Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in North York, ON

Photo of Daniel Seddon, MACP, CPsych, Psychologist
Daniel Seddon
Psychologist, MACP, CPsych
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2K  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with OCD and/or other anxiety problems. Do you struggle with unwanted, bothersome thoughts about harm, germs, relationships, or sexual themes? Are you stuck in a cycle of excessive worry that you can't seem to stop no matter what you do? Do you find yourself engaging in repetitive behaviours only for the anxiety to return? These are my areas of practice and I want to help.
I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with OCD and/or other anxiety problems. Do you struggle with unwanted, bothersome thoughts about harm, germs, relationships, or sexual themes? Are you stuck in a cycle of excessive worry that you can't seem to stop no matter what you do? Do you find yourself engaging in repetitive behaviours only for the anxiety to return? These are my areas of practice and I want to help.
(365) 297-2742 View (365) 297-2742
Photo of Pinny Stern, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Pinny Stern
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M6A
I have worked extensively with clients struggling with anxiety, OCD, low self esteem, and mood disorders, and many other issues.
I have had the privilege of working with the adolescent and young adult population for over 20 years. Through these years I have gained the keen understanding of the ever-changing challenges and needs of this population. My extensive experience gives me the edge in working with adolescents and families who are struggling with all sorts of issues. I have been blessed with the opportunity of helping hundreds of individuals and families deal with and overcome their struggles and regain control of their lives. I am also trained in EFT marraige counseling - enhancing relationships and enriching lives.
I have worked extensively with clients struggling with anxiety, OCD, low self esteem, and mood disorders, and many other issues.
I have had the privilege of working with the adolescent and young adult population for over 20 years. Through these years I have gained the keen understanding of the ever-changing challenges and needs of this population. My extensive experience gives me the edge in working with adolescents and families who are struggling with all sorts of issues. I have been blessed with the opportunity of helping hundreds of individuals and families deal with and overcome their struggles and regain control of their lives. I am also trained in EFT marraige counseling - enhancing relationships and enriching lives.
(855) 782-5795 View (855) 782-5795
Photo of Danielle Kirshenbaum, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Danielle Kirshenbaum
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M2R  (Online Only)
I support clients dealing with anxiety, OCD, and many other mood and life challenges.
Are you struggling with persistent, unwelcome thoughts? Experiencing a sense of overwhelm, feeling stuck, or a lack of control? If so, I am here to navigate this journey alongside you. It's natural to fear that these distressing emotions will endure, but rest assured, with the appropriate tools, there is absolutely no reason that they have to. I am a compassionate down-to-earth therapist who truly cares about my clients. Together, we will explore new coping mechanisms so that you can feel like yourself again.
I support clients dealing with anxiety, OCD, and many other mood and life challenges.
Are you struggling with persistent, unwelcome thoughts? Experiencing a sense of overwhelm, feeling stuck, or a lack of control? If so, I am here to navigate this journey alongside you. It's natural to fear that these distressing emotions will endure, but rest assured, with the appropriate tools, there is absolutely no reason that they have to. I am a compassionate down-to-earth therapist who truly cares about my clients. Together, we will explore new coping mechanisms so that you can feel like yourself again.
(289) 271-0955 View (289) 271-0955
Photo of Annette Poizner, MSW, EdD, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Annette Poizner
Registered Social Worker, MSW, EdD, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North York, ON M2N  (Online Only)
I analyze your short essay/childhood memories/dreams you bring in - to figure you out FAST: personality style, intra-psychic function, core issues, growth edge, strengths, challenges. Step A: extensive feedback, this 360 also considers nutrition, lifestyle, cognitive style, a download re: you! Then, IF indicated, EMDR, NLP, IFS to architect change. I specialize in some (not all) problems that have been unresponsive to conventional psychotherapy (i.e. OCD). I use Jungian, Eastern, & TCM wisdom, Ericksonian methods to engineer change on an unconscious level. I don't work with substance or alcohol abuse, Borderline, risk of suicide.
