Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Irvine, CA

Photo of Janna Marie Zangger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janna Marie Zangger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606  (Online Only)
It's okay to ask for help. In fact, it's brave! We live in a busy and uncertain world with many expectations. Often times people feel like they aren't enough or that there is something wrong with them. You may feel you are not thin enough, a good enough mom, student, partner, employee, etc. But you are enough! And you are not a problem to be fixed! You are a human to be understood! Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, OCD, addiction, or how to navigate life in general, my goal is to create a space for you to feel safe enough to show up as you are and to know that it's okay to not be okay.
It's okay to ask for help. In fact, it's brave! We live in a busy and uncertain world with many expectations. Often times people feel like they aren't enough or that there is something wrong with them. You may feel you are not thin enough, a good enough mom, student, partner, employee, etc. But you are enough! And you are not a problem to be fixed! You are a human to be understood! Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, OCD, addiction, or how to navigate life in general, my goal is to create a space for you to feel safe enough to show up as you are and to know that it's okay to not be okay.
(213) 463-6692 View (213) 463-6692
Photo of Sierra Leblanc, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sierra Leblanc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I offer in person session only in Orange County, specifically Irvine, CA. I am licensed in California and Nevada. I work with individuals, couples and teens helping clients with a wide range of issues including Marital, Premarital, Anxiety, OCD, Infidelity, and Life Transitions. I offer a therapeutic modality called Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), the use of ketamine as a complement to psychotherapy. I offer KAP sessions and integration for those whom may have already had KAP sessions on their own.
I offer in person session only in Orange County, specifically Irvine, CA. I am licensed in California and Nevada. I work with individuals, couples and teens helping clients with a wide range of issues including Marital, Premarital, Anxiety, OCD, Infidelity, and Life Transitions. I offer a therapeutic modality called Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), the use of ketamine as a complement to psychotherapy. I offer KAP sessions and integration for those whom may have already had KAP sessions on their own.
(949) 284-4924 View (949) 284-4924
Photo of Robert Yeilding, PsyD, Psychologist
Robert Yeilding
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
With over 13 years of training and experience in CBT focused on helping people with anxiety - whether it manifests as social anxiety, sleep-related anxiety, panic, or OCD, my approach can help even if past talk therapy has been unproductive for you.
Can you picture a life where anxiety doesn't dictate your decisions or cloud your potential? If you find yourself yearning for a feeling of calm even in the midst of uncertainty in life, I am here to help. Let us work together to first understand YOU as an individual, and develop a plan that can offer you the skills and structure needed to make real progress. I specialize in applying Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people just like you overcome the negative impact anxiety has on your relationships, work or school life, and ability to rest and sleep soundly. Keep reading to learn how to book a free call and get help now.
With over 13 years of training and experience in CBT focused on helping people with anxiety - whether it manifests as social anxiety, sleep-related anxiety, panic, or OCD, my approach can help even if past talk therapy has been unproductive for you.
Can you picture a life where anxiety doesn't dictate your decisions or cloud your potential? If you find yourself yearning for a feeling of calm even in the midst of uncertainty in life, I am here to help. Let us work together to first understand YOU as an individual, and develop a plan that can offer you the skills and structure needed to make real progress. I specialize in applying Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people just like you overcome the negative impact anxiety has on your relationships, work or school life, and ability to rest and sleep soundly. Keep reading to learn how to book a free call and get help now.
(949) 528-4784 View (949) 528-4784
Photo of Perry David Passaro, PhD, Psychologist
Perry David Passaro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92602
Have you, your child or a loved one been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, OCD or PTSD? Have the treatments not met your goals? Are you searching for something beyond additional medication and talk therapy? If so I believe solutions are available. I have been treating complex behavioral problems with children, adolescents and families for over 30 years and conducting clinical therapy for over 20 years. My training and experience can be of benefit even if prior therapists and various methods have not helped. I specialize in the treatment of complex and developmental problems for children, adolescents and adults including addiction.
