Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Halifax, NS

Photo of Khar Mohan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Khar Mohan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3K  (Online Only)
It's so upsetting to feel like you're not in control of your mental health. Maybe you're struggling to manage your OCD compulsions, disordered eating, or your anger and emotions. These challenges can significantly impact you AND your relationships. You may struggle with feelings of guilt, shame and embarrassment. I offer a genuine, transparent approach to healing that allows me to support you in a way that is non-judgmental, validating, and personable. I am committed to supporting clients with OCD, emotional dysregulation, eating disorders and relationship issues using skills proven effective through evidence-based research.
It's so upsetting to feel like you're not in control of your mental health. Maybe you're struggling to manage your OCD compulsions, disordered eating, or your anger and emotions. These challenges can significantly impact you AND your relationships. You may struggle with feelings of guilt, shame and embarrassment. I offer a genuine, transparent approach to healing that allows me to support you in a way that is non-judgmental, validating, and personable. I am committed to supporting clients with OCD, emotional dysregulation, eating disorders and relationship issues using skills proven effective through evidence-based research.
(782) 222-7345 View (782) 222-7345
Photo of Natalya Austin, MSW, RCSW, Registered Social Worker
Natalya Austin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3H  (Online Only)
You Matter! You don't have to fight OCD alone.
I believe in the importance of understanding, trust, connection & belonging in the therapeutic relationship as the place where change can begin. Are you experiencing OCD and Anxiety and just feeling stuck. Are you feeling tired and exhausted of doubt controlling your life? Feeling as if your trapped in the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsions that when you finally have some relief, OCD is right back it again. Have you ever wished you had a remote control or tools where you could just turn down the noise. You don't have to face OCD alone, remember OCD wants you for itself, and its time to start to breaking OCD rules.
You Matter! You don't have to fight OCD alone.
I believe in the importance of understanding, trust, connection & belonging in the therapeutic relationship as the place where change can begin. Are you experiencing OCD and Anxiety and just feeling stuck. Are you feeling tired and exhausted of doubt controlling your life? Feeling as if your trapped in the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsions that when you finally have some relief, OCD is right back it again. Have you ever wished you had a remote control or tools where you could just turn down the noise. You don't have to face OCD alone, remember OCD wants you for itself, and its time to start to breaking OCD rules.
(782) 222-5959 View (782) 222-5959
Photo of Dr. Marlene Taube-Schiff - Dr. Marlene Taube-Schiff & FTPS , PhD, CPsych, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Marlene Taube-Schiff & FTPS
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H  (Online Only)
Our interventions include CBT, ERP, Inference Based-CBT for OCD, acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness-based treatment.
At Forward Thinking Psychological Services (FTPS), we provide you with warmth, compassion and the tools you need to move ahead in your life and achieve your goals. I am a registered clinical psychologist with experience in the delivery of scientifically-supported treatments for obsessive compulsive and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues and trauma. I have worked with individuals in outpatient and inpatient hospital settings. My team is excited to work with you and help you move forward towards the life you want. We provide online therapy and assessment in Ontario, BC, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
Our interventions include CBT, ERP, Inference Based-CBT for OCD, acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness-based treatment.
At Forward Thinking Psychological Services (FTPS), we provide you with warmth, compassion and the tools you need to move ahead in your life and achieve your goals. I am a registered clinical psychologist with experience in the delivery of scientifically-supported treatments for obsessive compulsive and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues and trauma. I have worked with individuals in outpatient and inpatient hospital settings. My team is excited to work with you and help you move forward towards the life you want. We provide online therapy and assessment in Ontario, BC, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
(647) 699-6185 View (647) 699-6185
Photo of Dione Rousseau, RPC-C, Counsellor
Dione Rousseau
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3J  (Online Only)
Hi, welcome! I offer 1:1 perinatal mental health counselling and support groups to women and birthing people dealing with issues such as birth trauma, anxiety and OCD. Internal Family Systems Therapy is my primary modality with emphasis on feminist psychology. I also incorporate Jungian feminine and ancient Goddess archetypes as a powerful tool to aid in bringing awareness to and embodying empowering qualities that may have been forgotten or exiled. In our sessions together we will meet your inner child(ren) and discover what you need(ed) to bring healing to past wounds and wisdom to current challenges.
