Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Houston, TX

Photo of Houston OCD & Anxiety, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Houston, TX
Houston OCD & Anxiety
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
Hi, my name is Keaton Soileau and at Houston OCD and Anxiety, under the supervision of Saharah Shrout, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, I specialize in helping adolescents and young adults with OCD and anxiety improve their overall quality of life and functioning. My ideal client is simply one that is committed to treatment and willing to work collaboratively towards their own unique goals. I provide individual one on one sessions in person and online, as well as intensive outpatient therapy (multiple or extended sessions per week) for those seeking a higher level of care.
Hi, my name is Keaton Soileau and at Houston OCD and Anxiety, under the supervision of Saharah Shrout, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, I specialize in helping adolescents and young adults with OCD and anxiety improve their overall quality of life and functioning. My ideal client is simply one that is committed to treatment and willing to work collaboratively towards their own unique goals. I provide individual one on one sessions in person and online, as well as intensive outpatient therapy (multiple or extended sessions per week) for those seeking a higher level of care.
(346) 707-3049 View (346) 707-3049
Photo of Ashley Hinck, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Ashley Hinck
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
I'm a psychotherapist who specializes in treating adults suffering from anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, emerging adulthood, and life transitions. I pride myself on being compassionate, yet direct and solution-focused.
I'm a psychotherapist who specializes in treating adults suffering from anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, emerging adulthood, and life transitions. I pride myself on being compassionate, yet direct and solution-focused.
(832) 662-0731 View (832) 662-0731
Photo of Angela Smith, Psychologist in Houston, TX
Angela Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027
Houston is fortunate to have many wonderful psychologists and mental health providers. Establishing a therapeutic relationship that is a good fit is important, as the work of therapy can be challenging and sometimes painful (in addition to being meaningful and fulfilling!). I specialize in the treatment of anxiety-based disorders and primarily work with individuals with OCD, PTSD, generalized anxiety (worry), social phobia, and perfectionism. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and exposure-based treatment to help individuals improve the way they relate to themselves and the world around them.
Houston is fortunate to have many wonderful psychologists and mental health providers. Establishing a therapeutic relationship that is a good fit is important, as the work of therapy can be challenging and sometimes painful (in addition to being meaningful and fulfilling!). I specialize in the treatment of anxiety-based disorders and primarily work with individuals with OCD, PTSD, generalized anxiety (worry), social phobia, and perfectionism. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and exposure-based treatment to help individuals improve the way they relate to themselves and the world around them.
(713) 497-1975 View (713) 497-1975
Photo of Hannah Sommer Garza, Psychologist in Houston, TX
Hannah Sommer Garza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77063
I am a licensed psychologist with training in evidence-based treatments for children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety (generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, panic), trichotillomania (hair-pulling), excoriation (skin-picking), OCD, and tic disorders. I have a special interest in helping individuals navigate the challenges that often come with adolescence and young adulthood. I also provide psychoeducational testing for children (age 5+), adolescents, and adults.
I am a licensed psychologist with training in evidence-based treatments for children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety (generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, panic), trichotillomania (hair-pulling), excoriation (skin-picking), OCD, and tic disorders. I have a special interest in helping individuals navigate the challenges that often come with adolescence and young adulthood. I also provide psychoeducational testing for children (age 5+), adolescents, and adults.
(281) 920-1854 View (281) 920-1854
Photo of Eeva Edds, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Eeva Edds
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, PTSD, and anxiety disorders, such as phobias. My clients often struggle with intrusive thoughts that keep them stuck in a cycle of avoidance, rumination, and compulsive behavior. I offer a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore past trauma and current triggers. It is my utmost priority to utilize evidence-based psychological interventions to help my clients move from avoidance towards a value-driven life. I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I also offer peer consultations.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, PTSD, and anxiety disorders, such as phobias. My clients often struggle with intrusive thoughts that keep them stuck in a cycle of avoidance, rumination, and compulsive behavior. I offer a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore past trauma and current triggers. It is my utmost priority to utilize evidence-based psychological interventions to help my clients move from avoidance towards a value-driven life. I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I also offer peer consultations.
