Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Fort Erie, ON

Photo of Believe Uwabor, RP(Q), BA, RBT, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Believe Uwabor
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), BA, RBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Erie, ON L2A  (Online Only)
Guiding clients through a deep exploration into their racial identity, navigate parenting challenges, managing Autism and neurodivergent traits. My experience also extends to supporting individuals, families, and couples who have not yet mastered the ability to manage symptoms of ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and mood disorders. I specialize in supporting and addressing various adult mental health concerns, while supporting individuals and couples of diverse racial and cultural backgrounds as they explore their unique identities and navigate the complexities of social expectations.
Guiding clients through a deep exploration into their racial identity, navigate parenting challenges, managing Autism and neurodivergent traits. My experience also extends to supporting individuals, families, and couples who have not yet mastered the ability to manage symptoms of ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and mood disorders. I specialize in supporting and addressing various adult mental health concerns, while supporting individuals and couples of diverse racial and cultural backgrounds as they explore their unique identities and navigate the complexities of social expectations.
(289) 274-3609 View (289) 274-3609
Photo of Dannika Mete - Mindful Footsteps Counselling , BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mindful Footsteps Counselling
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Fort Erie, ON L2A
Welcome! Thanks for taking the first step in your healing journey! Are you ready to invest in yourself and build better coping skills for navigating life easier? Are you wanting to decrease stress and anxiety? Build skills for managing ADHD? Navigate parenting a toddler or child easier? I enjoy working with female-identifying youth, adults and mothers who are committed to therapy. My promise to you is that you will achieve your results quicker in therapy by maintaining motivation and completing homework tasks assigned.
Welcome! Thanks for taking the first step in your healing journey! Are you ready to invest in yourself and build better coping skills for navigating life easier? Are you wanting to decrease stress and anxiety? Build skills for managing ADHD? Navigate parenting a toddler or child easier? I enjoy working with female-identifying youth, adults and mothers who are committed to therapy. My promise to you is that you will achieve your results quicker in therapy by maintaining motivation and completing homework tasks assigned.
(289) 210-5935 View (289) 210-5935
Skerrett Psychology Professional Corporation
Psychologist, MSCP, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Erie, ON L2A
We are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment to encourage recovery, healing, and empowerment.
We are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment to encourage recovery, healing, and empowerment.
(365) 305-0457 View (365) 305-0457
Photo of Amanda Katherine Fidler - Checking In Counselling & Consulting, MA, RP, CHyp, Registered Psychotherapist
Checking In Counselling & Consulting
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CHyp
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Erie, ON L2A
Checking In Counselling & Consulting provides a range of therapeutic services designed to help clients engage in a process of self-discovery and improvement. Our therapeutic approach encourages clients to 'check in' with themselves, meaning to become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours as a pathway to healing and growth. The services offered by Checking In include individual, couples, and family therapy for clients of all ages. For clients who cannot attend in person, Checking In also offers remote services through video or phone sessions, ensuring accessibility and convenience. www.checkingintherapy.ca
Checking In Counselling & Consulting provides a range of therapeutic services designed to help clients engage in a process of self-discovery and improvement. Our therapeutic approach encourages clients to 'check in' with themselves, meaning to become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours as a pathway to healing and growth. The services offered by Checking In include individual, couples, and family therapy for clients of all ages. For clients who cannot attend in person, Checking In also offers remote services through video or phone sessions, ensuring accessibility and convenience. www.checkingintherapy.ca
(289) 277-5551 View (289) 277-5551
Photo of Susan M Chudzik-Sipos - CBT Niagara (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Centre), CPsych, Psychologist
CBT Niagara (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Centre)
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Fort Erie, ON L2A
Feeling Depressed? Frustrated? Anxious? CBT Niagara can help you change the way you are thinking, feeling, and responding to certain stressors. CBT is a well researched form of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It is short-term therapy designed to teach skills and strategies so a person can gain better control of their life. At CBT Niagara, in St. Catharines, we run therapy groups as well as provide individual sessions. CBT Niagara is run by registered members of the College of Psychologists thus patients can access their workplace benefits.
Feeling Depressed? Frustrated? Anxious? CBT Niagara can help you change the way you are thinking, feeling, and responding to certain stressors. CBT is a well researched form of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It is short-term therapy designed to teach skills and strategies so a person can gain better control of their life. At CBT Niagara, in St. Catharines, we run therapy groups as well as provide individual sessions. CBT Niagara is run by registered members of the College of Psychologists thus patients can access their workplace benefits.
(289) 276-1295 View (289) 276-1295
Photo of Steve Abma - Abma Counselling Group, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Abma Counselling Group
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Erie, ON L2A
You're seeking change but feel stuck. Whether it's the weight of trauma, the tangle of relationships, or the grip of anxiety, you're looking for a Niagara-based therapist who truly gets you and can guide you towards the life you've always wanted.
