Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists in Medina, WA

Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medina, WA 98039  (Online Only)
As an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of anxiety (social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety, panic disorder) and mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), and trauma (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), I bring years of experience working with patients from around the world.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
As an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of anxiety (social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety, panic disorder) and mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), and trauma (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), I bring years of experience working with patients from around the world.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(347) 252-9942 View (347) 252-9942
Photo of Zachary Feldman, MD, Psychiatrist
Zachary Feldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and bio-physiologic influence. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, dyadic relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based psychiatric private practice. I concurrently maintain a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Washington, am a clinical associate at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, and work as an attending psychiatrist at Overlake Medical Center.
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and bio-physiologic influence. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, dyadic relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based psychiatric private practice. I concurrently maintain a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Washington, am a clinical associate at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, and work as an attending psychiatrist at Overlake Medical Center.
(425) 276-1590 View (425) 276-1590
Photo of Dr. Kory Simonsen @ Prisma Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kory Simonsen @ Prisma Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medina, WA 98039
If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where one stands on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations. Mental health extends far beyond a mere collection of symptoms or diagnoses; it’s a dynamic process that involves the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that all contribute to your lived experience.
If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where one stands on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations. Mental health extends far beyond a mere collection of symptoms or diagnoses; it’s a dynamic process that involves the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that all contribute to your lived experience.
(425) 357-7127 View (425) 357-7127
Photo of Dr. Abisola Onashile, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Abisola Onashile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
Imagine you're seeking effective treatment for issues impacting your well-being. You want support that goes beyond quick fixes—something that addresses your specific needs and goals. Whether it's managing stress, improving mood, or overcoming challenges, you're looking for a partner who can provide targeted care to help you achieve lasting results. My approach focuses on understanding your unique situation and delivering personalized treatment that empowers you to live a resilient and fulfilling life. Together, we'll navigate towards your desired outcomes, ensuring a supportive and transformative journey.
Imagine you're seeking effective treatment for issues impacting your well-being. You want support that goes beyond quick fixes—something that addresses your specific needs and goals. Whether it's managing stress, improving mood, or overcoming challenges, you're looking for a partner who can provide targeted care to help you achieve lasting results. My approach focuses on understanding your unique situation and delivering personalized treatment that empowers you to live a resilient and fulfilling life. Together, we'll navigate towards your desired outcomes, ensuring a supportive and transformative journey.
(360) 531-6483 View (360) 531-6483
Photo of Sule Karakus, MD, Psychiatrist
Sule Karakus
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
I obtained my medical degree from University of Istanbul Medical School. I completed my Psychiatry Specialization at Case Western Reserve University. I was the chief resident of the inpatient units at Harvard Medical School. I have held positions at Western State Hospital, Good Samaritan Behavioral Health and Navos Mental Health. I was a pediatric neurosurgeon previously and have vast experience working abroad in the international medical communities of Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Australia. I am fluent in English, German, French and Turkish. Services Offered: My focus will be on medication management.
I obtained my medical degree from University of Istanbul Medical School. I completed my Psychiatry Specialization at Case Western Reserve University. I was the chief resident of the inpatient units at Harvard Medical School. I have held positions at Western State Hospital, Good Samaritan Behavioral Health and Navos Mental Health. I was a pediatric neurosurgeon previously and have vast experience working abroad in the international medical communities of Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Australia. I am fluent in English, German, French and Turkish. Services Offered: My focus will be on medication management.
(425) 243-1078 View (425) 243-1078
Photo of Massoud Stephane, MD, Psychiatrist
Massoud Stephane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
(425) 510-0200 View (425) 510-0200
Photo of Dr. Alison DeMiero, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Alison DeMiero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039  (Online Only)
Embark on a transformative journey to mental wellness with Dr. Alison DeMiero, a visionary psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in holistic and functional medicine. Dr. DeMiero deeply understands the intricate web connecting mind, body, and spirit. Her bespoke programs unlock the door to personalized care that addresses the unique tapestry of your life and health. By delving deep into the root causes of mental health challenges, she unveils the hidden connections with your gut health and hormonal balance. At the heart of her practice lies the synergy between cutting-edge functional medicine and compassionate care.
Embark on a transformative journey to mental wellness with Dr. Alison DeMiero, a visionary psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in holistic and functional medicine. Dr. DeMiero deeply understands the intricate web connecting mind, body, and spirit. Her bespoke programs unlock the door to personalized care that addresses the unique tapestry of your life and health. By delving deep into the root causes of mental health challenges, she unveils the hidden connections with your gut health and hormonal balance. At the heart of her practice lies the synergy between cutting-edge functional medicine and compassionate care.
