Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists in La Jolla, CA

Photo of Mandy Marie Brannen - Hills Neuroscience Integrative Psychology , APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hills Neuroscience Integrative Psychology
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Are you grappling with life's challenges, obsessive thinking, feeling sad, fearful, worried, or distracted? If these struggles affect your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I'm here to guide you toward a comprehensive healing journey. We'll collaborate to develop a personalized plan that draws on the power of various therapeutic approaches. I specialize in utilizing TMS to harness advanced technology to influence brain activity, promoting balance and relief from challenging symptoms and enhancing performance.
Are you grappling with life's challenges, obsessive thinking, feeling sad, fearful, worried, or distracted? If these struggles affect your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I'm here to guide you toward a comprehensive healing journey. We'll collaborate to develop a personalized plan that draws on the power of various therapeutic approaches. I specialize in utilizing TMS to harness advanced technology to influence brain activity, promoting balance and relief from challenging symptoms and enhancing performance.
(858) 943-6645 View (858) 943-6645
Photo of Gail Bernstein, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gail Bernstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92039
Facing the challenges of motherhood, ADHD, or OCD can feel deeply overwhelming and isolating. You may find yourself caught in a cycle of worry or self-doubt, wondering if things will ever feel manageable again. Maybe you're struggling with Anxiety or Depression. I truly understand how heavy this can feel, and I’m here to help you regain a sense of balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore holistic solutions, blending medication management with mindfulness practices to support your overall well-being.
Facing the challenges of motherhood, ADHD, or OCD can feel deeply overwhelming and isolating. You may find yourself caught in a cycle of worry or self-doubt, wondering if things will ever feel manageable again. Maybe you're struggling with Anxiety or Depression. I truly understand how heavy this can feel, and I’m here to help you regain a sense of balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore holistic solutions, blending medication management with mindfulness practices to support your overall well-being.
(858) 330-2431 View (858) 330-2431
Photo of Ross Palmer, MD, Psychiatrist
Ross Palmer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I also have specialized training in OCD, PTSD, and Peripartum Mental Health.
Thank you for considering to work with me as your physician. I opened my private practice clinic because I wanted to create a safe, comfortable space where my patients are always valued and respected, where your most private concerns can be expressed without judgment or stigma. In addition to a calming, friendly environment, I also offer excellent medical knowledge and clinical judgment. In psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Diego, I ranked first of 58 residents by exam scores.
I also have specialized training in OCD, PTSD, and Peripartum Mental Health.
Thank you for considering to work with me as your physician. I opened my private practice clinic because I wanted to create a safe, comfortable space where my patients are always valued and respected, where your most private concerns can be expressed without judgment or stigma. In addition to a calming, friendly environment, I also offer excellent medical knowledge and clinical judgment. In psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Diego, I ranked first of 58 residents by exam scores.
(619) 489-6914 View (619) 489-6914
Photo of Azmeena Hashem, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Azmeena Hashem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Dr. Monica Federoff, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Monica Federoff
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist practicing at the CalPsychiatry San Diego La Jolla office. I am passionate about treating patients holistically with a variety of psychiatric disorders including mood and anxiety disorders, women’s reproductive mental health, sleep disorders, OCD and ADHD. I value a personalized yet integrative approach to patient care and wellness, including both behavioral and pharmacologic based treatments. I obtained my MD from UC Irvine, PhD in Neurogenetics from University College London and completed my Psychiatry residency training at UC San Diego.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist practicing at the CalPsychiatry San Diego La Jolla office. I am passionate about treating patients holistically with a variety of psychiatric disorders including mood and anxiety disorders, women’s reproductive mental health, sleep disorders, OCD and ADHD. I value a personalized yet integrative approach to patient care and wellness, including both behavioral and pharmacologic based treatments. I obtained my MD from UC Irvine, PhD in Neurogenetics from University College London and completed my Psychiatry residency training at UC San Diego.
(858) 901-8386 View (858) 901-8386
Photo of Jennifer Knisely, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Knisely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Jennifer has worked with patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, schizoaffective, schizophrenic, and suicidal patients.
Jennifer Knisely is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both geriatric and adult populations. Jennifer obtains strong clinical skills, with an intuitive ability to build patient rapport while providing evidence-based care. Jennifer provides collaborative, holistic, and patient-centered care focusing on what matters most to you. I want you to leave your session feeling better than you did. I want you to be the best version of you!
Jennifer has worked with patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, schizoaffective, schizophrenic, and suicidal patients.
