Photo of Margee Quinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
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 Carol J Lundemo, Counselor in Washington
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 Hope's Harbor Counseling , Counselor in Washington
Hope's Harbor Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
Heather's background in developmental approaches gives her an interest in working with clients of school age and above, and of differing cultural backgrounds. She has extensive training in mindfulness approaches, and uses a present-centered approach, combining it with strengths-building techniques. Heather specializes in working with those who struggle with PTSD, complex PTSD, anxiety, OCD, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and depression, among other mental health struggles. Heather is LGBTQIA+ -affirming.
Heather's background in developmental approaches gives her an interest in working with clients of school age and above, and of differing cultural backgrounds. She has extensive training in mindfulness approaches, and uses a present-centered approach, combining it with strengths-building techniques. Heather specializes in working with those who struggle with PTSD, complex PTSD, anxiety, OCD, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and depression, among other mental health struggles. Heather is LGBTQIA+ -affirming.
(425) 585-2378 View (425) 585-2378
Photo of Caroline White, Counselor in Washington
Caroline White
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I have experience working with individuals and families, and offer skill building and process oriented sessions. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders, and those struggling with body image/self acceptance. I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety, anger management, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. My hope is for each of my clients to leave our session feeling heard and knowing that their experience and struggle is valid.
I have experience working with individuals and families, and offer skill building and process oriented sessions. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders, and those struggling with body image/self acceptance. I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety, anger management, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. My hope is for each of my clients to leave our session feeling heard and knowing that their experience and struggle is valid.
(206) 408-1408 View (206) 408-1408
Photo of Sanaz Amini, Counselor in Washington
Sanaz Amini
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034
Now accepting NEW clients. Armed with a decade of experience and a passion for helping others, I work with children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational challenges, OCD, and problematic social media use. My education in counseling psychology and speech-language pathology equips me with a holistic approach and unique perspective on communication challenges.
Now accepting NEW clients. Armed with a decade of experience and a passion for helping others, I work with children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational challenges, OCD, and problematic social media use. My education in counseling psychology and speech-language pathology equips me with a holistic approach and unique perspective on communication challenges.
(425) 386-7765 View (425) 386-7765
Photo of Chloe Sidoti, Counselor in Washington
Chloe Sidoti
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Accepting clients! I provide evidence-based individual therapy and parent coaching for adolescents and young adults with Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. I find therapy to be the most effective when there is a trusting therapeutic alliance that establishes a safe space for clients to explore their inner thoughts and emotions. Through collaboration, and by tuning into my clients unique strengths and learning styles, I help find what strategy works best for them for breaking free from the vicious cycle of OCD and Anxiety. My clients find they feel more grounded in who they are, trust in their capabilities, and motivated for whats to come.
Accepting clients! I provide evidence-based individual therapy and parent coaching for adolescents and young adults with Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. I find therapy to be the most effective when there is a trusting therapeutic alliance that establishes a safe space for clients to explore their inner thoughts and emotions. Through collaboration, and by tuning into my clients unique strengths and learning styles, I help find what strategy works best for them for breaking free from the vicious cycle of OCD and Anxiety. My clients find they feel more grounded in who they are, trust in their capabilities, and motivated for whats to come.
(206) 895-2855 View (206) 895-2855
Photo of Kelly Granite Enck in Washington
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 Danielle N Branton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Danielle N Branton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Some treatments I specialize in are: diagnosing and management of ADHD, exposure-response prevention (ERP) for OCD, CBT for anxiety and depression, and FBT for anorexia.
Limited after-school availability! - My passion is working with adolescents, families and adults who are looking to learn new skills to use in their lives. We'd be a good fit if you're looking for someone who teaches skills and strategies to use when encountering difficulties. Often people will encounter times where they struggle and don't have the skills to manage current stressors or problem. I’m here to offer you support and techniques that have shown to be effective in helping with these problems. Working with me involves learning more about what makes situations difficult (what's the specific problem) and applying new skills.
