Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Jordan Heide, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Jordan Heide
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, CC, CPC, SUDPT, AAC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Struggling with OCD, Phobias, Anxiety Disorders, or Trauma? Yearning to reduce intrusive thoughts, combat the impetus to perform compulsions, and overcome your fears? As a Certified Counselor, I am here to open the door to tranquility and functionality! My role is to assist you in the implementation of Exposure Therapy, the gold-standard treatment for OCD, Anxiety, and Trauma. I will guide you through the application of this behavioral intervention to reduce the intensity of symptoms and enhance quality of life. Serenity is just around the corner!
Struggling with OCD, Phobias, Anxiety Disorders, or Trauma? Yearning to reduce intrusive thoughts, combat the impetus to perform compulsions, and overcome your fears? As a Certified Counselor, I am here to open the door to tranquility and functionality! My role is to assist you in the implementation of Exposure Therapy, the gold-standard treatment for OCD, Anxiety, and Trauma. I will guide you through the application of this behavioral intervention to reduce the intensity of symptoms and enhance quality of life. Serenity is just around the corner!
(206) 590-5075 View (206) 590-5075
Photo of Loni Itah, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Loni Itah
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
When we live our lives in a state of constant fight-or-flight, we can go into survival mode. Worries, phobias, panic attacks, trauma, obsessive thoughts, avoidant behavior, and/or repetitive/compulsive behaviors can make us feel hopeless and helpless. We can find ourselves overthinking, overanalyzing, and feeling powerless. If you're feeling like life hasn't been moving in a positive direction, find yourself in a state of hypervigilence due to trauma and/or frozen by fears and uncertainty, you CAN find your way out - sometimes we just need some extra support to do so.
When we live our lives in a state of constant fight-or-flight, we can go into survival mode. Worries, phobias, panic attacks, trauma, obsessive thoughts, avoidant behavior, and/or repetitive/compulsive behaviors can make us feel hopeless and helpless. We can find ourselves overthinking, overanalyzing, and feeling powerless. If you're feeling like life hasn't been moving in a positive direction, find yourself in a state of hypervigilence due to trauma and/or frozen by fears and uncertainty, you CAN find your way out - sometimes we just need some extra support to do so.
(206) 672-5742 View (206) 672-5742
Photo of Carol J Lundemo, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Carol J Lundemo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Are you burdened with feelings of anxiety, depression, or hopelessness? Do you have intrusive, terrifying thoughts or feel compelled to perform rituals that you know don't make sense? I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. OCD is very common, affecting one in 40 individuals. I am highly trained in using exposure and response prevention, an evidence based treatment proven to help sufferers. I understand this complex and largely misunderstood disorder, and I also support family members, who frequently experience frustration, confusion, and pain while not knowing how to help their loved one
Are you burdened with feelings of anxiety, depression, or hopelessness? Do you have intrusive, terrifying thoughts or feel compelled to perform rituals that you know don't make sense? I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. OCD is very common, affecting one in 40 individuals. I am highly trained in using exposure and response prevention, an evidence based treatment proven to help sufferers. I understand this complex and largely misunderstood disorder, and I also support family members, who frequently experience frustration, confusion, and pain while not knowing how to help their loved one
(206) 453-2681 View (206) 453-2681
Photo of Erjing Cui, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Erjing Cui
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98155
Erjing Cui, MA, LMHC, specializes in working with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders, depression, trauma, and culturally diverse populations. Some of her training included: exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) from McLean Hospital, a psychiatric affiliate of Harvard Medical School; Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) Level 1 and Level II Training by founder and co-founder Dr. Les Greenberg and Dr. Robert Elliott; Advanced Empathy Training by co-founder Dr. Robert Elliott; Mastering ACT III etc.
Erjing Cui, MA, LMHC, specializes in working with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders, depression, trauma, and culturally diverse populations. Some of her training included: exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) from McLean Hospital, a psychiatric affiliate of Harvard Medical School; Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) Level 1 and Level II Training by founder and co-founder Dr. Les Greenberg and Dr. Robert Elliott; Advanced Empathy Training by co-founder Dr. Robert Elliott; Mastering ACT III etc.