Jennifer Knisely is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both geriatric and adult populations. Jennifer obtains strong clinical skills, with an intuitive ability to build patient rapport while providing evidence-based care. Jennifer provides collaborative, holistic, and patient-centered care focusing on what matters most to you. I want you to leave your session feeling better than you did. I want you to be the best version of you!
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Dr. Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
specializes in treating cognitive issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Brain Fog, Depression, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
specializes in treating cognitive issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Brain Fog, Depression, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(619) 329-4608 View (619) 329-4608
Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92038  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(858) 465-4857 View (858) 465-4857
Photo of Dr. Adarezza Ferrer, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adarezza Ferrer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I am a board-certified psychiatrist committed to providing compassionate mental health care. I have extensive experience working with young and older adult populations, treating mood disorders and behavioral problems. Common conditions I work with include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist committed to providing compassionate mental health care. I have extensive experience working with young and older adult populations, treating mood disorders and behavioral problems. Common conditions I work with include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(760) 274-8206 View (760) 274-8206
Photo of Jordan Blaine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92038  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(619) 292-0163 View (619) 292-0163
Photo of Janet Osuagwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Osuagwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I specialize in medication management of Severe Anxiety disorder, Severe Depressive Disorder, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, Anxiety, depression, Psychosis, OCD, adjustment disorder and many more.
I believe that each individual deserves a life that is fulfilling, enriched, empowered and allow for understanding of self and feelings. You don’t want to continue living in isolation and consumed daily with thoughts of how to face tomorrow hence you making this move. If you feel seeking help and scheduling this appointment today with me for psychiatric medication management is the right move, then you are right. By taking this bold step today, you are ready to take back control of your life and pave a new path for yourself. I am here to help you achieve through.
I specialize in medication management of Severe Anxiety disorder, Severe Depressive Disorder, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, Anxiety, depression, Psychosis, OCD, adjustment disorder and many more.
I believe that each individual deserves a life that is fulfilling, enriched, empowered and allow for understanding of self and feelings. You don’t want to continue living in isolation and consumed daily with thoughts of how to face tomorrow hence you making this move. If you feel seeking help and scheduling this appointment today with me for psychiatric medication management is the right move, then you are right. By taking this bold step today, you are ready to take back control of your life and pave a new path for yourself. I am here to help you achieve through.
(562) 372-6654 View (562) 372-6654
Photo of Janet Agu, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Agu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
My areas of specialty include schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD and PTSD for patients ages 17 to 65 years old.
Do you feel as though no one understands you? Do ruminating thoughts dominate your day? Can you visualize the life your heart desires, but aren’t sure what steps to take next? I provide a safe and caring place to share your thoughts, worries, goals, and traumas. You can say anything to me that you need to begin or continue your healing process. Together, we will create a personalized care plan, utilizing proven tools and techniques. If you are ready to take the first step, I’ll be at your side as your journey unfolds.
My areas of specialty include schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD and PTSD for patients ages 17 to 65 years old.
Do you feel as though no one understands you? Do ruminating thoughts dominate your day? Can you visualize the life your heart desires, but aren’t sure what steps to take next? I provide a safe and caring place to share your thoughts, worries, goals, and traumas. You can say anything to me that you need to begin or continue your healing process. Together, we will create a personalized care plan, utilizing proven tools and techniques. If you are ready to take the first step, I’ll be at your side as your journey unfolds.
(562) 685-8899 View (562) 685-8899
Photo of Gina Ameri, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gina Ameri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I have been actively treating mental health conditions across the lifespan, seeing patients ages 8-70. I have 3 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have over 17 years of experience working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am fully licensed in both California and Nevada, treating patients in both States. I manage an array of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, ODD, and ADHD, to name a few.
I have been actively treating mental health conditions across the lifespan, seeing patients ages 8-70. I have 3 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have over 17 years of experience working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am fully licensed in both California and Nevada, treating patients in both States. I manage an array of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, ODD, and ADHD, to name a few.
(424) 799-1058 View (424) 799-1058
Photo of Evelyn Ciampa, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evelyn Ciampa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92038  (Online Only)
I treat anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD-related symptoms like dissociation, anxiety, poor memory and flashbacks, phobia, panic disorder and ADHD.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and pragmatic and supportive therapy. My practice is founded on the principle of understanding my patients. We will collaborate and develop a treatment plan that you agree you'll follow incrementally to achieve our agreed-upon goals.
I treat anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD-related symptoms like dissociation, anxiety, poor memory and flashbacks, phobia, panic disorder and ADHD.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and pragmatic and supportive therapy. My practice is founded on the principle of understanding my patients. We will collaborate and develop a treatment plan that you agree you'll follow incrementally to achieve our agreed-upon goals.