Some treatments I specialize in are: diagnosing and management of ADHD, exposure-response prevention (ERP) for OCD, CBT for anxiety and depression, and FBT for anorexia.
Limited after-school availability! - My passion is working with adolescents, families and adults who are looking to learn new skills to use in their lives. We'd be a good fit if you're looking for someone who teaches skills and strategies to use when encountering difficulties. Often people will encounter times where they struggle and don't have the skills to manage current stressors or problem. I’m here to offer you support and techniques that have shown to be effective in helping with these problems. Working with me involves learning more about what makes situations difficult (what's the specific problem) and applying new skills.
(425) 961-9016 View (425) 961-9016
Photo of Holding Hope Therapy, Counselor in Washington
Holding Hope Therapy
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98031  (Online Only)
I also help Clients with OCD anxiety.
I want my clients to know they are not alone, and that healing and peace are possible. Each Client has incredible worth and value.​ I offer a safe and nonjudgmental setting and partnership where you can share your burdens and offload the weight on your shoulders. Whether your struggle is anxiety, depression, or life/relationship issues, I hope to help you get to the root of your concerns and empower you to overcome. Especially for Clients who have trauma from experiencing abuse tactics such as gaslighting, manipulation, and any violation of boundaries, I hope to validate your experience and help you claim your life back.
I also help Clients with OCD anxiety.
I want my clients to know they are not alone, and that healing and peace are possible. Each Client has incredible worth and value.​ I offer a safe and nonjudgmental setting and partnership where you can share your burdens and offload the weight on your shoulders. Whether your struggle is anxiety, depression, or life/relationship issues, I hope to help you get to the root of your concerns and empower you to overcome. Especially for Clients who have trauma from experiencing abuse tactics such as gaslighting, manipulation, and any violation of boundaries, I hope to validate your experience and help you claim your life back.
(253) 766-5089 View (253) 766-5089
Photo of Max Rappaport, Counselor in Washington
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 Cornerstone OCD & Anxiety Group PLLC, Counselor in Washington
Cornerstone OCD & Anxiety Group PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338  (Online Only)
We specialize working in the "Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum".
Anxiety is awful. Most people just do not understand how difficult it is to live with chronic worry, panic attacks, or obsessive thoughts that compel unwanted behavior. Gladly, most people will never have to know how horrible it is to have nagging obsessive thoughts, or fear panicking in public places. The variety of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT) like Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are quite effective in increasing distress tolerance, reducing anxiety, and eliminating the dysfunctional behaviors that accompany it. Because our practice is growing we do have some openings.
We specialize working in the "Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum".
Anxiety is awful. Most people just do not understand how difficult it is to live with chronic worry, panic attacks, or obsessive thoughts that compel unwanted behavior. Gladly, most people will never have to know how horrible it is to have nagging obsessive thoughts, or fear panicking in public places. The variety of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT) like Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are quite effective in increasing distress tolerance, reducing anxiety, and eliminating the dysfunctional behaviors that accompany it. Because our practice is growing we do have some openings.
(206) 535-1464 View (206) 535-1464
Photo of Steven M Brown, Counselor in Washington
Steven M Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Not only limited to the anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, OCD, anger issues, and personality disorders or attachment issues.
A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.
Not only limited to the anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, OCD, anger issues, and personality disorders or attachment issues.
A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.
(253) 466-7490 View (253) 466-7490
Geoffrey A Wiegand
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Common problems treated include, Depression; Anxiety ( OCD, Panic, School Avoidance, Generalized Anxiety Disorder); Academic Underachievement, Chronic Pain; Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity and Adjustment Disorders.
I like to start with a 2 session diagnostic evaluation to help identify the most appropriate evidence based treatment for the problem. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for Depression, CBT for OCD, Parent Behavior Management Training for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Habit Reversal Training for Skin Picking, Nail Biting, and Trichotillomania, and Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics are some of the evidence based treatments that I commonly provide. My work with families focuses on providing skills to both the child/adolescent and parents.