(346) 245-5122 x4 View (346) 245-5122 x4
Photo of Madeline Vaughn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Madeline Vaughn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77063
I specialize in working with clients navigating anxiety, perfectionism and OCD or OCD-related experiences. Many of my clients outwardly appear to have it all figured out, but internally the dialogue looks different. Thoughts like, "I'm not feeling like myself" might feel central. My passion in this work is to support you in finding whatever it is you are seeking, greater insight, some ways to do it different or maybe something else to be discovered. I believe in therapeutic work that supports not only with insight, but also skills work to assist you in making lasting and sustainable change in alignment with your needs and wants.
I specialize in working with clients navigating anxiety, perfectionism and OCD or OCD-related experiences. Many of my clients outwardly appear to have it all figured out, but internally the dialogue looks different. Thoughts like, "I'm not feeling like myself" might feel central. My passion in this work is to support you in finding whatever it is you are seeking, greater insight, some ways to do it different or maybe something else to be discovered. I believe in therapeutic work that supports not only with insight, but also skills work to assist you in making lasting and sustainable change in alignment with your needs and wants.
(281) 377-0819 View (281) 377-0819
Photo of Houston Center for Valued Living, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Houston Center for Valued Living
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
Feeling stuck? Want to make a change but not sure how to start? We're here to assist you! Life's a journey, and sometimes we face challenges that can interrupt it with stress and tough times. These challenges might come as OCD, depression, or anxiety. No matter what they look like, they can hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. And we can help you get back to living the life that you desire.
Feeling stuck? Want to make a change but not sure how to start? We're here to assist you! Life's a journey, and sometimes we face challenges that can interrupt it with stress and tough times. These challenges might come as OCD, depression, or anxiety. No matter what they look like, they can hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. And we can help you get back to living the life that you desire.
(713) 965-4215 View (713) 965-4215
Photo of Veronica Siffert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Veronica Siffert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
I have specialized training in CBT, ACT, ERP and CPT, which are effective treatments for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, relationship difficulties and stress management.
Are you feeling stuck and struggling to experience happiness and joy? Perhaps pain from the past or worries about the future are getting in the way of living the life you want. Seeking help is a courageous first step. Therapy is an opportunity to receive support and the necessary tools to help live your life to its fullest potential while engaging in the things that matter most to you. Therapy with me is a collaborative process and by working together we can identify areas that are causing you difficulty and develop personalized treatment goals. I provide a safe and supportive environment that fosters change and personal growth.
I have specialized training in CBT, ACT, ERP and CPT, which are effective treatments for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, relationship difficulties and stress management.
Are you feeling stuck and struggling to experience happiness and joy? Perhaps pain from the past or worries about the future are getting in the way of living the life you want. Seeking help is a courageous first step. Therapy is an opportunity to receive support and the necessary tools to help live your life to its fullest potential while engaging in the things that matter most to you. Therapy with me is a collaborative process and by working together we can identify areas that are causing you difficulty and develop personalized treatment goals. I provide a safe and supportive environment that fosters change and personal growth.
(832) 730-2497 View (832) 730-2497
Photo of Ehrin Weiss, Psychologist in Houston, TX
Ehrin Weiss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Has anxiety or OCD hijacked your life? Do you find yourself making choices based on how to avoid or minimize feelings of anxiety, rather than what you really want to do or think you’ll enjoy? Do you wish you could just live your life without constantly worrying? Living with anxiety or OCD can be exhausting! Maybe you feel trapped, but you’re ready to take control of your life back. You’re ready to overcome these challenges and feel more confident and at peace. And you're looking for someone who understands what you're going through and can give you tools to help you accomplish this.