You're seeking change but feel stuck. Whether it's the weight of trauma, the tangle of relationships, or the grip of anxiety, you're looking for a Niagara-based therapist who truly gets you and can guide you towards the life you've always wanted.
(905) 321-0550 View (905) 321-0550
Photo of Steffany Murray, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Steffany Murray
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Erie, ON L2A
I have an interest in utilizing a collaborative and compassionate approach with clients. I have experience supporting individuals through depression and grief, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, disordered eating. My goal is to ensure you feel heard, supported and empowered as you through your own process of healing.
I have an interest in utilizing a collaborative and compassionate approach with clients. I have experience supporting individuals through depression and grief, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, disordered eating. My goal is to ensure you feel heard, supported and empowered as you through your own process of healing.
(289) 276-8412 View (289) 276-8412

Online Therapists

Photo of Sarah Anne Innes, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Anne Innes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Do you feel like anxiety is holding you back? Are you stuck in the cycle of self-doubt? It’s okay to feel this way, and you are not alone. As a therapist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults, I understand some of the unique challenges you face. I’m here to help you navigate life challenges and find a path forward that feels right for you. Together, we'll work through any anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, or decision-making challenges you are facing. Let's work together to help you feel more confident, empowered, and in control of your life.
Do you feel like anxiety is holding you back? Are you stuck in the cycle of self-doubt? It’s okay to feel this way, and you are not alone. As a therapist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults, I understand some of the unique challenges you face. I’m here to help you navigate life challenges and find a path forward that feels right for you. Together, we'll work through any anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, or decision-making challenges you are facing. Let's work together to help you feel more confident, empowered, and in control of your life.
(647) 360-2453 View (647) 360-2453
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Fraccaro, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca Fraccaro
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, ON L4G
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Are you feeling overwhelmed with questions about your child's development? Worrying about your child’s performance in school? Are you or your child struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you have questions about ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, Anxiety, OCD, or Depression? My team and I at The Thought Centre offer evidence-based therapy to reduce anxiety, increase mood, and boost social relationships. We also offer comprehensive psychological assessments to answer various diagnostic questions. You can rest assured that you are in good hands with our team of skilled professionals.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Are you feeling overwhelmed with questions about your child's development? Worrying about your child’s performance in school? Are you or your child struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you have questions about ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, Anxiety, OCD, or Depression? My team and I at The Thought Centre offer evidence-based therapy to reduce anxiety, increase mood, and boost social relationships. We also offer comprehensive psychological assessments to answer various diagnostic questions. You can rest assured that you are in good hands with our team of skilled professionals.
(647) 286-1770 View (647) 286-1770
Photo of Charlie Parker-McKay, MA, HBA, Registered Psychotherapist
Charlie Parker-McKay
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, HBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with ADHD and/or autistic 2SLGBTQ+ youth and adults, and those with lived experiences of discrimination, chronic illness/pain, childhood and complex trauma, OCD, PTSD/C-PTSD, and anxiety.
I am an AuDHD non-binary lesbian therapist that operates an intersectional, anti-racist 2SLGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming practice. I know from experience that growing up neurodivergent can often be traumatic, and made even harder when you are undiagnosed, unsupported, or experiencing gender or race-based discrimination. Identifying as neurodivergent and unmasking as an adult can be freeing, confusing, scary, and can bring up past traumas. I can help you explore your values and intersecting identities, build self-compassion, set boundaries, identify needs and accommodations, and heal from complex traumas.
I specialize in working with ADHD and/or autistic 2SLGBTQ+ youth and adults, and those with lived experiences of discrimination, chronic illness/pain, childhood and complex trauma, OCD, PTSD/C-PTSD, and anxiety.
I am an AuDHD non-binary lesbian therapist that operates an intersectional, anti-racist 2SLGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming practice. I know from experience that growing up neurodivergent can often be traumatic, and made even harder when you are undiagnosed, unsupported, or experiencing gender or race-based discrimination. Identifying as neurodivergent and unmasking as an adult can be freeing, confusing, scary, and can bring up past traumas. I can help you explore your values and intersecting identities, build self-compassion, set boundaries, identify needs and accommodations, and heal from complex traumas.
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Photo of Sumayya Mehmood, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sumayya Mehmood
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
Sumayya holds a Masters in Social Work from the University of Toronto, and is a Registered Social Worker / Psychotherapist. With clinical training completed at Toronto Western Hospital, she has experience supporting diverse populations and working with individuals, families, and couples. Some presenting issues she is skilled in addressing include: anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioural addictions, family and social issues, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, personal and professional development, and self-improvement.