Common problems treated include, Depression; Anxiety ( OCD, Panic, School Avoidance, Generalized Anxiety Disorder); Academic Underachievement, Chronic Pain; Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity and Adjustment Disorders.
I like to start with a 2 session diagnostic evaluation to help identify the most appropriate evidence based treatment for the problem. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for Depression, CBT for OCD, Parent Behavior Management Training for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Habit Reversal Training for Skin Picking, Nail Biting, and Trichotillomania, and Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics are some of the evidence based treatments that I commonly provide. My work with families focuses on providing skills to both the child/adolescent and parents.
(206) 981-3119 View (206) 981-3119
Photo of Carolyn Ratley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Carolyn Ratley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I have a lot of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, those with anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, OCD, and life transitions.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, adolescents and families and I love my work. I feel honored to walk alongside clients and their families; sharing their joys, fears, traumas, and dreams. I have experience working with a variety of struggles ranging from depression, anxiety, divorce as well as social skills issues and autism. I do not work with couples just individuals and families.
I have a lot of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, those with anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, OCD, and life transitions.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, adolescents and families and I love my work. I feel honored to walk alongside clients and their families; sharing their joys, fears, traumas, and dreams. I have experience working with a variety of struggles ranging from depression, anxiety, divorce as well as social skills issues and autism. I do not work with couples just individuals and families.
(206) 745-5077 View (206) 745-5077
Photo of Justin Marr, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Justin Marr
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
I can help guide couples/polycules/individuals through communication issues, self-exploration, identifying/expressing needs, anxiety/depression, OCD, spiritual questioning, and life transitions (breakups, new relationships, job changes, parenting).
Are you having trouble communicating with your partner? Do you struggle expressing your wants and needs with your loved ones? Are you worried that you’ll stay stuck—repeating the same conversation over and over? I understand what you’re going through. Relationships are hard and they stir up our fears and vulnerabilities. But they can also be fulfilling, exciting, and satisfying. I believe life and relationships are a journey full of transitions, twists, and turns. Sometimes these transitions are not what we expect and we’re left feeling anxious, confused, or discouraged. No matter where you find yourself, there is a way forward.
I can help guide couples/polycules/individuals through communication issues, self-exploration, identifying/expressing needs, anxiety/depression, OCD, spiritual questioning, and life transitions (breakups, new relationships, job changes, parenting).
Are you having trouble communicating with your partner? Do you struggle expressing your wants and needs with your loved ones? Are you worried that you’ll stay stuck—repeating the same conversation over and over? I understand what you’re going through. Relationships are hard and they stir up our fears and vulnerabilities. But they can also be fulfilling, exciting, and satisfying. I believe life and relationships are a journey full of transitions, twists, and turns. Sometimes these transitions are not what we expect and we’re left feeling anxious, confused, or discouraged. No matter where you find yourself, there is a way forward.
(253) 215-6418 View (253) 215-6418
Photo of Ray Kolke Counseling, Counselor in Washington
Ray Kolke Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98058  (Online Only)
If you are dealing with a controlling phobia, anxiety, or OCD, chances are you have tried traditional strategies and talk therapy and have become painfully frustrated with limited relief.
Because sometimes life sucks... I enjoy working with people who courageously get up every day despite their current suffering. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents dealing with severe anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. We will move at a pace that works for you. You may be having a difficult time and feel like giving up hope for improvement of your current situation. It is normal to have those feelings. My goal is to help you develop your awareness, skills, and confidence which can lead you to having a more meaningful life where you no longer need my services. It's time to get started and take your life back.
If you are dealing with a controlling phobia, anxiety, or OCD, chances are you have tried traditional strategies and talk therapy and have become painfully frustrated with limited relief.