Has anxiety or OCD hijacked your life? Do you find yourself making choices based on how to avoid or minimize feelings of anxiety, rather than what you really want to do or think you’ll enjoy? Do you wish you could just live your life without constantly worrying? Living with anxiety or OCD can be exhausting! Maybe you feel trapped, but you’re ready to take control of your life back. You’re ready to overcome these challenges and feel more confident and at peace. And you're looking for someone who understands what you're going through and can give you tools to help you accomplish this.
(713) 636-5371 View (713) 636-5371
Photo of Elizabeth McIngvale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Elizabeth McIngvale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders, working with patients who range in symptom severity and are looking for effective treatment to learn how to manage their OCD, anxiety and related symptoms.
I specialize in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders, working with patients who range in symptom severity and are looking for effective treatment to learn how to manage their OCD, anxiety and related symptoms.
(281) 800-3019 View (281) 800-3019
Photo of Jennifer Alexander, Psychologist in Houston, TX
Jennifer Alexander
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
Consistent with my commitment to providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive spectrum conditions, I specialize in utilizing behavioral and cognitive-behavioral treatments.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have particular training, expertise, and experience in providing evidence-based treatment for Tourette's/tic disorders, hair-pulling, skin-picking, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobias). I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults.
Consistent with my commitment to providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive spectrum conditions, I specialize in utilizing behavioral and cognitive-behavioral treatments.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have particular training, expertise, and experience in providing evidence-based treatment for Tourette's/tic disorders, hair-pulling, skin-picking, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobias). I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults.
(346) 239-8189 View (346) 239-8189
Photo of Philip Buchanan Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Philip Buchanan Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006
His clinical areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, developmental trauma, adoption issues, chemical dependency, stress management, and life transitions.
Philip works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. When working with adolescents who are struggling with independence and autonomy, Philip helps them explore and identify their true potential. This work often surrounds addictions and special occasion adoption issues. His work with adult clients facing life’s challenges focuses on relationship with self and others, as well as providing a safe space for accurate reflection.
His clinical areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, developmental trauma, adoption issues, chemical dependency, stress management, and life transitions.
Philip works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. When working with adolescents who are struggling with independence and autonomy, Philip helps them explore and identify their true potential. This work often surrounds addictions and special occasion adoption issues. His work with adult clients facing life’s challenges focuses on relationship with self and others, as well as providing a safe space for accurate reflection.
(281) 231-9895 View (281) 231-9895
Photo of Melissa Fasteau, Psychologist in Houston, TX
Melissa Fasteau
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
I have experience treating OCD and anxiety disorders in residential treatment, intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization, and outpatient settings.
Do you desire freedom from obsessive thoughts? Are you trapped in a loop of worries, feel anxious, or find yourself stuck repeating behaviors that prevent you from living your best life? Recovery is possible. I am a licensed psychologist specialized in evidence-based treatments for OCD and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and body-focused repetitive behaviors. I have expertise in evidence-based treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and comprehensive behavioral model (ComB). I treat adolescents, adults and those with autism spectrum disorder.
I have experience treating OCD and anxiety disorders in residential treatment, intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization, and outpatient settings.
Do you desire freedom from obsessive thoughts? Are you trapped in a loop of worries, feel anxious, or find yourself stuck repeating behaviors that prevent you from living your best life? Recovery is possible. I am a licensed psychologist specialized in evidence-based treatments for OCD and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and body-focused repetitive behaviors. I have expertise in evidence-based treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and comprehensive behavioral model (ComB). I treat adolescents, adults and those with autism spectrum disorder.
(713) 424-8188 View (713) 424-8188
Photo of April Kitchens, LCSW; Therapist , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
April Kitchens, LCSW; Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ERP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues and more.
Anxiety, depression and struggles from life challenges is not uncommon. I use modalities such as Exposure Therapy (ERP), ACT and CBT to help you get your life back. So why do we make it so uncommon to reach out for help? You no longer have to wait to feel "normal" again. Hi, My name is April Kitchens, LCSW and I am here to be the support that you need. I have 11 plus years of experience working with adults, children and adolescence who are in need of support in challenging situations such as OCD, Anxiety, depression and more. Weeknight and Weekend scheduling available.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues and more.