(206) 759-5624 View (206) 759-5624
Photo of Max Rappaport, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Max Rappaport
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122
Do you feel stuck? Anxious? Tired of replaying the past and worrying about your future? Living with OCD and anxiety can be exhausting and isolating, so I want to commend you for taking this step to find a trusted therapist to walk with you on this journey. In my work with clients, strive to work collaboratively – you are the expert on you, and I see my job as using my experience and training to guide you toward living authentically and joyfully. Let's get started!
Do you feel stuck? Anxious? Tired of replaying the past and worrying about your future? Living with OCD and anxiety can be exhausting and isolating, so I want to commend you for taking this step to find a trusted therapist to walk with you on this journey. In my work with clients, strive to work collaboratively – you are the expert on you, and I see my job as using my experience and training to guide you toward living authentically and joyfully. Let's get started!
(206) 207-7494 View (206) 207-7494
Photo of Dr. Diana Bastien, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Diana Bastien
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I am a child & adolescent psychologist specializing in OCD, PANS/PANDAS, anxiety, FNSD/conversion disorder, hoarding, panic attacks, school avoidance, skin-picking, and hair-pulling. I take an individualized approach to treatment with a foundation of evidence-based strategies. I work closely with families to help them manage symptoms in their normal, day-to-day life. Teletherapy gives me the opportunity to practice skills with your child in their home or other environments anxiety impacts them the most. For example, I often conduct "exposures" with youth, which teaches them skills to challenge anxiety in real-life situations.
I am a child & adolescent psychologist specializing in OCD, PANS/PANDAS, anxiety, FNSD/conversion disorder, hoarding, panic attacks, school avoidance, skin-picking, and hair-pulling. I take an individualized approach to treatment with a foundation of evidence-based strategies. I work closely with families to help them manage symptoms in their normal, day-to-day life. Teletherapy gives me the opportunity to practice skills with your child in their home or other environments anxiety impacts them the most. For example, I often conduct "exposures" with youth, which teaches them skills to challenge anxiety in real-life situations.
(206) 495-6804 View (206) 495-6804
Photo of Khloe Clawson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Seattle, WA
Khloe Clawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
I work with individuals facing challenges with trauma, self-esteem, relationships, and long term, social, and transition-based anxiety. Additionally, I specialize in ADHD, OCD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. I provide a supportive environment for clients to practice skills designed to enhance personal, relational, and professional satisfaction.
I work with individuals facing challenges with trauma, self-esteem, relationships, and long term, social, and transition-based anxiety. Additionally, I specialize in ADHD, OCD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. I provide a supportive environment for clients to practice skills designed to enhance personal, relational, and professional satisfaction.
(206) 829-6651 View (206) 829-6651
Photo of Wesley Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Wesley Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LMSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Maybe you're tired of suffering from being bossed around by OCD or anxiety. Perhaps you’re in a painful life transition and feeling uncertain, afraid, or lost. I’m glad you’re here. If you feel hopeless, I believe things can get much better, one step at a time. Although it sure can feel this way, rather than viewing OCD or anxiety as a monster trying to torture us, I see it as a hypervigilant alert system whose aim is to keep us safe at all costs. Retraining that alert system can help us get unstuck, heal, and thrive. I never claim to have the answers for anyone’s life, but I love helping people find answers within themselves.
Maybe you're tired of suffering from being bossed around by OCD or anxiety. Perhaps you’re in a painful life transition and feeling uncertain, afraid, or lost. I’m glad you’re here. If you feel hopeless, I believe things can get much better, one step at a time. Although it sure can feel this way, rather than viewing OCD or anxiety as a monster trying to torture us, I see it as a hypervigilant alert system whose aim is to keep us safe at all costs. Retraining that alert system can help us get unstuck, heal, and thrive. I never claim to have the answers for anyone’s life, but I love helping people find answers within themselves.