Hi, welcome! I offer 1:1 perinatal mental health counselling and support groups to women and birthing people dealing with issues such as birth trauma, anxiety and OCD. Internal Family Systems Therapy is my primary modality with emphasis on feminist psychology. I also incorporate Jungian feminine and ancient Goddess archetypes as a powerful tool to aid in bringing awareness to and embodying empowering qualities that may have been forgotten or exiled. In our sessions together we will meet your inner child(ren) and discover what you need(ed) to bring healing to past wounds and wisdom to current challenges.
(249) 488-1474 View (249) 488-1474
Photo of Melissa Walker, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Melissa Walker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H  (Online Only)
With lived experience of OCD, I understand that taking the first step towards recovery can be doubtful, but you can do it.
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts, images, impulses or urges that cause you anxiety? Are you confined to a personal prison due to your compulsions? You’re not alone. Obsessive compulsive disorder can be incredibly debilitating, but there is hope. You can take back control of your life, and I can help you get there.
With lived experience of OCD, I understand that taking the first step towards recovery can be doubtful, but you can do it.
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts, images, impulses or urges that cause you anxiety? Are you confined to a personal prison due to your compulsions? You’re not alone. Obsessive compulsive disorder can be incredibly debilitating, but there is hope. You can take back control of your life, and I can help you get there.
(249) 209-0263 View (249) 209-0263
Photo of Dr. Jamie C. Farquhar, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Jamie C. Farquhar
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, food avoidances and difficulties eating) and body image concerns (body dysmorphic disorder, poor body image). I also work with adults who experience: anxiety disorders (panic disorder, agoraphobia, phobias, social anxiety disorder, excessive worry/generalized anxiety disorder); obsessive-compulsive disorder; posttraumatic stress disorder; and depression.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, food avoidances and difficulties eating) and body image concerns (body dysmorphic disorder, poor body image). I also work with adults who experience: anxiety disorders (panic disorder, agoraphobia, phobias, social anxiety disorder, excessive worry/generalized anxiety disorder); obsessive-compulsive disorder; posttraumatic stress disorder; and depression.
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Photo of Lynn MacKenzie, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Lynn MacKenzie
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H
I specialize in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, psychosis and psychotic-like experiences (substance-induced psychosis, early psychosis, schizophrenia, mood disorders with psychotic features), mood disorders (bipolar disorders, major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder) and anxiety disorders (social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and specific phobias), obsessive-compulsive disorder and related disorders ( hair pulling disorder, skin picking disorder, body focused repetitive behaviours), and substance use disorders.
I specialize in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, psychosis and psychotic-like experiences (substance-induced psychosis, early psychosis, schizophrenia, mood disorders with psychotic features), mood disorders (bipolar disorders, major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder) and anxiety disorders (social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and specific phobias), obsessive-compulsive disorder and related disorders ( hair pulling disorder, skin picking disorder, body focused repetitive behaviours), and substance use disorders.
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Photo of Maeve MacDougall With Scotia Psychological Services, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Maeve MacDougall With Scotia Psychological Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3K  (Online Only)
I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My goal is to support you to make positive changes, enhance your wellbeing, and feel resilient and empowered. I work with older adolescents and adults coping with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, psychosis (including voice hearing), obsessive-compulsive disorder, attentional and focus challenges (including ADHD), attachment challenges, chronic health issues, grief, loss, adjustment to major life transitions, daily stressors and relationship issues.
I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My goal is to support you to make positive changes, enhance your wellbeing, and feel resilient and empowered. I work with older adolescents and adults coping with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, psychosis (including voice hearing), obsessive-compulsive disorder, attentional and focus challenges (including ADHD), attachment challenges, chronic health issues, grief, loss, adjustment to major life transitions, daily stressors and relationship issues.
