Photo of Rebekah Stone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Rebekah Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
I have over 14 years of experience. I am passionate and Solution-Focused, about helping others, whether it is a struggle with daily life tasks, general life transitions, or in cases of distress or crisis. My goal is to help you feel more empowered to reach your personal goals and experience a healthier and happier life. We can work together on healing whether you are experiencing issues in managing emotions, relationship boundaries, self-esteem, mood instability, or other symptoms directly related to OCD, bi-polar disorder, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I consider myself to be an “eclectic” therapist.
I have over 14 years of experience. I am passionate and Solution-Focused, about helping others, whether it is a struggle with daily life tasks, general life transitions, or in cases of distress or crisis. My goal is to help you feel more empowered to reach your personal goals and experience a healthier and happier life. We can work together on healing whether you are experiencing issues in managing emotions, relationship boundaries, self-esteem, mood instability, or other symptoms directly related to OCD, bi-polar disorder, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I consider myself to be an “eclectic” therapist.
(571) 520-4294 View (571) 520-4294
Photo of Alison Rinsland, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Alison Rinsland
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23508
My speciality varies from working with individuals with anxiety disorders, perinatal / postpartum mental health, religious trauma and abuse, and perfectionism. Additionally, I have clinical experience working with depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, women's issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, neurodiversity, military, first responders, and addiction.
My speciality varies from working with individuals with anxiety disorders, perinatal / postpartum mental health, religious trauma and abuse, and perfectionism. Additionally, I have clinical experience working with depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, women's issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, neurodiversity, military, first responders, and addiction.
(757) 780-8094 View (757) 780-8094
Photo of Mallory Bailey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Mallory Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503
I specialize in anxiety, depression, OCD, and spiritual concerns amongst any denomination.
I love to help others feel comfortable in sharing their stories without guilt and shame. I try to give an open space for clients to share what they are looking for during counseling and specific outcomes they would like to achieve. One of my goals is to help clients take time to become aware of their thoughts and feelings amid demanding work, school, and personal schedules. I am passionate about helping other's slow down in the midst of our hurried world and engage in practices that increase awareness of ourselves and of God within our story.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, OCD, and spiritual concerns amongst any denomination.
I love to help others feel comfortable in sharing their stories without guilt and shame. I try to give an open space for clients to share what they are looking for during counseling and specific outcomes they would like to achieve. One of my goals is to help clients take time to become aware of their thoughts and feelings amid demanding work, school, and personal schedules. I am passionate about helping other's slow down in the midst of our hurried world and engage in practices that increase awareness of ourselves and of God within our story.
(434) 226-5929 View (434) 226-5929
Photo of Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chester, VA 23831  (Online Only)
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and anxiety.
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and anxiety.
(804) 207-5721 View (804) 207-5721
Photo of Michael Joel Sheffield, Resident in Counseling in Virginia
Michael Joel Sheffield
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
My name is Michael Sheffield and alongside obtaining my Master's degree, I have been working in the counseling field with people for 3 years. Life is hitting you hard right now and you're stuck. Maybe you feel alone. Maybe you struggle doing what you need or want to get done. Maybe you struggle with the way your mind works. Or just maybe you feel like there's not much meaning in your life. My life and training are lent towards working with people experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, overactive/judgemental minds, relationship stress, pessimism, trauma, sleep disturbance, OCD, uncontrolled anger/mood, workaholism, and chronic pain.
My name is Michael Sheffield and alongside obtaining my Master's degree, I have been working in the counseling field with people for 3 years. Life is hitting you hard right now and you're stuck. Maybe you feel alone. Maybe you struggle doing what you need or want to get done. Maybe you struggle with the way your mind works. Or just maybe you feel like there's not much meaning in your life. My life and training are lent towards working with people experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, overactive/judgemental minds, relationship stress, pessimism, trauma, sleep disturbance, OCD, uncontrolled anger/mood, workaholism, and chronic pain.
(757) 379-8539 View (757) 379-8539
Alisa M Roman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I emphasize a whole person approach because anxiety, phobias, depression, relationship difficulties, and problematic behaviors happen within a broad context. Recommendations are offered with a compassionate appreciation of not only where you have been, but where you want to go. I strive to offer a data informed but humanistic approach to the treatment of such disorders as phobias, trichotillomania and other body- focused repetitive behaviors such as skin picking. I have experience working with trauma, behavioral health needs, neonatal loss, bereavement and life transition issues.