(253) 259-2853 View (253) 259-2853
Photo of Lilia Peng, ND, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilia Peng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039  (Online Only)
As a doctorally trained board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for mental health. My approach is holistic and integrative, including tools such as laboratory assessment, lifestyle counseling, supportive therapy, natural treatments, and medications. I personalize treatments to the individual and work collaboratively with clients to address goals for care. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.
As a doctorally trained board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for mental health. My approach is holistic and integrative, including tools such as laboratory assessment, lifestyle counseling, supportive therapy, natural treatments, and medications. I personalize treatments to the individual and work collaboratively with clients to address goals for care. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.
(425) 470-6421 View (425) 470-6421
Photo of Scott Wiener - Scott L. Wiener M.D. @Prisma Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist
Scott L. Wiener M.D. @Prisma Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medina, WA 98039
Psychiatrists are the only doctors who don't look inside the body to assess a problem. Think about it; all other doctors use imaging and labs to look inside a person’s body when making a diagnosis. That coupled with your symptoms is how they determine what the problem is. Unfortunately, mental health providers have learned that how a person feels is their only tool in assessing somebody. Because of this, psychiatrists often have no idea what’s causing the problem. This limits the treatment options to a prescribed “band-aid" that is used to reduce symptoms, instead of addressing the underlying cause of a problem.
Psychiatrists are the only doctors who don't look inside the body to assess a problem. Think about it; all other doctors use imaging and labs to look inside a person’s body when making a diagnosis. That coupled with your symptoms is how they determine what the problem is. Unfortunately, mental health providers have learned that how a person feels is their only tool in assessing somebody. Because of this, psychiatrists often have no idea what’s causing the problem. This limits the treatment options to a prescribed “band-aid" that is used to reduce symptoms, instead of addressing the underlying cause of a problem.
(206) 208-2920 View (206) 208-2920

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Zach Nelson - Active Path Mental Health, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Active Path Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
(425) 655-1869 View (425) 655-1869
Photo of Cate Gerrity, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cate Gerrity
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
My focus areas include anxiety, OCD, and ADHD medication management however I do treat a much broader spectrum of psychiatric conditions.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for patient-centered care. I'm an active and compassionate listener. I hold a holistic view of mental healthcare, and am thorough in working with my patients to determine best next steps for them. My style is very collaborative. This means we will discuss multiple treatment options, pros and cons of each, and together make a decision how to move forward. Patient education is critical and I work to help patients understand both their mental health conditions and the role of medication.
My focus areas include anxiety, OCD, and ADHD medication management however I do treat a much broader spectrum of psychiatric conditions.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for patient-centered care. I'm an active and compassionate listener. I hold a holistic view of mental healthcare, and am thorough in working with my patients to determine best next steps for them. My style is very collaborative. This means we will discuss multiple treatment options, pros and cons of each, and together make a decision how to move forward. Patient education is critical and I work to help patients understand both their mental health conditions and the role of medication.
(206) 339-7660 View (206) 339-7660
Photo of Joshua Bess, MD, Psychiatrist
Joshua Bess
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Bess provides comprehensive evaluation and care for "treatment-resistant" psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder using a range of brain stimulation treatments including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS).
Dr. Bess graduated from Swarthmore College and University of Michigan Medical School, completed residency at UM, including a year as a chief resident, then joined the psychiatry faculty at UM, working on the Inpatient, Consultation-Liaison and ECT teams. Interests include brain stimulation, pharmacology for treatment-resistant mood disorders and psychiatric illness complicated by medical problems.
Bess provides comprehensive evaluation and care for "treatment-resistant" psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder using a range of brain stimulation treatments including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS).
Dr. Bess graduated from Swarthmore College and University of Michigan Medical School, completed residency at UM, including a year as a chief resident, then joined the psychiatry faculty at UM, working on the Inpatient, Consultation-Liaison and ECT teams. Interests include brain stimulation, pharmacology for treatment-resistant mood disorders and psychiatric illness complicated by medical problems.
(206) 966-6968 View (206) 966-6968
Photo of Zach Nelson - Active Path Mental Health, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Active Path Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
(425) 414-3264 View (425) 414-3264
Photo of Molly Davis - Clear Path Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Clear Path Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Over the past 8 years, my focus has been on using deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) to treatment-resistant depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I am board certified in both general and geriatric psychiatry. I received my B.S. in Human Biology from Stanford University. I graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine in 2001 and completed a general psychiatry residency and geriatric psychiatry fellowship at Oregon Health & Science University. Following my training, I joined the faculty at OHSU as a geriatric psychiatrist, specializing in treating patients with refractory mood disorders with electroconvulsive therapy.