(782) 400-0445 View (782) 400-0445
Photo of Harpreet Aulakh - Aulakh Psychological & Counselling Services, Psychologist
Aulakh Psychological & Counselling Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3K
Our team has extensive experience in working with clients with a range of mental health concerns and life stressors including: anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, stress, depression, adjustment to major life challenges, trauma, loss and grief, relationships concerns, coping with workplace difficulties and/or burnout, and chronic disabilities/illnesses.
We are a team of experienced Registered Psychologists offering compassionate, collaborative and personalized care consistent with best practices. Together we offer services to clients of various ages and developmental stages. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, parents and couples. We also work closely with individuals who work in or have worked in high risk settings such as veterans, first responders and corrections officers.
Our team has extensive experience in working with clients with a range of mental health concerns and life stressors including: anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, stress, depression, adjustment to major life challenges, trauma, loss and grief, relationships concerns, coping with workplace difficulties and/or burnout, and chronic disabilities/illnesses.
We are a team of experienced Registered Psychologists offering compassionate, collaborative and personalized care consistent with best practices. Together we offer services to clients of various ages and developmental stages. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, parents and couples. We also work closely with individuals who work in or have worked in high risk settings such as veterans, first responders and corrections officers.
(902) 812-0609 View (902) 812-0609
Photo of Gina Keegan, RCC, SEP, Counsellor
Gina Keegan
Counsellor, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3M
I work with the following diagnosis; GAD, PTSD, Panic attacks, Grief, Trauma, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Do you feel frozen, anxious, only working at half capacity? Or....are you usually frustrated, angry, sad, confused? Or...are you mad at many people and situations, including your personal relationships? I use cognitive, emotive and somatic (body) approaches. My extensive experience has shown me that counseling with the SOMATIC aspect included usually gets the DEEPEST AND QUICKEST RESULTS. I am an SEP., Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, from Peter Levine's trauma work.
I work with the following diagnosis; GAD, PTSD, Panic attacks, Grief, Trauma, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Do you feel frozen, anxious, only working at half capacity? Or....are you usually frustrated, angry, sad, confused? Or...are you mad at many people and situations, including your personal relationships? I use cognitive, emotive and somatic (body) approaches. My extensive experience has shown me that counseling with the SOMATIC aspect included usually gets the DEEPEST AND QUICKEST RESULTS. I am an SEP., Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, from Peter Levine's trauma work.
(782) 222-6387 View (782) 222-6387
Photo of Dr. Natalie Stratton, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Natalie Stratton
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3J
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of adults and couples/relationships experiencing: anxiety disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual issues/dysfunction (low sexual desire, pain during sexual activity, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, lack of orgasm, out-of-control sexual behaviour, specific sexual interests), insomnia, difficulty coping with medical conditions (infertility, HIV, cancer, pregnancy/postpartum, menopause), as well as relationship issues (e.g., communication difficulties, infidelity, sexual desire discrepancies, open or polyamory relationship issues).
I specialize in the treatment of adults and couples/relationships experiencing: anxiety disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual issues/dysfunction (low sexual desire, pain during sexual activity, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, lack of orgasm, out-of-control sexual behaviour, specific sexual interests), insomnia, difficulty coping with medical conditions (infertility, HIV, cancer, pregnancy/postpartum, menopause), as well as relationship issues (e.g., communication difficulties, infidelity, sexual desire discrepancies, open or polyamory relationship issues).
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Photo of Alicia Berze-Butts, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alicia Berze-Butts
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3J
Alicia offers quality training and experience providing assessments and psychotherapy for adult clients (ages 17+ years) with a wide variety of mental health challenges, including issues with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), ADHD, self-esteem, body image, work/school stress, grief, and interpersonal relationships (e.g., relationships with romantic partners, friends, and/or family members).