(425) 587-8275 View (425) 587-8275
Photo of Tamara Harrison, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Tamara Harrison
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
For OCD, phobias, and BDD, I use Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) & Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
The fear that takes you down rabbit-holes, all-consuming obsessions, compulsions, avoidance, & hours of spiraling. Thoughts that you may know are illogical but feel SO real and rob you from a value-driven life. I want you to know that you're not alone, it's not your fault, & there is hope. You are not destined to live a life controlled by worry, panic, & fear. Your thoughts do NOT represent who you are! You will receive acceptance & nonjudgement in our sessions. Your fears & insecurities are safe here! I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, low self worth, and phobias. As someone who has personally experienced these, I get it!
For OCD, phobias, and BDD, I use Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) & Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
The fear that takes you down rabbit-holes, all-consuming obsessions, compulsions, avoidance, & hours of spiraling. Thoughts that you may know are illogical but feel SO real and rob you from a value-driven life. I want you to know that you're not alone, it's not your fault, & there is hope. You are not destined to live a life controlled by worry, panic, & fear. Your thoughts do NOT represent who you are! You will receive acceptance & nonjudgement in our sessions. Your fears & insecurities are safe here! I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, low self worth, and phobias. As someone who has personally experienced these, I get it!
(360) 526-8824 View (360) 526-8824
Photo of David J Kosins, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
David J Kosins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
I am one of Washington State's most experienced specialists in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I help people to cope with anxiety, OCD, and related disorders, and to live a healthy, balanced life. Working from a foundation of a caring and empathic therapy relationship, I can teach you scientifically-supported skills to handle your life challanges more effectively. My goal is to help my clients regain their vitality and confidence through learning how to resolve current problems and reduce troubling symptoms. My ideal client is someone struggling with an anxiety or related disorder who seeks concrete results from therapy that is informed by research.
I am one of Washington State's most experienced specialists in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I help people to cope with anxiety, OCD, and related disorders, and to live a healthy, balanced life. Working from a foundation of a caring and empathic therapy relationship, I can teach you scientifically-supported skills to handle your life challanges more effectively. My goal is to help my clients regain their vitality and confidence through learning how to resolve current problems and reduce troubling symptoms. My ideal client is someone struggling with an anxiety or related disorder who seeks concrete results from therapy that is informed by research.
(206) 483-0367 View (206) 483-0367
Photo of Emory L Strickland, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Emory L Strickland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Through a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques, we will work together to overcome anxiety and OCD.
I specialize in delivering evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders. The science is clear on what therapy works best for these issues, yet often clients who need it most never access the right type of care. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) treatment is considered the gold standard, and while many providers implement various CBT tools and techniques, they are not incorporated in a structured way as the research indicates. With over a decade of experience and thousands of hours delivering CBT treatments, I have cultivated a profound understanding on how to help folks with these issues.
Through a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques, we will work together to overcome anxiety and OCD.
I specialize in delivering evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders. The science is clear on what therapy works best for these issues, yet often clients who need it most never access the right type of care. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) treatment is considered the gold standard, and while many providers implement various CBT tools and techniques, they are not incorporated in a structured way as the research indicates. With over a decade of experience and thousands of hours delivering CBT treatments, I have cultivated a profound understanding on how to help folks with these issues.
(425) 517-3436 View (425) 517-3436
Photo of Laura Smestad, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Laura Smestad
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I'm Laura, an OCD therapist with 10 years' experience as a mental health counselor. I specialize in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), with a focus on using evidence-based treatments, such as exposure and response prevention (ERP). OCD is a highly misunderstood and misdiagnosed disorder, and, sadly, this means that many individuals suffer unnecessarily for years before getting help. I've had countless people arrive in my office feeling hopeless because nothing they've tried before has helped, and I am so grateful I can offer them newfound hope through treatment for OCD that actually works. I also treat phobias.