Over the past 8 years, my focus has been on using deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) to treatment-resistant depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I am board certified in both general and geriatric psychiatry. I received my B.S. in Human Biology from Stanford University. I graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine in 2001 and completed a general psychiatry residency and geriatric psychiatry fellowship at Oregon Health & Science University. Following my training, I joined the faculty at OHSU as a geriatric psychiatrist, specializing in treating patients with refractory mood disorders with electroconvulsive therapy.
(206) 672-4893 View (206) 672-4893
Neupathway LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Accepting new clients same week availability................................... Neupathway is deeply passionate about delivering exceptional mental health care that makes a significant positive impact on her patients' well-being. Her unwavering commitment to the field is reflected in her dedication to addressing the complexities of mental health, with a particular emphasis on anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.In an ever-evolving field, Eirin stays current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure that her patients receive the highest standard of care.
Accepting new clients same week availability................................... Neupathway is deeply passionate about delivering exceptional mental health care that makes a significant positive impact on her patients' well-being. Her unwavering commitment to the field is reflected in her dedication to addressing the complexities of mental health, with a particular emphasis on anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.In an ever-evolving field, Eirin stays current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure that her patients receive the highest standard of care.
(425) 584-6202 View (425) 584-6202
Photo of Nina Chandler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nina Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Nina Chandler provides comprehensive psychiatric care for all ages, focusing on wellness and collaboration, and has expertise in women’s mental health, especially postpartum mood disorders, adolescent mental health, depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, and management of severe and persistent mental health conditions.
Nina Chandler provides comprehensive psychiatric care for all ages, focusing on wellness and collaboration, and has expertise in women’s mental health, especially postpartum mood disorders, adolescent mental health, depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, and management of severe and persistent mental health conditions.
(425) 584-5462 View (425) 584-5462
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Specializing in anxiety, depression, and OCD, I utilize evidence-based approaches to empower clients to navigate life's challenges.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Specializing in anxiety, depression, and OCD, I utilize evidence-based approaches to empower clients to navigate life's challenges.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(206) 672-7730 View (206) 672-7730
Photo of Dao Nguyen, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dao Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Dao and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Dao and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(206) 258-6233 View (206) 258-6233
Photo of Megan Sapp, PMHNP, CNM, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Sapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, FNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I have experience treating people of all genders for most mental health concerns, especially depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, and sleep disorders.
2024 - Current openings! To get started, complete a new patient form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a psychiatric NP, I specialize in supporting people through life transitions. With a background as a Nurse Midwife, I have special interest in serving clients who are pregnant, postpartum, experiencing perinatal loss or fertility challenges, those affected by hormonal changes and/or chronic health conditions. I bring a comprehensive understanding of reproductive and physical health to assist clients in weighing options for care and building a treatment plan that is consistent with their goals and values.
I have experience treating people of all genders for most mental health concerns, especially depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, and sleep disorders.
2024 - Current openings! To get started, complete a new patient form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a psychiatric NP, I specialize in supporting people through life transitions. With a background as a Nurse Midwife, I have special interest in serving clients who are pregnant, postpartum, experiencing perinatal loss or fertility challenges, those affected by hormonal changes and/or chronic health conditions. I bring a comprehensive understanding of reproductive and physical health to assist clients in weighing options for care and building a treatment plan that is consistent with their goals and values.
(206) 752-4642 View (206) 752-4642
Photo of Krista Meeks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krista Meeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I will work with you to diagnose and explore solutions and medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, disordered eating, OCD, ADHD, ASD, dissociative disorders, substance use disorders, and other mental health challenges. I believe that there is depth and dimension in someone’s unique story, and I aim to consider a broader picture, and a fuller understanding of a person and their struggles as we collaborate to create an individual treatment plan.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I will work with you to diagnose and explore solutions and medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, disordered eating, OCD, ADHD, ASD, dissociative disorders, substance use disorders, and other mental health challenges. I believe that there is depth and dimension in someone’s unique story, and I aim to consider a broader picture, and a fuller understanding of a person and their struggles as we collaborate to create an individual treatment plan.
(425) 441-3282 View (425) 441-3282

See more therapy options for Medina

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.