Anxiety, depression and struggles from life challenges is not uncommon. I use modalities such as Exposure Therapy (ERP), ACT and CBT to help you get your life back. So why do we make it so uncommon to reach out for help? You no longer have to wait to feel "normal" again. Hi, My name is April Kitchens, LCSW and I am here to be the support that you need. I have 11 plus years of experience working with adults, children and adolescence who are in need of support in challenging situations such as OCD, Anxiety, depression and more. Weeknight and Weekend scheduling available.
(346) 489-4965 View (346) 489-4965
Photo of Dr. Johann M. D'Souza, Psychologist in Houston, TX
Dr. Johann M. D'Souza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007
Are you a successful professional struggling with anxiety or OCD? You find yourself unable to stop worrying. You just want to control your emotions so you can enjoy life again. You know you're capable of excellence, but you feel stuck in a loop of avoidance, procrastination, and frustration. Nothing you’ve tried so far works, and you want to get rid of anxiety.
Are you a successful professional struggling with anxiety or OCD? You find yourself unable to stop worrying. You just want to control your emotions so you can enjoy life again. You know you're capable of excellence, but you feel stuck in a loop of avoidance, procrastination, and frustration. Nothing you’ve tried so far works, and you want to get rid of anxiety.
(832) 346-5853 View (832) 346-5853
Photo of Courtney Holbrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Courtney Holbrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating OCD, PTSD, BFRBs and Tics, using evidence-based treatments including Exposure and Response Prevention, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, HRT and the ComB model, and Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT).
It can be difficult to ask for help as we may feel embarrassed or uncomfortable being vulnerable. Asking for help requires strength and courage and may be a journey through both darkness and light. It is important to trust the process, sit with our uncomfortable feelings, and accept our emotions for what they are. Vulnerability, shame, and fear may make it difficult to share, but know this is normal as we navigate change. There is a lot to be learned from our dark times, and, as a therapist, I hope to be along side you in your journey of growth. Let's connect and unpack what you're struggling with.
I specialize in treating OCD, PTSD, BFRBs and Tics, using evidence-based treatments including Exposure and Response Prevention, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, HRT and the ComB model, and Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT).
It can be difficult to ask for help as we may feel embarrassed or uncomfortable being vulnerable. Asking for help requires strength and courage and may be a journey through both darkness and light. It is important to trust the process, sit with our uncomfortable feelings, and accept our emotions for what they are. Vulnerability, shame, and fear may make it difficult to share, but know this is normal as we navigate change. There is a lot to be learned from our dark times, and, as a therapist, I hope to be along side you in your journey of growth. Let's connect and unpack what you're struggling with.
(832) 551-1137 View (832) 551-1137
Photo of Dr. Tyson Reuter, Psychologist in Houston, TX
Dr. Tyson Reuter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77063
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in providing empirically-supported treatments for anxiety disorders, OCD, Tourette/tic disorders, panic, hair pulling, and LGBT health. I see patients across the developmental lifespan (childhood to adulthood), though have interest and expertise in working with adolescents, with more than half of my referrals being teenagers. My therapeutic approach is direct and active while also being supportive and warm. I've enjoyed working in a variety of treatment settings including hospitals, medical schools, inpatient psychiatric facilities, community clinics, and private practice.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in providing empirically-supported treatments for anxiety disorders, OCD, Tourette/tic disorders, panic, hair pulling, and LGBT health. I see patients across the developmental lifespan (childhood to adulthood), though have interest and expertise in working with adolescents, with more than half of my referrals being teenagers. My therapeutic approach is direct and active while also being supportive and warm. I've enjoyed working in a variety of treatment settings including hospitals, medical schools, inpatient psychiatric facilities, community clinics, and private practice.