Sumayya holds a Masters in Social Work from the University of Toronto, and is a Registered Social Worker / Psychotherapist. With clinical training completed at Toronto Western Hospital, she has experience supporting diverse populations and working with individuals, families, and couples. Some presenting issues she is skilled in addressing include: anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioural addictions, family and social issues, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, personal and professional development, and self-improvement.
(289) 723-1904 View (289) 723-1904
Photo of Dione Rousseau, RPC-C, Counsellor
Dione Rousseau
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1M  (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 Savannah Finnessey, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Savannah Finnessey
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
We all experience points in our lives that can be challenging to manage. Traumatic events, loss, conflict, and crisis impact all of us. When these difficulties begin to impede our daily functioning, mood, and relationships, social workers can help by providing psychotherapy. I am committed to a collaborative, encouraging, and non-judgmental approach which supports self-awareness, healing and growth. My areas of expertise include helping teens and young adults (ages 13-25) overcome anxiety, trauma, depression, panic, agoraphobia, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, chronic pain, and a range of mental health disorders. 2SLGBTQ+ safe space.
We all experience points in our lives that can be challenging to manage. Traumatic events, loss, conflict, and crisis impact all of us. When these difficulties begin to impede our daily functioning, mood, and relationships, social workers can help by providing psychotherapy. I am committed to a collaborative, encouraging, and non-judgmental approach which supports self-awareness, healing and growth. My areas of expertise include helping teens and young adults (ages 13-25) overcome anxiety, trauma, depression, panic, agoraphobia, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, chronic pain, and a range of mental health disorders. 2SLGBTQ+ safe space.
(647) 699-3743 View (647) 699-3743
Photo of Phyllis Ng - Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C
Our therapists specialize in supporting clients to manage issues related to depression, anxiety, OCD, stress, relationships, parenting, school difficulties, borderline personality disorder and more.
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services values creating a therapeutic space that is culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and client-centered. We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists, social workers and masters level interns, who bring a variety of clinical expertise to support our clients with different needs. We strive to always provide clients with a safe and private experience where they are open to sharing their stories with us. At Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, our therapists are devoted to creating individualized treatment plans that fit your goals and empower you to make meaningful changes for a fulfilling life.
Our therapists specialize in supporting clients to manage issues related to depression, anxiety, OCD, stress, relationships, parenting, school difficulties, borderline personality disorder and more.
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services values creating a therapeutic space that is culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and client-centered. We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists, social workers and masters level interns, who bring a variety of clinical expertise to support our clients with different needs. We strive to always provide clients with a safe and private experience where they are open to sharing their stories with us. At Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, our therapists are devoted to creating individualized treatment plans that fit your goals and empower you to make meaningful changes for a fulfilling life.
(289) 210-9485 View (289) 210-9485
Photo of Isabelle Bauer, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Isabelle Bauer
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
I work with adults experiencing various mental health challenges including but not limited to Depression, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Simple Phobias, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Health Anxiety, Perfectionism, Procrastination, Adjustment Difficulties, Stress management.
I am a registered clinical psychologist providing Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based treatment that has been found to be effective in the treatment of mood and anxiety-related difficulties. I worked as a staff clinical psychologist in the Mood Disorders Program at CAMH where I gained extensive experience in psychological assessments and the delivery of individual & group cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I also worked at a university counselling centre since 2013, providing CBT to students dealing with a variety of mental health problems.
I work with adults experiencing various mental health challenges including but not limited to Depression, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Simple Phobias, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Health Anxiety, Perfectionism, Procrastination, Adjustment Difficulties, Stress management.
I am a registered clinical psychologist providing Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based treatment that has been found to be effective in the treatment of mood and anxiety-related difficulties. I worked as a staff clinical psychologist in the Mood Disorders Program at CAMH where I gained extensive experience in psychological assessments and the delivery of individual & group cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I also worked at a university counselling centre since 2013, providing CBT to students dealing with a variety of mental health problems.
(647) 424-0379 View (647) 424-0379
Photo of Wai Cheng, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Wai Cheng
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3P  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I apply a client-centered approach, and provide evidence-based treatments for clients struggling with mood disorders, panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD).
Are you trying your best to manage your life but still feeling stuck, confused, unmotivated, depressed or anxious? Welcome to Soulroom Psychotherapy. I believe that every soul needs to be heard and understood. Most importantly, you have to help your own soul as they are crying for your attention. Soulroom provides a safe space for our soul to rest and heal, especially in this unsettling time of the world. I believe that every emotion you experience are the signals telling us to take appropriate timely care of yourself. It is just like catching a cold or flu so you may need to slow down and take good care of yourself.