I emphasize a whole person approach because anxiety, phobias, depression, relationship difficulties, and problematic behaviors happen within a broad context. Recommendations are offered with a compassionate appreciation of not only where you have been, but where you want to go. I strive to offer a data informed but humanistic approach to the treatment of such disorders as phobias, trichotillomania and other body- focused repetitive behaviors such as skin picking. I have experience working with trauma, behavioral health needs, neonatal loss, bereavement and life transition issues.
(703) 596-8977 View (703) 596-8977
Photo of OCD & Anxiety Specialists, Resident in Counseling in Virginia
OCD & Anxiety Specialists
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
My name is Michael Sheffield and alongside obtaining my Master's degree, I have been working in the counseling field with people for 3 years. Life is hitting you hard right now and you're stuck. Maybe you feel alone. Maybe you struggle doing what you need or want to get done. Maybe you struggle with the way your mind works. Or just maybe you feel like there's not much meaning in your life. My life and training are lent towards specializing with people experiencing anxiety and OCD. The form of therapy and methods I use are considered the gold standard for working with these challenges in a way that helps the person Take Back Control.
My name is Michael Sheffield and alongside obtaining my Master's degree, I have been working in the counseling field with people for 3 years. Life is hitting you hard right now and you're stuck. Maybe you feel alone. Maybe you struggle doing what you need or want to get done. Maybe you struggle with the way your mind works. Or just maybe you feel like there's not much meaning in your life. My life and training are lent towards specializing with people experiencing anxiety and OCD. The form of therapy and methods I use are considered the gold standard for working with these challenges in a way that helps the person Take Back Control.
(757) 210-6681 View (757) 210-6681
Photo of Alexis Guerrero, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Alexis Guerrero
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209
I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, life transitions, and relationship concerns. I am passionate about helping individuals find peace within and acceptance of themselves while working toward a life full of fulfilling relationships and experiences. I believe that, although it may look different for each person, healing and thriving are available to those who are willing to work for and receive it.
I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, life transitions, and relationship concerns. I am passionate about helping individuals find peace within and acceptance of themselves while working toward a life full of fulfilling relationships and experiences. I believe that, although it may look different for each person, healing and thriving are available to those who are willing to work for and receive it.
(571) 998-1813 View (571) 998-1813
Photo of Consider Mindfulness LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Consider Mindfulness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Craig is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT prolonged Exposure, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), the Gottman Method and offers parent coaching for parents with anxious children.
Clients can experience a life situation or a series of life situations that cause some level of unwanted emotional arousal (sadness, hurt, pain, fear, anxiety) and as a result of the intensity, increases an urge to do a behavior they consider ineffective (self harm, suicidal behavior, isolate, withdrawal, shutdown, verbally/physically aggressive, tantrums, obsessions, compulsions, avoidance, school refusal). They are in need of skills to help them cope with their emotions and problem solve their life situations. Despite the discomfort, they want to be effective, maintain relationships and feel better.
Craig is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT prolonged Exposure, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), the Gottman Method and offers parent coaching for parents with anxious children.
Clients can experience a life situation or a series of life situations that cause some level of unwanted emotional arousal (sadness, hurt, pain, fear, anxiety) and as a result of the intensity, increases an urge to do a behavior they consider ineffective (self harm, suicidal behavior, isolate, withdrawal, shutdown, verbally/physically aggressive, tantrums, obsessions, compulsions, avoidance, school refusal). They are in need of skills to help them cope with their emotions and problem solve their life situations. Despite the discomfort, they want to be effective, maintain relationships and feel better.
(571) 600-6638 View (571) 600-6638
Photo of David L Kupfer, Psychologist in Virginia
David L Kupfer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22041
I specialize in using cognitive-behavioral therapy to help people overcome Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Phobias, PTSD, and other anxiety problems.
If you want help in overcoming depression, anxiety, and relationship problems, I have over 30 years of experience working with people like you. I have been trained in a practical, compassionate, brand of cognitive-behavioral therapy, and have learned to add techniques such as EMDR and Mindfulness to the basic approach I have used. I have special training in treating anxiety problems, mood disorders, sleep disturbances, chronic pain, medical illness, and helping people deal with grief and loss. I was named a "Top Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 for my work with OCD, Panic, Phobias, and Generalized Anxiety Disorders.
I specialize in using cognitive-behavioral therapy to help people overcome Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Phobias, PTSD, and other anxiety problems.