Because sometimes life sucks... I enjoy working with people who courageously get up every day despite their current suffering. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents dealing with severe anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. We will move at a pace that works for you. You may be having a difficult time and feel like giving up hope for improvement of your current situation. It is normal to have those feelings. My goal is to help you develop your awareness, skills, and confidence which can lead you to having a more meaningful life where you no longer need my services. It's time to get started and take your life back.
(425) 390-8421 View (425) 390-8421
Photo of Dr. Jennifer S. Cataldi, Psychologist in Washington
Dr. Jennifer S. Cataldi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
Cataldi is also trained extensively in the delivery of cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety, OCD, and depression.
Jennifer Cataldi, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families. She has over 10 years of experience working with youth presenting with severe emotional and behavioral disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings, including schools, children’s hospitals, primary care, and university centers.
Cataldi is also trained extensively in the delivery of cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety, OCD, and depression.
Jennifer Cataldi, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families. She has over 10 years of experience working with youth presenting with severe emotional and behavioral disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings, including schools, children’s hospitals, primary care, and university centers.
(425) 541-1140 View (425) 541-1140
Photo of Dr. Julie Kinn, Psychologist in Washington
Dr. Julie Kinn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Dr. Julie Kinn, a licensed clinical and research psychologist who specializes in treatment of anxiety, OCD, intimacy, and sleep disorders using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure & response prevention (ERP), and motivational interviewing. I serve individuals age 13 and up in: Washington, Texas, Maine, and Utah. I am known for my sense of humor and my research on health technology. I have worked with adults, children, teens, and their families since 2000. I am sex-positive, encouraging, and warm in every interaction.
I'm Dr. Julie Kinn, a licensed clinical and research psychologist who specializes in treatment of anxiety, OCD, intimacy, and sleep disorders using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure & response prevention (ERP), and motivational interviewing. I serve individuals age 13 and up in: Washington, Texas, Maine, and Utah. I am known for my sense of humor and my research on health technology. I have worked with adults, children, teens, and their families since 2000. I am sex-positive, encouraging, and warm in every interaction.
(360) 641-7681 View (360) 641-7681
Photo of Torie Wiksell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Torie Wiksell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Camas, WA 98607  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm passionate about helping my clients break toxic patterns and set healthier boundaries. I specialize in working with the adult children of parents with borderline and narcissistic personality disorders. Additionally, I love to work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and OCD. My style is supportive, honest, and direct with a bit of humor sprinkled in. I love being a therapist, but I'm definitely not the perfect therapist for everyone. I'm straightforward, bubbly, and use profanity on occasion to emphasize a point.
I'm passionate about helping my clients break toxic patterns and set healthier boundaries. I specialize in working with the adult children of parents with borderline and narcissistic personality disorders. Additionally, I love to work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and OCD. My style is supportive, honest, and direct with a bit of humor sprinkled in. I love being a therapist, but I'm definitely not the perfect therapist for everyone. I'm straightforward, bubbly, and use profanity on occasion to emphasize a point.
(360) 327-8525 View (360) 327-8525
Photo of Lucy Bosche, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Lucy Bosche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
Mental health challenges can cause us to feel like we are waging a daily, silent war with ourselves. Physical tension and racing thoughts may seem to consume the entirety of your being and yet, deep down, a part of you has a sense that this is not really you. I know it is not you, too. I believe so deeply in your resilience, innate well-being, and ability to thrive beyond your current experience of anxiety and tension. I help individuals experiencing OCD, eating disorders, generalized anxiety, and patterns of addiction to live a life beyond symptom management.
Mental health challenges can cause us to feel like we are waging a daily, silent war with ourselves. Physical tension and racing thoughts may seem to consume the entirety of your being and yet, deep down, a part of you has a sense that this is not really you. I know it is not you, too. I believe so deeply in your resilience, innate well-being, and ability to thrive beyond your current experience of anxiety and tension. I help individuals experiencing OCD, eating disorders, generalized anxiety, and patterns of addiction to live a life beyond symptom management.
(360) 504-4452 x1 View (360) 504-4452 x1
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.