I apply a client-centered approach, and provide evidence-based treatments for clients struggling with mood disorders, panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD).
Are you trying your best to manage your life but still feeling stuck, confused, unmotivated, depressed or anxious? Welcome to Soulroom Psychotherapy. I believe that every soul needs to be heard and understood. Most importantly, you have to help your own soul as they are crying for your attention. Soulroom provides a safe space for our soul to rest and heal, especially in this unsettling time of the world. I believe that every emotion you experience are the signals telling us to take appropriate timely care of yourself. It is just like catching a cold or flu so you may need to slow down and take good care of yourself.
(289) 512-2604 View (289) 512-2604
Photo of Melinda Zourntos, RP, MBA, BASc, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Melinda Zourntos
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MBA, BASc, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5G
I offer individual and couples counselling for a variety of issues using a collaborative approach, within a judgement free environment. The majority of my experience revolves around using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness based approaches, and Existential Therapy. I am also most familiar with mental health issues regarding anxiety, depression, stress, postpartum issues, obsessive compulsive tendencies, and self-esteem.
I offer individual and couples counselling for a variety of issues using a collaborative approach, within a judgement free environment. The majority of my experience revolves around using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness based approaches, and Existential Therapy. I am also most familiar with mental health issues regarding anxiety, depression, stress, postpartum issues, obsessive compulsive tendencies, and self-esteem.
(289) 276-8174 View (289) 276-8174
Photo of Arzu Ferguson, MSc, CPsych, Psychologist
Arzu Ferguson
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
Life isn’t fair and it’s definitely not easy. No one should have to go through difficult life challenges alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Maybe you are not sure what to do next. I have over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of children, teens and adults. As a licensed Clinical and Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, my utmost goal is to make you feel safe, unjudged and listened. I thrive to provide a caring and welcoming environment. I have helped many people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality, OCD, Panic attacks, Health Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD and Autism.
Life isn’t fair and it’s definitely not easy. No one should have to go through difficult life challenges alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Maybe you are not sure what to do next. I have over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of children, teens and adults. As a licensed Clinical and Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, my utmost goal is to make you feel safe, unjudged and listened. I thrive to provide a caring and welcoming environment. I have helped many people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality, OCD, Panic attacks, Health Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD and Autism.
(289) 302-5824 View (289) 302-5824
Photo of Kimberly Edwards, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Kimberly Edwards
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5E  (Online Only)
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of anxiety / phobias, low mood / depression, ADHD, OCD, repetitive behaviour disorders (e.
Hi, I'm Dr. Kim Edwards a Clinical and Health Psychologist registered in Ontario and New York. I am the Founder of MindFit, a leading 35+ clinician private practice, or what I prefer to call a "mental health gym". Seeking support can be stigmatizing and impersonal - but it doesn't need to be! Just like a typical gym, MindFit is designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. I use effective, evidence-based treatments and most importantly, do everything I can to ensure you feel supported, accepted, and valued. Still not sure? Check out my reviews at ratemds.com or Google!
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of anxiety / phobias, low mood / depression, ADHD, OCD, repetitive behaviour disorders (e.
Hi, I'm Dr. Kim Edwards a Clinical and Health Psychologist registered in Ontario and New York. I am the Founder of MindFit, a leading 35+ clinician private practice, or what I prefer to call a "mental health gym". Seeking support can be stigmatizing and impersonal - but it doesn't need to be! Just like a typical gym, MindFit is designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. I use effective, evidence-based treatments and most importantly, do everything I can to ensure you feel supported, accepted, and valued. Still not sure? Check out my reviews at ratemds.com or Google!
(437) 747-5087 View (437) 747-5087
Photo of Bernard Kehler - CBT Solutions - Bernard Kehler, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
CBT Solutions - Bernard Kehler
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8R
Are you ready to feel better? Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is a proven, effective treatment to help you work through life's challenges. If you are looking for relief from anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, specific phobias, distress, or overwhelming emotions, CBT may be the right therapy for you. Using a variety of tools and strategies, CBT helps us to see how our thought patterns influence how we feel, and how we act in the world. Our thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and our body are so connected - each one re-inforces the other, making it very easy to get caught in a downward spiral.
Are you ready to feel better? Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is a proven, effective treatment to help you work through life's challenges. If you are looking for relief from anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, specific phobias, distress, or overwhelming emotions, CBT may be the right therapy for you. Using a variety of tools and strategies, CBT helps us to see how our thought patterns influence how we feel, and how we act in the world. Our thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and our body are so connected - each one re-inforces the other, making it very easy to get caught in a downward spiral.
(365) 363-0075 View (365) 363-0075

See more therapy options for Fort Erie

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.