with yourself and thrive. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I can help each person use the process to grow.
Choosing to start therapy takes courage. It's not easy to look within one's self and challenge yourself to change. In our work together, I will support you in your journey towards personal growth, discovery and change. As an Art Therapist, I believe that engaging in the art process has a powerful way of touching the deepest aspects of one's soul. Through creative approaches in therapy, you can connect authentically with yourself and thrive. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I can help each person use the process to grow.
(878) 768-7027 View (878) 768-7027
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.