(713) 766-5484 View (713) 766-5484
Photo of Lonnie D. Owen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Lonnie D. Owen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77070
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders (Post-Traumatic Stress, Panic Attacks, OCD, Social Anxiety, Phobias) and anxiety-related issues, like divorce, job loss, and trauma in an outpatient setting.
I look forward to addressing your needs through improving your coping skills and developing a more effective way of managing your life. I have a special interest in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder as well as spiritual issues and personality disorders. I have worked with clients on a variety of mental-health issues including anxiety, depression, chemical dependency, mood disorders, anger management, trauma and loss, and behavioral and impulse-control issues. My training is primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, and I am working toward certification in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders (Post-Traumatic Stress, Panic Attacks, OCD, Social Anxiety, Phobias) and anxiety-related issues, like divorce, job loss, and trauma in an outpatient setting.
I look forward to addressing your needs through improving your coping skills and developing a more effective way of managing your life. I have a special interest in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder as well as spiritual issues and personality disorders. I have worked with clients on a variety of mental-health issues including anxiety, depression, chemical dependency, mood disorders, anger management, trauma and loss, and behavioral and impulse-control issues. My training is primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, and I am working toward certification in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
(346) 220-3089 View (346) 220-3089
Photo of Online Virtual Therapy With Anna Cross LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Online Virtual Therapy With Anna Cross LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77008  (Online Only)
My primary specialties are anxiety (panic attacks, excessive worry, physical symptoms, sleep problems), OCD, depression, and trauma.
Do you keep worrying about the same things? Do you keep doing the same behavior over and over again no matter how hard you try to stop? Do you keep avoiding things that make you feel scared? I have seen how negative thought loops are related to many issues that affect our mood and behavior. Sometimes we can be stuck in these negative loops for days, weeks and even years affecting our relationships, social life, and work performance. With the help of therapy, you can learn how to develop a new set of skills to break out of these loops and move toward improving your overall wellbeing.
My primary specialties are anxiety (panic attacks, excessive worry, physical symptoms, sleep problems), OCD, depression, and trauma.
Do you keep worrying about the same things? Do you keep doing the same behavior over and over again no matter how hard you try to stop? Do you keep avoiding things that make you feel scared? I have seen how negative thought loops are related to many issues that affect our mood and behavior. Sometimes we can be stuck in these negative loops for days, weeks and even years affecting our relationships, social life, and work performance. With the help of therapy, you can learn how to develop a new set of skills to break out of these loops and move toward improving your overall wellbeing.
(713) 636-5375 View (713) 636-5375
Photo of Tanglewood Behavioral Health Group , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Tanglewood Behavioral Health Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057
We now offer Intensive Outpatient! All of our therapists are trained in CBT for obsessive compulsive disorder, mood disorders and Anxiety.
We are a diverse team of therapists with lived experience and extensive training, dedicated to providing the best, evidence-based care. If you're thinking of getting therapy, call us today for a free phone consultation. We have therapists who specialize in OCD, body focused repetitive behaviors (hair pulling, skin picking), anxiety, depression, trauma, religious trauma and childhood trauma. We are LGBTQ+ affirming and follow WPATH standards of care. We offer groups and individual sessions, in person and virtual. Spanish services available. Visit our website - www.tanglewoodbehavioral.com or call 713-428-8700 today.
We now offer Intensive Outpatient! All of our therapists are trained in CBT for obsessive compulsive disorder, mood disorders and Anxiety.
We are a diverse team of therapists with lived experience and extensive training, dedicated to providing the best, evidence-based care. If you're thinking of getting therapy, call us today for a free phone consultation. We have therapists who specialize in OCD, body focused repetitive behaviors (hair pulling, skin picking), anxiety, depression, trauma, religious trauma and childhood trauma. We are LGBTQ+ affirming and follow WPATH standards of care. We offer groups and individual sessions, in person and virtual. Spanish services available. Visit our website - www.tanglewoodbehavioral.com or call 713-428-8700 today.
(346) 818-2651 View (346) 818-2651
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.