Alicia offers quality training and experience providing assessments and psychotherapy for adult clients (ages 17+ years) with a wide variety of mental health challenges, including issues with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), ADHD, self-esteem, body image, work/school stress, grief, and interpersonal relationships (e.g., relationships with romantic partners, friends, and/or family members).
(782) 201-0622 View (782) 201-0622
Photo of Miguel Robichaud, PsyD, Psychologist
Miguel Robichaud
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3K
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is general in scope. I work with individuals presenting with anxiety, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorders, major depressive disorders, and other mood-related conditions. I also work with individuals presenting with personality disorders, trauma and other relational/interpersonal difficulties. I provide comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessment services (e.g., ADHD, ASD, brain Injury, personality and interpersonal functioning). Over time, my clients' symptoms reduce, and we shift focus to finding meaning and fulfillment in life.
My practice is general in scope. I work with individuals presenting with anxiety, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorders, major depressive disorders, and other mood-related conditions. I also work with individuals presenting with personality disorders, trauma and other relational/interpersonal difficulties. I provide comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessment services (e.g., ADHD, ASD, brain Injury, personality and interpersonal functioning). Over time, my clients' symptoms reduce, and we shift focus to finding meaning and fulfillment in life.
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Photo of Tomas Jurcik, PhD, RPsych, OPQ, Psychologist
Tomas Jurcik
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych, OPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3L
Are you looking for practical and empathetic help for depression, panic, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress, or OCD? I specialize in the treatment of these issues using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a highly effective evidence-based approach. However, I don't just focus on therapy technique: having a solid relationship and a trusting working alliance with any therapist is key to productive change. In addition to therapy, I conduct diagnostic, personality, and career assessments. I confidentially counsel clients all over BC online and in-person at my Port Moody office.
Are you looking for practical and empathetic help for depression, panic, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress, or OCD? I specialize in the treatment of these issues using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a highly effective evidence-based approach. However, I don't just focus on therapy technique: having a solid relationship and a trusting working alliance with any therapist is key to productive change. In addition to therapy, I conduct diagnostic, personality, and career assessments. I confidentially counsel clients all over BC online and in-person at my Port Moody office.
(855) 974-4425 View (855) 974-4425
Photo of Chris DeWolfe, Psychologist
Chris DeWolfe
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3H  (Online Only)
I am a Psychologist (Candidate Register) who provides sport psychology services to adolescent and adult athletes. I also work with individuals experiencing a variety of mental health difficulties including: eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, food avoidances and difficulties eating), body image concerns, anxiety disorders (panic disorder, agoraphobia, phobias, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder), obsessive- compulsive disorder, and depression.
I am a Psychologist (Candidate Register) who provides sport psychology services to adolescent and adult athletes. I also work with individuals experiencing a variety of mental health difficulties including: eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, food avoidances and difficulties eating), body image concerns, anxiety disorders (panic disorder, agoraphobia, phobias, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder), obsessive- compulsive disorder, and depression.
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Photo of Beatrice M. E. Breitling, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Beatrice M. E. Breitling
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3J
I treat a wide range of problems: depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive disorder, self-esteem, body dysmorphia and sleep issues, chronic illness, life transitions and grief.
In times of life challenges, we suffer not only as individuals but also in our relationships. Since 2008, it has been my passion to support individuals, couples and families in their quest to turn personal and relationship challenges into opportunities for personal growth and greater connection. I specialize in helping clients to overcome their personal barriers, often resulting from childhood hurts and attachment wounds, to create nurturing, loving and caring relationships. I am passionate about supporting my clients to unfold their potential to heal and grow as individuals and in their relationships with others.
I treat a wide range of problems: depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive disorder, self-esteem, body dysmorphia and sleep issues, chronic illness, life transitions and grief.
In times of life challenges, we suffer not only as individuals but also in our relationships. Since 2008, it has been my passion to support individuals, couples and families in their quest to turn personal and relationship challenges into opportunities for personal growth and greater connection. I specialize in helping clients to overcome their personal barriers, often resulting from childhood hurts and attachment wounds, to create nurturing, loving and caring relationships. I am passionate about supporting my clients to unfold their potential to heal and grow as individuals and in their relationships with others.