I'm Laura, an OCD therapist with 10 years' experience as a mental health counselor. I specialize in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), with a focus on using evidence-based treatments, such as exposure and response prevention (ERP). OCD is a highly misunderstood and misdiagnosed disorder, and, sadly, this means that many individuals suffer unnecessarily for years before getting help. I've had countless people arrive in my office feeling hopeless because nothing they've tried before has helped, and I am so grateful I can offer them newfound hope through treatment for OCD that actually works. I also treat phobias.
(425) 217-2417 View (425) 217-2417
Photo of Jamie Kostek, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jamie Kostek
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Seattle. My main focus is the treatment of OCD, anxiety, and ADHD in youth and adults. I believe that everyone has the capacity for profound change. Some things I can help you or your child with include: gaining a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life; increasing awareness of your senses and the ability to activate your body's natural relaxation response; emotion regulation; learning how to reduce anxiety, worry, stress, and rumination; boosting your focus and organization, addressing parenting concerns; and gaining a deeper connection to yourself and others.
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Seattle. My main focus is the treatment of OCD, anxiety, and ADHD in youth and adults. I believe that everyone has the capacity for profound change. Some things I can help you or your child with include: gaining a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life; increasing awareness of your senses and the ability to activate your body's natural relaxation response; emotion regulation; learning how to reduce anxiety, worry, stress, and rumination; boosting your focus and organization, addressing parenting concerns; and gaining a deeper connection to yourself and others.
(206) 607-2743 View (206) 607-2743
Photo of Kelly Granite Enck in Seattle, WA
Kelly Granite Enck
CHT, BA, RRT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) is a cutting-edge hypnotherapy technique that offers a wide range of benefits. It can help individuals overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), quit smoking, manage grief, improve insomnia, lose weight, enhance sports performance, and build confidence. If you are seeking assistance in any of these areas, Kelly Granite Enck, B.A. CHt., a highly skilled hypnotherapist and advanced RRT practitioner, is available to provide a free consultation. You can reach Kelly at 206-507-3203 or book an online session www.DoylestownHypnosis.com
Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) is a cutting-edge hypnotherapy technique that offers a wide range of benefits. It can help individuals overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), quit smoking, manage grief, improve insomnia, lose weight, enhance sports performance, and build confidence. If you are seeking assistance in any of these areas, Kelly Granite Enck, B.A. CHt., a highly skilled hypnotherapist and advanced RRT practitioner, is available to provide a free consultation. You can reach Kelly at 206-507-3203 or book an online session www.DoylestownHypnosis.com
(206) 875-2613 View (206) 875-2613
Photo of Margee Quinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Margee Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Current openings! I'm queer and I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ and nonmonogamous adults around trauma, family of origin issues, gender affirming care, and anxiety, including OCD. Before therapy, many of my clients think: Being in my head is stressful- there are things I'm fearful of talking about, or even thinking about. My past is still affecting me. Setting boundaries can be really hard. Sometimes I have nightmares or flashbacks of things I've been through. If that sounds like you, I can help. Therapy can be a safe, non-judgmental space to make sense of your experiences and create meaningful change in your life.
Current openings! I'm queer and I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ and nonmonogamous adults around trauma, family of origin issues, gender affirming care, and anxiety, including OCD. Before therapy, many of my clients think: Being in my head is stressful- there are things I'm fearful of talking about, or even thinking about. My past is still affecting me. Setting boundaries can be really hard. Sometimes I have nightmares or flashbacks of things I've been through. If that sounds like you, I can help. Therapy can be a safe, non-judgmental space to make sense of your experiences and create meaningful change in your life.
(206) 408-1676 View (206) 408-1676
Photo of Elizabeth E Hubert, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Elizabeth E Hubert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I work with people who are seeking help for a variety of reasons such as anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, life transitions, or relationship concerns.
I approach my work with adults and teens with warmth, humor, and compassion. My goal is to support you in moving toward what is most important to you in your life. I use a variety of evidence-based treatments in my work including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention (E/RP), Cognitive Processing Therapy, Harm Reduction/Relapse Prevention, and Behavioral Activation.
I work with people who are seeking help for a variety of reasons such as anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, life transitions, or relationship concerns.