I analyze your short essay/childhood memories/dreams you bring in - to figure you out FAST: personality style, intra-psychic function, core issues, growth edge, strengths, challenges. Step A: extensive feedback, this 360 also considers nutrition, lifestyle, cognitive style, a download re: you! Then, IF indicated, EMDR, NLP, IFS to architect change. I specialize in some (not all) problems that have been unresponsive to conventional psychotherapy (i.e. OCD). I use Jungian, Eastern, & TCM wisdom, Ericksonian methods to engineer change on an unconscious level. I don't work with substance or alcohol abuse, Borderline, risk of suicide.
(289) 278-6739 View (289) 278-6739
Photo of Melissa Walker, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Melissa Walker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M3A  (Online Only)
I work with folks who are experiencing the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder.
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.
I work with folks who are experiencing the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder.
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 Jayne Hanna, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Jayne Hanna
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2J
I am Registered Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years of experience helping people overcome obstacles in their lives and develop resiliency. I have had experience working with individuals with anxiety (panic attacks, GAD, OCD) as well as numerous other mental health needs. I have a strong passion for providing ongoing and equitable support to my clients. I treat a large variety of mental health difficulties that you may be facing in a collaborative and non-judgemental way. By working with me, you will set goals and learn how to achieve them tailored to your needs and develop strong self-esteem.
I am Registered Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years of experience helping people overcome obstacles in their lives and develop resiliency. I have had experience working with individuals with anxiety (panic attacks, GAD, OCD) as well as numerous other mental health needs. I have a strong passion for providing ongoing and equitable support to my clients. I treat a large variety of mental health difficulties that you may be facing in a collaborative and non-judgemental way. By working with me, you will set goals and learn how to achieve them tailored to your needs and develop strong self-esteem.
(647) 957-8726 View (647) 957-8726
Photo of Denisa Zitnansky Caceres, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Denisa Zitnansky Caceres
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North York, ON M6M  (Online Only)
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with courageous individuals who are tired of feeling powerless over their worry, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD and stress.
Do you spend a lot of time worrying, overthinking or dealing with overwhelming thoughts? Feeling powerless over your worry or anxiety is exhausting and can also impact your life in a negative way. You might be avoiding situations that make you worry or feel anxious, have a hard time sleeping, feel not good enough or do things in a certain way to keep the anxiety manageable in the moment. Worry does not have to run your life.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with courageous individuals who are tired of feeling powerless over their worry, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD and stress.
Do you spend a lot of time worrying, overthinking or dealing with overwhelming thoughts? Feeling powerless over your worry or anxiety is exhausting and can also impact your life in a negative way. You might be avoiding situations that make you worry or feel anxious, have a hard time sleeping, feel not good enough or do things in a certain way to keep the anxiety manageable in the moment. Worry does not have to run your life.
(647) 696-7152 View (647) 696-7152
Photo of Eunice Chau, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Eunice Chau
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M5M  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting clients with trauma and PTSD, grief, anger management, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, domestic violence, stress management, abuse, relationship issues and life transitions.
Do you feel pressured to be perfect and live up to others high expectations? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, or powerless? Do you consistently experience intrusive thoughts and engage in repetitive behaviours that affect your daily life? Are you trying to make sense of your feelings after a difficult transition, traumatic event, or painful loss, and seeking healthier ways of coping? I am here to support you.
I specialize in supporting clients with trauma and PTSD, grief, anger management, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, domestic violence, stress management, abuse, relationship issues and life transitions.
Do you feel pressured to be perfect and live up to others high expectations? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, or powerless? Do you consistently experience intrusive thoughts and engage in repetitive behaviours that affect your daily life? Are you trying to make sense of your feelings after a difficult transition, traumatic event, or painful loss, and seeking healthier ways of coping? I am here to support you.
(289) 723-1949 View (289) 723-1949
Photo of Glenda Carman-Gray, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Glenda Carman-Gray
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2N
The evidence based treatment modality for OCD is Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
As a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist, through in-person or video counselling, I provide goal-oriented therapy (ERP, ACT, ICBT, MBCT) specializing in the areas of OCD & Anxiety (see IOCDF listing https://iocdf.org/providers/carman-gray-glenda/). My entire practice is devoted to the treatment of adults (18+) suffering with OCD, Anxiety, BFRBs & other related disorders. In therapy we work to better manage anxiety & feared and intrusive thoughts, strengthen coping skills, build self-esteem, reduce negative self talk, learn how to be self-compassionate, and address obsessive thoughts & compulsions/rituals.