(442) 253-2154 View (442) 253-2154
Photo of Ashok Parameswaran, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashok Parameswaran
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
In general, his practice focuses on the treatment of mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders including panic and phobic disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Ashok Parameswaran is a licensed and board-certified psychiatrist. Born outside of Philadelphia PA, he moved to San Diego for residency. In San Diego, he has worked in a variety of outpatient clinical care settings serving patients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
In general, his practice focuses on the treatment of mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders including panic and phobic disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Ashok Parameswaran is a licensed and board-certified psychiatrist. Born outside of Philadelphia PA, he moved to San Diego for residency. In San Diego, he has worked in a variety of outpatient clinical care settings serving patients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
(858) 630-6582 View (858) 630-6582
Photo of Agnes Kwon Simone, DO, Psychiatrist
Agnes Kwon Simone
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I am a UCLA-trained, board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, ADHD, and insomnia. I work with adolescents, young adults and adults. I am passionate about my integrative approach to mental health care. While I provide medication management, I also highlight the importance of non-pharmacologic interventions including healthy lifestyle changes, mindfulness, and psychotherapy.
I am a UCLA-trained, board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, ADHD, and insomnia. I work with adolescents, young adults and adults. I am passionate about my integrative approach to mental health care. While I provide medication management, I also highlight the importance of non-pharmacologic interventions including healthy lifestyle changes, mindfulness, and psychotherapy.
(310) 935-0754 View (310) 935-0754
Photo of Jamie Miskell - Carative Psychiatry, MSN,  MA, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MA, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92093
I provide medication management for those seeking help for anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
Hi- I am available for telehealth appointments throughout the state of California. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I look forward to virtually meeting you. My goal is improve your quality of life by assisting you with your medication management needs. Our journey together will focus on supporting you in pursuing wholeness, resilience and relief. I am committed to lasting relationships with my clients and enjoy seeing the positive changes that can occur as we work together! ​
I provide medication management for those seeking help for anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
Hi- I am available for telehealth appointments throughout the state of California. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I look forward to virtually meeting you. My goal is improve your quality of life by assisting you with your medication management needs. Our journey together will focus on supporting you in pursuing wholeness, resilience and relief. I am committed to lasting relationships with my clients and enjoy seeing the positive changes that can occur as we work together! ​
(415) 449-1845 View (415) 449-1845
Photo of Kris Ancho, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kris Ancho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Kristoffer A. Ancho is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He is a master’s prepared nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse. He has extensive experience caring for geriatrics, adults, adolescents, and children suffering from mental illness at Sharp Mesa Vista Hospital. He also provided care for veterans at the VA San Diego’s Neuromodulation Clinic. He is experienced with repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), Esketamine (Spravato), and IV Ketamine infusion.
Kristoffer A. Ancho is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He is a master’s prepared nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse. He has extensive experience caring for geriatrics, adults, adolescents, and children suffering from mental illness at Sharp Mesa Vista Hospital. He also provided care for veterans at the VA San Diego’s Neuromodulation Clinic. He is experienced with repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), Esketamine (Spravato), and IV Ketamine infusion.
(858) 293-1562 View (858) 293-1562
Photo of Claudio Demb, MD, Psychiatrist
Claudio Demb
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Claudio Demb is a boardcertified psychiatrist with vast expertise in the field of mental health. Claudio was born in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, amidst the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and open lands. He attended medical school at the National University of La Plata, Argentina. Claudio subsequently pursued a rotating internship at the Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv University in Israel, before relocating to the United States to complete his psychiatry residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
Claudio Demb is a boardcertified psychiatrist with vast expertise in the field of mental health. Claudio was born in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, amidst the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and open lands. He attended medical school at the National University of La Plata, Argentina. Claudio subsequently pursued a rotating internship at the Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv University in Israel, before relocating to the United States to complete his psychiatry residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
(858) 358-5965 View (858) 358-5965
Photo of Dr. Jack Perlov, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jack Perlov
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Jack Perlov, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience as a University professor, psychotherapist and treating all ages and most conditions. He attended medical school at The University of Manitoba and went on to complete his psychiatric residency at the McMaster University Medical Center and University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada. Dr. Perlov completed his Child and Adolescent fellowship at the University of Toronto, where he also served as a Chief Resident at the Hospital for Sick Children.
Jack Perlov, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience as a University professor, psychotherapist and treating all ages and most conditions. He attended medical school at The University of Manitoba and went on to complete his psychiatric residency at the McMaster University Medical Center and University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada. Dr. Perlov completed his Child and Adolescent fellowship at the University of Toronto, where he also served as a Chief Resident at the Hospital for Sick Children.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
1
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists

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.