I approach my work with adults and teens with warmth, humor, and compassion. My goal is to support you in moving toward what is most important to you in your life. I use a variety of evidence-based treatments in my work including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention (E/RP), Cognitive Processing Therapy, Harm Reduction/Relapse Prevention, and Behavioral Activation.
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Photo of Marika Kyrimis, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Marika Kyrimis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
My practice specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety (e.g., OCD, Social Anxiety, Panic, Phobias etc.) and related disorders (e.g., Insomnia, Picking, Pulling). I provide individual treatment for adults and late adolescents. My goal is to provide individualized, compassionate, effective, evidence-based treatment. My approach has its grounding in CBT but when appropriate I also use mindfulness techniques, components of Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy to enhance the treatment and support the client's movement toward accomplishing treatment goals.
My practice specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety (e.g., OCD, Social Anxiety, Panic, Phobias etc.) and related disorders (e.g., Insomnia, Picking, Pulling). I provide individual treatment for adults and late adolescents. My goal is to provide individualized, compassionate, effective, evidence-based treatment. My approach has its grounding in CBT but when appropriate I also use mindfulness techniques, components of Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy to enhance the treatment and support the client's movement toward accomplishing treatment goals.
(206) 207-4689 View (206) 207-4689
Photo of Adelaide Rowe Barroso, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Adelaide Rowe Barroso
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
Licensed in CA and WA states - Successfully managing through high school, college, and early adulthood can be challenging. Many of my clients find themselves sacrificing mental health for academic and career success or have difficulties with motivation, confidence, and relationships. While stress is a normal and expected part of life, I help my clients manage anxiety and OCD without feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, or alone. I also support the building of communication skills and boundary-setting to better navigate and nurture important relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners.
Licensed in CA and WA states - Successfully managing through high school, college, and early adulthood can be challenging. Many of my clients find themselves sacrificing mental health for academic and career success or have difficulties with motivation, confidence, and relationships. While stress is a normal and expected part of life, I help my clients manage anxiety and OCD without feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, or alone. I also support the building of communication skills and boundary-setting to better navigate and nurture important relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners.
(425) 873-8756 View (425) 873-8756
Photo of Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services is a specialty clinic that strives to provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for those who are suffering from anxiety and OCD, and who otherwise may not have access to specialized therapy services. We work with individuals who struggle with OCD- and anxiety-related concerns, including: OCD, panic and agoraphobia, health anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, body-focused repetitive behaviors, body dysmorphic disorder, trauma and PTSD, depression and mood-related issues, and sleep dysregulation, among others.
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services is a specialty clinic that strives to provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for those who are suffering from anxiety and OCD, and who otherwise may not have access to specialized therapy services. We work with individuals who struggle with OCD- and anxiety-related concerns, including: OCD, panic and agoraphobia, health anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, body-focused repetitive behaviors, body dysmorphic disorder, trauma and PTSD, depression and mood-related issues, and sleep dysregulation, among others.
(206) 401-9829 View (206) 401-9829
Photo of Julia Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Julia Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Hi there! I’m Julia Hall and practicing psychotherapist in New York and Washington states. I specialize in PTSD, OCD and anxiety related disorders and I'm capable of treating a wide range of issues as there is often overlap. I tend to begin by getting to know you, what brought you to therapy and what potential goals you have for therapy in order for us to have a collaborative approach and relationship. I trust in evidence based approaches, I hope to partner with you to free you from the confines of intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors and get your life to where you want it.
Hi there! I’m Julia Hall and practicing psychotherapist in New York and Washington states. I specialize in PTSD, OCD and anxiety related disorders and I'm capable of treating a wide range of issues as there is often overlap. I tend to begin by getting to know you, what brought you to therapy and what potential goals you have for therapy in order for us to have a collaborative approach and relationship. I trust in evidence based approaches, I hope to partner with you to free you from the confines of intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors and get your life to where you want it.
(206) 944-3227 View (206) 944-3227
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.