Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA

Misha Sivia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I am a compassionate psychiatrist with extensive experience working in both nonprofits and group practice settings. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders with medication management as well as psychotherapy. I treat Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, Trauma, Eating disorders, and Insomnia routinely in my practice. My approach involves making an individualized treatment plan framed by evidence-based medicine in collaboration with you as a patient. Taking a collaborative approach, I consult with therapists, primary care physicians, and others if clinically indicated for assessment and treatment.
I am a compassionate psychiatrist with extensive experience working in both nonprofits and group practice settings. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders with medication management as well as psychotherapy. I treat Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, Trauma, Eating disorders, and Insomnia routinely in my practice. My approach involves making an individualized treatment plan framed by evidence-based medicine in collaboration with you as a patient. Taking a collaborative approach, I consult with therapists, primary care physicians, and others if clinically indicated for assessment and treatment.
(628) 345-8013 View (628) 345-8013
Photo of Ryan Vidrine - Ryan Vidrine, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Ryan Vidrine, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I offer Specialized Psychiatric Services for OCD & Anxiety Disorders.
I offer Specialized Psychiatric Services for OCD & Anxiety Disorders.
(415) 548-9221 View (415) 548-9221
Photo of Manisha Ram Punwani, MD, Psychiatrist
Manisha Ram Punwani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of children, adolescents and their families. I specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of children, adolescents and their families. I specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
(415) 599-4349 View (415) 599-4349
Photo of Manisha Punwani, MD, Psychiatrist
Manisha Punwani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Adult and Child Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of all my patients and specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Adult and Child Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of all my patients and specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
(646) 693-3583 View (646) 693-3583
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, PA-C , Physician Assistant
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (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 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. 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 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(650) 547-7919 View (650) 547-7919
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105
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.
(415) 301-4583 View (415) 301-4583
Photo of Dr. Anoopinder Singh, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anoopinder Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Dr. Anoopinder Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Singh uses a holistic approach to treat college and university students and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, co-morbid disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and trauma. He has worked in disaster psychiatry outreach, the Medical Reserve Corps, and foreign and local governments, providing psychological first-aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India.
Dr. Anoopinder Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Singh uses a holistic approach to treat college and university students and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, co-morbid disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and trauma. He has worked in disaster psychiatry outreach, the Medical Reserve Corps, and foreign and local governments, providing psychological first-aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Robert Loman, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Robert Loman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
How you feel matters. The approach used by Dr. Loman utilizes the biological, psychological, and social influences in treatment approach. Dr. Loman has over 10 years of experience in treating various mental health conditions. Conditions treated include: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Personality Disorders, Somatic disorders, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders.
How you feel matters. The approach used by Dr. Loman utilizes the biological, psychological, and social influences in treatment approach. Dr. Loman has over 10 years of experience in treating various mental health conditions. Conditions treated include: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Personality Disorders, Somatic disorders, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders.
(707) 306-8596 View (707) 306-8596
Photo of Neha Nayyar, MD, Psychiatrist
Neha Nayyar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
My specific areas of focus within my practice are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as co-occurring substance use.
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
My specific areas of focus within my practice are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as co-occurring substance use.
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
(628) 313-5919 View (628) 313-5919
Photo of Eilly Yang, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eilly Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more.
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more.
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
(415) 993-6324 View (415) 993-6324
Photo of Suragbhai Gohel, MD, Psychiatrist
Suragbhai Gohel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
As a psychiatrist, I am always fascinated by the courage of my patients who seek mental health treatment against the odds of personal and cultural challenges. It inspires me to help my patients achieve the best mental healthcare which we all deserve. As our mental health is impacted by a multitude of factors including biological, psychological, and social, I personalize the treatment plan for each of my patients, so they can have a better outcome to live a quality life. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
As a psychiatrist, I am always fascinated by the courage of my patients who seek mental health treatment against the odds of personal and cultural challenges. It inspires me to help my patients achieve the best mental healthcare which we all deserve. As our mental health is impacted by a multitude of factors including biological, psychological, and social, I personalize the treatment plan for each of my patients, so they can have a better outcome to live a quality life. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
(628) 218-7741 View (628) 218-7741
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
San Francisco, CA 94122
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 Eric Frost - Brightside Health, Psychiatrist
Brightside Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131  (Online Only)
We specialize in depression, anxiety, and a wide range of related conditions including: bipolar disorder, panic disorder and attacks, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), postpartum depression, social anxiety, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), insomnia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and more.
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
We specialize in depression, anxiety, and a wide range of related conditions including: bipolar disorder, panic disorder and attacks, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), postpartum depression, social anxiety, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), insomnia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and more.
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
(415) 851-9447 View (415) 851-9447
Photo of Andrei Kreutzberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrei Kreutzberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
My practice focuses on patients suffering with depression, anxiety, mood issues, insomnia, ADHD, stress, and OCD.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric evaluation, medication management and video appointments. Psychiatric medications can help control symptoms such as anxiety, depression, inattention, and insomnia, which may be impairing your ability to live a full and productive life. My approach is pragmatic and evidence based; medications, evidence based supplements, and lifestyle modifications may enhance your ability to move through life feeling effective and feeling good.