The evidence based treatment modality for OCD is Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
As a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist, through in-person or video counselling, I provide goal-oriented therapy (ERP, ACT, ICBT, MBCT) specializing in the areas of OCD & Anxiety (see IOCDF listing https://iocdf.org/providers/carman-gray-glenda/). My entire practice is devoted to the treatment of adults (18+) suffering with OCD, Anxiety, BFRBs & other related disorders. In therapy we work to better manage anxiety & feared and intrusive thoughts, strengthen coping skills, build self-esteem, reduce negative self talk, learn how to be self-compassionate, and address obsessive thoughts & compulsions/rituals.
(647) 492-4610 View (647) 492-4610
Photo of Jennifer Bonilla, BA, CYW, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Bonilla
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, CYW, MDiv
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North York, ON M2P  (Online Only)
Do you often find yourself trapped in the relentless grip of anxiety? Does social anxiety make even simple interactions feel like daunting hurdles? Are you familiar with the never-ending cycle of obsessions and compulsions brought on by OCD? Have irrational fears cast long shadows, consuming your thoughts when confronted with phobias? Do these moments leave you feeling overwhelmed and isolated? The weight of anxiety can be immense, but you don't have to bear it alone. I recognize the unique struggles anxiety presents and am here to journey alongside you, offering unwavering support.
Do you often find yourself trapped in the relentless grip of anxiety? Does social anxiety make even simple interactions feel like daunting hurdles? Are you familiar with the never-ending cycle of obsessions and compulsions brought on by OCD? Have irrational fears cast long shadows, consuming your thoughts when confronted with phobias? Do these moments leave you feeling overwhelmed and isolated? The weight of anxiety can be immense, but you don't have to bear it alone. I recognize the unique struggles anxiety presents and am here to journey alongside you, offering unwavering support.
(437) 747-8486 View (437) 747-8486
Photo of Jenny Rogojanski, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Jenny Rogojanski
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
North York, ON M4P
Waitlist for new clients
I provides assessment and treatment to adults with difficulties related to their mood, anxiety, OCD and spectrum disorders (such as hair pulling and skin picking), insomnia, and difficulties with emotion regulation.
My therapeutic orientation is primarily cognitive behavioural. My approach to therapy is collaborative and supportive, with a focus on creating a safe environment for therapeutic change and combining client strengths with evidence-based treatment principles. Specifically, I specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and mindfulness and acceptance-based treatment approaches (MBCT, ACT).
I provides assessment and treatment to adults with difficulties related to their mood, anxiety, OCD and spectrum disorders (such as hair pulling and skin picking), insomnia, and difficulties with emotion regulation.
My therapeutic orientation is primarily cognitive behavioural. My approach to therapy is collaborative and supportive, with a focus on creating a safe environment for therapeutic change and combining client strengths with evidence-based treatment principles. Specifically, I specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and mindfulness and acceptance-based treatment approaches (MBCT, ACT).
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Photo of Danika Syrja-McNally, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Danika Syrja-McNally
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
North York, ON M1L  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, health anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, infertility/fertility issues, mom guilt, life transitions, relationship issues, work stress and/or burnout? Or maybe you just don’t feel like your normal self and don’t know why? If yes, let's talk! You might feel like you "should" just be okay or "should" be happy with your life but if the reality is you're not, it’s okay to talk to someone for help.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, health anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, infertility/fertility issues, mom guilt, life transitions, relationship issues, work stress and/or burnout? Or maybe you just don’t feel like your normal self and don’t know why? If yes, let's talk! You might feel like you "should" just be okay or "should" be happy with your life but if the reality is you're not, it’s okay to talk to someone for help.