(902) 904-5582 View (902) 904-5582
Photo of Samantha Difrancescantonio - Risework Therapy, MSW, RSW, RP, Registered Social Worker
Risework Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3K
Personable, experienced therapists integrating evidence-based methods with a conversational approach with an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. We provide clients with a non-judgmental, safe space that facilitates openness and encourages self-exploration. At Risework Therapy we specialize in anxiety, self-worth, relationship issues, and trauma. We also have therapists who specialize in trauma, attachment, OCD and eating disorders. Our team of therapists pride themselves in being approachable, personable and genuine. We want you to feel like you can be your authentic self as you allow us to support you in life's challenges.
Personable, experienced therapists integrating evidence-based methods with a conversational approach with an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. We provide clients with a non-judgmental, safe space that facilitates openness and encourages self-exploration. At Risework Therapy we specialize in anxiety, self-worth, relationship issues, and trauma. We also have therapists who specialize in trauma, attachment, OCD and eating disorders. Our team of therapists pride themselves in being approachable, personable and genuine. We want you to feel like you can be your authentic self as you allow us to support you in life's challenges.
(647) 649-4929 View (647) 649-4929
Photo of Dr. Patrick McGrath, OC, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Patrick McGrath
Psychologist, OC, CPsych
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3H  (Online Only)
Dr. McGrath is a Clinical Psychologist and an Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry at Dalhousie University. His extensive career has included being a clinician, researcher, administrator and social entrepreneur. Patrick has now returned to his first love, working with clients. He has extensive experience with all forms of Anxiety, Depression, OCD and PTSD. He works with clients that have health problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia and headaches.
Dr. McGrath is a Clinical Psychologist and an Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry at Dalhousie University. His extensive career has included being a clinician, researcher, administrator and social entrepreneur. Patrick has now returned to his first love, working with clients. He has extensive experience with all forms of Anxiety, Depression, OCD and PTSD. He works with clients that have health problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia and headaches.
(343) 501-3194 View (343) 501-3194
Photo of Lisa Grady, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Lisa Grady
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H
My therapeutic areas of interest include, but are not limited to: stress, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), trauma, relationship challenges, parenting challenges, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and self-esteem/assertiveness.
Currently welcoming new clients! When working with me, you can expect an allied approach to care, where your individuality is not only respected but celebrated. I offer a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can safely and openly share your story.
My therapeutic areas of interest include, but are not limited to: stress, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), trauma, relationship challenges, parenting challenges, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and self-esteem/assertiveness.
Currently welcoming new clients! When working with me, you can expect an allied approach to care, where your individuality is not only respected but celebrated. I offer a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can safely and openly share your story.
(782) 201-4035 View (782) 201-4035
Photo of Lisa Anne Wood Boniferro, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Anne Wood Boniferro
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3H  (Online Only)
Are you ready to start your journey? I started my work in mental health with a primary goal in mind: providing access to mental health treatments that are designed to work. I treat the following using Cognitive Behaviour Therapies: Eating and body image concerns, including loss-of-control eating; PTSD; mood and anxiety disorders; and OCD. I am invested in delivering the active ingredients of evidence based psychotherapies that give you the best chance at recovery. My hope is that you can move from coping with your struggles to achieving freedom from these struggles over time. I am registered in both Ontario and Nova Scotia.
Are you ready to start your journey? I started my work in mental health with a primary goal in mind: providing access to mental health treatments that are designed to work. I treat the following using Cognitive Behaviour Therapies: Eating and body image concerns, including loss-of-control eating; PTSD; mood and anxiety disorders; and OCD. I am invested in delivering the active ingredients of evidence based psychotherapies that give you the best chance at recovery. My hope is that you can move from coping with your struggles to achieving freedom from these struggles over time. I am registered in both Ontario and Nova Scotia.
(226) 641-5933 View (226) 641-5933
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Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counsellors

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, fluoxetine, and sertraline, 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.