My practice focuses on patients suffering with depression, anxiety, mood issues, insomnia, ADHD, stress, and OCD.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric evaluation, medication management and video appointments. Psychiatric medications can help control symptoms such as anxiety, depression, inattention, and insomnia, which may be impairing your ability to live a full and productive life. My approach is pragmatic and evidence based; medications, evidence based supplements, and lifestyle modifications may enhance your ability to move through life feeling effective and feeling good.
(415) 723-4199 View (415) 723-4199
Photo of Carla Hammond - Brainpower Wellness Institute, Psychiatrist
Brainpower Wellness Institute
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94134
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
(510) 399-1949 View (510) 399-1949
Photo of James Reich, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
James Reich
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
In my practice I have experience with a full range of anxiety disorders (including Panic, Social Anxiety disorder, OCD and PTSD) and depressive disorders (including adjustment disorders, major depression, bipolar disorders and grief); attention disorders (ADHD); and helping professionals with occupational stress.
Everyone from time to time needs a helping hand. I am experienced with professor appointments at UCSF and Stanford. I treat outpatients in person and by telepsychiatry with medication management and psychotherapy (CBT and Mindfulness). My patients tend to be talented professionals (doctors, lawyers, tech) who have done well but have hit a bump with emotional symptoms, stress, or life difficulties. I believe each patient has unique needs that must be individually assessed and addressed. When indicated I use medication. I am a good choice for someone seeking a therapist and psychiatrist in one person.
In my practice I have experience with a full range of anxiety disorders (including Panic, Social Anxiety disorder, OCD and PTSD) and depressive disorders (including adjustment disorders, major depression, bipolar disorders and grief); attention disorders (ADHD); and helping professionals with occupational stress.
Everyone from time to time needs a helping hand. I am experienced with professor appointments at UCSF and Stanford. I treat outpatients in person and by telepsychiatry with medication management and psychotherapy (CBT and Mindfulness). My patients tend to be talented professionals (doctors, lawyers, tech) who have done well but have hit a bump with emotional symptoms, stress, or life difficulties. I believe each patient has unique needs that must be individually assessed and addressed. When indicated I use medication. I am a good choice for someone seeking a therapist and psychiatrist in one person.
(415) 594-4412 View (415) 594-4412
Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry San Francisco, MD, Psychiatrist
Remedy Psychiatry San Francisco
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms – anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, insomnia and more.
Are you struggling in your day to day? With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatric appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. Our services include an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or your comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms – anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, insomnia and more.
Are you struggling in your day to day? With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatric appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. Our services include an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or your comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
(310) 943-1267 View (310) 943-1267
Photo of Dr. Reem Libdeh, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Reem Libdeh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Francisco, with clinical expertise in eating disorders, addiction medicine, and women’s mental health. I’m passionate about helping patients get to the underlying causes of their distress, using a trauma-informed approach that includes psychotherapy techniques, lifestyle changes, and, when indicated, medications. I also treat mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma disorders, and other psychiatric ailments. I have extensive experience working with high-functioning professionals struggling with their mental health and/or substance use.
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Francisco, with clinical expertise in eating disorders, addiction medicine, and women’s mental health. I’m passionate about helping patients get to the underlying causes of their distress, using a trauma-informed approach that includes psychotherapy techniques, lifestyle changes, and, when indicated, medications. I also treat mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma disorders, and other psychiatric ailments. I have extensive experience working with high-functioning professionals struggling with their mental health and/or substance use.
(415) 876-5583 View (415) 876-5583
Photo of David Hirchak, DO, Psychiatrist
David Hirchak
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Dr. Hirchak is an experienced, Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, who emphasizes psychopharmacology and neurobiology in his treatment. Dr. Hirchak specializes in treating Anxiety, OCD, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. Dr. Hirchak collaborates closely with our therapists so he can provide treatment with both medication management and psychotherapy when indicated.
Dr. Hirchak is an experienced, Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, who emphasizes psychopharmacology and neurobiology in his treatment. Dr. Hirchak specializes in treating Anxiety, OCD, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. Dr. Hirchak collaborates closely with our therapists so he can provide treatment with both medication management and psychotherapy when indicated.
(628) 333-3149 View (628) 333-3149
Photo of Haining Yu, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Haining Yu
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Not accepting new clients
I am a Harvard and UCSF trained child, adolescent perinatal and adult psychiatrist who sees patients across the diagnostic spectrum. I have expertise in conditions which are more common in youth such as ADHD, Autism, OCD. I also have specialized training in women's mental health and maternal mental health, including issues with infertility, pregnancy and postpartum. I am very interested in how cultural identity shapes mental and emotional wellbeing, with a lens on how intergenerational trauma affects individuals and families.
I am a Harvard and UCSF trained child, adolescent perinatal and adult psychiatrist who sees patients across the diagnostic spectrum. I have expertise in conditions which are more common in youth such as ADHD, Autism, OCD. I also have specialized training in women's mental health and maternal mental health, including issues with infertility, pregnancy and postpartum. I am very interested in how cultural identity shapes mental and emotional wellbeing, with a lens on how intergenerational trauma affects individuals and families.
(628) 262-2204 View (628) 262-2204
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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.