(289) 272-9405 View (289) 272-9405
Photo of Kadeem Daley, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kadeem Daley
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M3B
For more than 15 years I have been supporting individuals who struggle with Mental Health in the GTA's top Hospitals. I am a Registered Social Worker who continues to work in the Children and Adolescent Outpatient Mental Health Program at North York General Hospital. I work with Children, Teens, & Adults who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and behavioural issues. I have over a decade of experience working with children, adults and families with mental health in the Emergency Departments of North York General Hospital, Sunny Brook Hospital, & Scarborough Grace Hospital.
For more than 15 years I have been supporting individuals who struggle with Mental Health in the GTA's top Hospitals. I am a Registered Social Worker who continues to work in the Children and Adolescent Outpatient Mental Health Program at North York General Hospital. I work with Children, Teens, & Adults who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and behavioural issues. I have over a decade of experience working with children, adults and families with mental health in the Emergency Departments of North York General Hospital, Sunny Brook Hospital, & Scarborough Grace Hospital.
(437) 747-6193 View (437) 747-6193
Photo of Sahar Mozafari, HBsc,  MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sahar Mozafari
Registered Psychotherapist, HBsc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
North York, ON M3B
My areas of expertise are working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, Obsessive-compulsive spectrum, phobia, and trauma-related disorders.
As a psychotherapist, I provide comprehensive interventions rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I specialize in helping individuals transform negative thought patterns, develop practical coping strategies, and make positive behavioral changes. By incorporating elements of DBT, which emphasizes emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, as well as MBCT, which promotes mindfulness and self-compassion, I offer a holistic approach to addressing various mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorder
My areas of expertise are working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, Obsessive-compulsive spectrum, phobia, and trauma-related disorders.
As a psychotherapist, I provide comprehensive interventions rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I specialize in helping individuals transform negative thought patterns, develop practical coping strategies, and make positive behavioral changes. By incorporating elements of DBT, which emphasizes emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, as well as MBCT, which promotes mindfulness and self-compassion, I offer a holistic approach to addressing various mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorder
(289) 807-4839 View (289) 807-4839
Photo of Sabrina Lombardi, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Sabrina Lombardi
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
North York, ON M3J
Dr. Sabrina Lombardi provides neuropsychological and psychological assessment, therapy and cognitive rehabilitation for individuals with concussion, traumatic brain injury, acquired brain injury, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, as well as other conditions such as OCD, chronic pain and insomnia. Her approach to concussion management seeks to identify and treat barriers to recovery. She is registered with WSIB Community Mental Health Program and HCAI (auto-insurance). She has extensive experience assisting individuals with return to work or school following concussion or acquired brain injury.
Dr. Sabrina Lombardi provides neuropsychological and psychological assessment, therapy and cognitive rehabilitation for individuals with concussion, traumatic brain injury, acquired brain injury, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, as well as other conditions such as OCD, chronic pain and insomnia. Her approach to concussion management seeks to identify and treat barriers to recovery. She is registered with WSIB Community Mental Health Program and HCAI (auto-insurance). She has extensive experience assisting individuals with return to work or school following concussion or acquired brain injury.
(647) 559-4330 View (647) 559-4330
Photo of Eva Svoboda, MA, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Eva Svoboda
Psychologist, MA, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North York, ON M3J
Dr. Eva Svoboda is a co-founding psychologist at Toronto Brain Health. She has significant experience treating individuals with persistent symptoms following concussion (e.g., headaches, sleep problems, low stress tolerance, anxiety, irritability, low mood, noise/light sensitivity), providing rehabilitation to those with acquired brain injury (e.g., stroke, brain tumor, epilepsy), and therapy for personal development, anxiety, stress, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, OCD & trauma. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered. Her treatment is informed by research in neuroscience, rehabilitation & psychological therapy.
Dr. Eva Svoboda is a co-founding psychologist at Toronto Brain Health. She has significant experience treating individuals with persistent symptoms following concussion (e.g., headaches, sleep problems, low stress tolerance, anxiety, irritability, low mood, noise/light sensitivity), providing rehabilitation to those with acquired brain injury (e.g., stroke, brain tumor, epilepsy), and therapy for personal development, anxiety, stress, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, OCD & trauma. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered. Her treatment is informed by research in neuroscience, rehabilitation & psychological therapy.