If you want help in overcoming depression, anxiety, and relationship problems, I have over 30 years of experience working with people like you. I have been trained in a practical, compassionate, brand of cognitive-behavioral therapy, and have learned to add techniques such as EMDR and Mindfulness to the basic approach I have used. I have special training in treating anxiety problems, mood disorders, sleep disturbances, chronic pain, medical illness, and helping people deal with grief and loss. I was named a "Top Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 for my work with OCD, Panic, Phobias, and Generalized Anxiety Disorders.
(703) 468-8411 View (703) 468-8411
Photo of Maggie Maxwell, Resident in Counseling in Virginia
Maggie Maxwell
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with individuals experiencing anxiety, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), scrupulosity, depression, & mood disorders.
If you are ready to change the way you respond to anxiety and stress, you're in the right place. I work with clients seeking long-term lifestyle changes in the way they approach uncertainty in life, being stuck in thought loops, and obsessive thinking and compulsions. In our work together, we address anxiety and depression, OCD, and/or other mental health concerns through introspection & outward action. We work together in developing insight & creative exploration of self while taking actionable steps to rebuild trust in yourself. You can learn to meet your needs & live through your values, not your fears.
I am dedicated to working with individuals experiencing anxiety, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), scrupulosity, depression, & mood disorders.
If you are ready to change the way you respond to anxiety and stress, you're in the right place. I work with clients seeking long-term lifestyle changes in the way they approach uncertainty in life, being stuck in thought loops, and obsessive thinking and compulsions. In our work together, we address anxiety and depression, OCD, and/or other mental health concerns through introspection & outward action. We work together in developing insight & creative exploration of self while taking actionable steps to rebuild trust in yourself. You can learn to meet your needs & live through your values, not your fears.
(571) 462-2650 View (571) 462-2650
Photo of Mary Kay Rose, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Mary Kay Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
People who work with me are often adults or couples going through life transitions, experiencing loss, change or transformation, anxiety or OCD, or perhaps wanting a safe place to land to manage effects of traumatic events or experiences they have had in the past or are dealing with presently.
Hello! My name is Mary Kay Rose and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe that counseling offers a safe space to explore concerns, challenges, hopes and specific intentions and desires you may have for your life. I look forward to the privilege of connecting with you and together, creating a relationship that will support you in being present in your life and relationships and moving forward in ways that you desire.
People who work with me are often adults or couples going through life transitions, experiencing loss, change or transformation, anxiety or OCD, or perhaps wanting a safe place to land to manage effects of traumatic events or experiences they have had in the past or are dealing with presently.
Hello! My name is Mary Kay Rose and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe that counseling offers a safe space to explore concerns, challenges, hopes and specific intentions and desires you may have for your life. I look forward to the privilege of connecting with you and together, creating a relationship that will support you in being present in your life and relationships and moving forward in ways that you desire.
(757) 798-8403 View (757) 798-8403
Photo of Morgan (Soper) Hickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Morgan (Soper) Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in adolescents (ages 16+) and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and difficulty coping with medical problems. As a therapist, I believe that everyone is capable of change and healing, regardless of your circumstances. I utilize a strengths-based and systems approach, with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral and solutions-focused interventions. For clients struggling with OCD, my primary treatment approach is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in adolescents (ages 16+) and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and difficulty coping with medical problems. As a therapist, I believe that everyone is capable of change and healing, regardless of your circumstances. I utilize a strengths-based and systems approach, with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral and solutions-focused interventions. For clients struggling with OCD, my primary treatment approach is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
(434) 204-2418 View (434) 204-2418
Photo of Christine M Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Christine M Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
(804) 259-2076 View (804) 259-2076
Photo of Paria Maghsoudi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Paria Maghsoudi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22181  (Online Only)
Transitions can be difficult with new life challenges and tribulations. Perhaps you are transitioning between jobs, relationships, and/or moving to a new environment etc. You may be finding yourself struggling to discover your identity and are now faced with obsessive thoughts. Whether these thoughts are causing you to seek constantly repeat actions or seek reassurance, it’s time to consider seeking out help. If you are in search of finding someone that can listen and provide life changing support and treatment then this can be a start to a new beginning.
Transitions can be difficult with new life challenges and tribulations. Perhaps you are transitioning between jobs, relationships, and/or moving to a new environment etc. You may be finding yourself struggling to discover your identity and are now faced with obsessive thoughts. Whether these thoughts are causing you to seek constantly repeat actions or seek reassurance, it’s time to consider seeking out help. If you are in search of finding someone that can listen and provide life changing support and treatment then this can be a start to a new beginning.