(289) 210-5996 View (289) 210-5996
Photo of Joanna Zhao, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Joanna Zhao
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2N
I have been working there since 2007, and have effectively treated many patients with various mental illnesses such as: MDD, OCD, PTSD, bi-polar, schizophrenia, early psychosis etc.
I take a client-centered approach that respect people as the authority on their own experiences and recognize the key role that emotions play in our lives. My counseling work is informed by various therapeutic modalities as well as by my extensive clinical experiences, but always with a focus on the uniqueness of each individual. Over the years, I have effectively helped many people adjust for better lives - helping them learn the strategies and tools necessary to resolve their difficulties and build on their strengths.
I have been working there since 2007, and have effectively treated many patients with various mental illnesses such as: MDD, OCD, PTSD, bi-polar, schizophrenia, early psychosis etc.
I take a client-centered approach that respect people as the authority on their own experiences and recognize the key role that emotions play in our lives. My counseling work is informed by various therapeutic modalities as well as by my extensive clinical experiences, but always with a focus on the uniqueness of each individual. Over the years, I have effectively helped many people adjust for better lives - helping them learn the strategies and tools necessary to resolve their difficulties and build on their strengths.
(647) 503-4686 View (647) 503-4686
Photo of Dr. Mursal Srosh, PhD, CPsych, (Sup, Prac), Psychologist
Dr. Mursal Srosh
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, (Sup, Prac)
Verified Verified
North York, ON M3L
I am a psychologist under supervised practice, and have over ten years of experience. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Most of my therapy work has been helping those suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, OCD, and attentional difficulties. I also help those dealing with relationship difficulties, suffering from loss, and anger. Additionally, I specialize with those that have suffered from motor vehicle accidents and rehabilitation psychology.
I am a psychologist under supervised practice, and have over ten years of experience. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Most of my therapy work has been helping those suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, OCD, and attentional difficulties. I also help those dealing with relationship difficulties, suffering from loss, and anger. Additionally, I specialize with those that have suffered from motor vehicle accidents and rehabilitation psychology.
(289) 802-6334 View (289) 802-6334
Photo of Karen Ursula Bryan - Karen U. Bryan Counselling, MDiv, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Karen U. Bryan Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, BA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M3L
This ranges from feelings of overwhelm, worry and pressure to Panic Attacks and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
Are you stuck and cant seem to find your way out of one or many issues? I never underestimate the resilience of a person but often one needs help to make sense of what is happening and triggering this state that they find themselves in. I wish to facilitate this process offering supporting strategies, insights, gentle challenges, and empowerment that assist you in breaking free. I believe in cultivating a non-judgmental atmosphere enabling the freedom for you to share and be heard and affirmed so as to assist the journey to recovery.
This ranges from feelings of overwhelm, worry and pressure to Panic Attacks and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
Are you stuck and cant seem to find your way out of one or many issues? I never underestimate the resilience of a person but often one needs help to make sense of what is happening and triggering this state that they find themselves in. I wish to facilitate this process offering supporting strategies, insights, gentle challenges, and empowerment that assist you in breaking free. I believe in cultivating a non-judgmental atmosphere enabling the freedom for you to share and be heard and affirmed so as to assist the journey to recovery.
(647) 625-3794 View (647) 625-3794
Photo of Homaira Ghazvini Nejad- Rp (Qualifying), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Homaira Ghazvini Nejad- Rp (Qualifying)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M2J
Happiness is a direction, not a place. I am experienced in providing counselling services for individuals, families and couples with anxiety, OCD, anger, depression, bereavement (grief) and PTSD issues. I can help the clients to learn or improve their communication skills, and marital conflict solution strategies. Pre-marriage and marriage, infidelity, and divorce counselling services are provided. Play therapy will be provided for children with behavioural problems.
Happiness is a direction, not a place. I am experienced in providing counselling services for individuals, families and couples with anxiety, OCD, anger, depression, bereavement (grief) and PTSD issues. I can help the clients to learn or improve their communication skills, and marital conflict solution strategies. Pre-marriage and marriage, infidelity, and divorce counselling services are provided. Play therapy will be provided for children with behavioural problems.
(647) 691-5168 View (647) 691-5168
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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.