(321) 421-5335 View (321) 421-5335
Photo of Adam Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Adam Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am an anxiety, OCD, and trauma specialist who works with individuals, couples, and families.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor operating a private practice called AutonoMe Counseling Center, LLC. Currently, I am offering telehealth therapy to the people of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. In the past two years, I have transitioned from an office to solely telehealth, and I have found telehealth to be just as personal and effective as in-person. I am an anxiety, OCD, and trauma specialist who works with individuals, couples, and families. I also treat relationship issues, mood disorders, depression, and identity challenges.
I am an anxiety, OCD, and trauma specialist who works with individuals, couples, and families.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor operating a private practice called AutonoMe Counseling Center, LLC. Currently, I am offering telehealth therapy to the people of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. In the past two years, I have transitioned from an office to solely telehealth, and I have found telehealth to be just as personal and effective as in-person. I am an anxiety, OCD, and trauma specialist who works with individuals, couples, and families. I also treat relationship issues, mood disorders, depression, and identity challenges.
(732) 936-7783 View (732) 936-7783
Photo of Christine Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Christine Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23173
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
(240) 201-2713 View (240) 201-2713
Photo of Purposeful Life Therapy - Carolyn Watson Phd, Psychologist in Virginia
Purposeful Life Therapy - Carolyn Watson Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
My areas of clinical focus include depression, anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias), relationship challenges, spirituality, life transitions, OCD, multicultural counseling, cultural adjustments and education/career concerns.
You have the power to heal, grow, and thrive. & I can help! As a clinical therapist, it’s my privilege to hold space for clients as they unpack areas of concern, increase self-awareness, restore balance, and identify strengths they can cultivate to create sustainable change. My clientele come from diverse walks of life. Many are working professionals who are struggling to keep up with the busy demands of life and now feel ready to explore areas they are stuck.
My areas of clinical focus include depression, anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias), relationship challenges, spirituality, life transitions, OCD, multicultural counseling, cultural adjustments and education/career concerns.
You have the power to heal, grow, and thrive. & I can help! As a clinical therapist, it’s my privilege to hold space for clients as they unpack areas of concern, increase self-awareness, restore balance, and identify strengths they can cultivate to create sustainable change. My clientele come from diverse walks of life. Many are working professionals who are struggling to keep up with the busy demands of life and now feel ready to explore areas they are stuck.
(202) 831-4486 View (202) 831-4486
Photo of Cara Knight, Counselor in Virginia
Cara Knight
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Cara and I've been practicing mental health since 2010. It wasn't until I gave birth in 2021 that I realized a real need for counselors trained in all things postpartum. Postpartum issues can range from depression and anxiety to Bipolar disorder, grief, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis. They can also be present in someone other than the one who gave birth! Partners, close social supports, adoptive parents, and even birthing professionals can experience these issues. With the right treatment things can get better! If you're experiencing any issues listed above, regardless of parental status I'd love to help.
Hi, I'm Cara and I've been practicing mental health since 2010. It wasn't until I gave birth in 2021 that I realized a real need for counselors trained in all things postpartum. Postpartum issues can range from depression and anxiety to Bipolar disorder, grief, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis. They can also be present in someone other than the one who gave birth! Partners, close social supports, adoptive parents, and even birthing professionals can experience these issues. With the right treatment things can get better! If you're experiencing any issues listed above, regardless of parental status I'd love to help.
(540) 787-3067 View (540) 787-3067
Photo of Alice A. Jimenez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Alice A. Jimenez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLM, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22193
The population I work with are individuals, couples and families struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, relationships, adjustment issues and grief.
I believe in helping those who come to my office with compassion and understanding in an atmosphere conducive towards healing, where there is no room for judgment or criticism. In psychotherapy, my clients find an opportunity to go within, tap into issues that are unresolved and explore endless possibilities to make necessary changes that add meaning to their lives. It is a journey of self-discovery for clients who are willing to take the necessary steps towards self-awareness, mood-regulation and self-actualization.
The population I work with are individuals, couples and families struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, relationships, adjustment issues and grief.
I believe in helping those who come to my office with compassion and understanding in an atmosphere conducive towards healing, where there is no room for judgment or criticism. In psychotherapy, my clients find an opportunity to go within, tap into issues that are unresolved and explore endless possibilities to make necessary changes that add meaning to their lives. It is a journey of self-discovery for clients who are willing to take the necessary steps towards self-awareness, mood-regulation and self-actualization.
(703) 594-4392 View (703) 594-4392
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.