Have you, your child or a loved one been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, OCD or PTSD? Have the treatments not met your goals? Are you searching for something beyond additional medication and talk therapy? If so I believe solutions are available. I have been treating complex behavioral problems with children, adolescents and families for over 30 years and conducting clinical therapy for over 20 years. My training and experience can be of benefit even if prior therapists and various methods have not helped. I specialize in the treatment of complex and developmental problems for children, adolescents and adults including addiction.
(714) 862-2071 View (714) 862-2071
Photo of Claire Breedlove, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Breedlove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92697  (Online Only)
I help Latter-day Saints who struggle with a kind of obsessive compulsive disorder called scrupulosity find peace in their spiritual lives. My clients want to have good experiences at church, in the temple, or on a mission, but their OCD and anxiety always gets in the way. They are worried that they aren’t worthy, that the Church isn’t true, and that they aren’t going to be with their families forever. They also struggle with other OCD themes in addition to scrupulosity.
I help Latter-day Saints who struggle with a kind of obsessive compulsive disorder called scrupulosity find peace in their spiritual lives. My clients want to have good experiences at church, in the temple, or on a mission, but their OCD and anxiety always gets in the way. They are worried that they aren’t worthy, that the Church isn’t true, and that they aren’t going to be with their families forever. They also struggle with other OCD themes in addition to scrupulosity.
(214) 225-6453 View (214) 225-6453
Photo of Curtis Hsia - Orange County Anxiety Center, PhD, Psychologist
Orange County Anxiety Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92620
Anxiety, panic, fear, and OCD have answers. You can take control. Patients average a 15-week treatment under our specialists. We also offer 6 to 8 day intensive formats. We use empirically supported treatments tailored to each individual, including home visits and practicing skills outside of the office setting. Our pride is in our success rate.
Anxiety, panic, fear, and OCD have answers. You can take control. Patients average a 15-week treatment under our specialists. We also offer 6 to 8 day intensive formats. We use empirically supported treatments tailored to each individual, including home visits and practicing skills outside of the office setting. Our pride is in our success rate.
(949) 558-2610 View (949) 558-2610
Photo of Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
Hello, I specialize in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders. I have been featured on CNN's Newsroom, the Anderson Cooper Show and A&E's "Obsessed" due to my expertise in the treatment of OCD and related anxiety disorders. My highly specialized training has equipped me to treat individuals who struggle with various types of anxiety, worry, fear, obsessions, or compulsive behavioral patterns. I have extensive training and experience in treating eating disorders and issues related to body image distress. I treat all ages, but have specialized training in pediatric and adolescent development.
Hello, I specialize in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders. I have been featured on CNN's Newsroom, the Anderson Cooper Show and A&E's "Obsessed" due to my expertise in the treatment of OCD and related anxiety disorders. My highly specialized training has equipped me to treat individuals who struggle with various types of anxiety, worry, fear, obsessions, or compulsive behavioral patterns. I have extensive training and experience in treating eating disorders and issues related to body image distress. I treat all ages, but have specialized training in pediatric and adolescent development.
(949) 427-2521 View (949) 427-2521
Photo of David Pincus, PhD, Psychologist
David Pincus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92606
In addition to training in the most effective behavioral approaches to anxiety (including panic and OCD) and symptoms of depression, I have specialty training in child, family, and marital therapy and also in guided imagery for pain management.
I am an Tenured Professor of Clinical Psychology at Chapman University (for my academic background, click here or paste in browser: https://www.chapman.edu/our-faculty/david-pincus). Of my various pursuits, psychotherapy is what I enjoy doing most. I been practicing therapy since 1992, and have benefited from the best possible training along the way. I am confident in knowing what makes therapy effective, but also in the uniqueness of each person's situation. My style is down-to-earth and practical. My job is basically to help you get you where you want to be in life in the simplest way that we can find.
In addition to training in the most effective behavioral approaches to anxiety (including panic and OCD) and symptoms of depression, I have specialty training in child, family, and marital therapy and also in guided imagery for pain management.
I am an Tenured Professor of Clinical Psychology at Chapman University (for my academic background, click here or paste in browser: https://www.chapman.edu/our-faculty/david-pincus). Of my various pursuits, psychotherapy is what I enjoy doing most. I been practicing therapy since 1992, and have benefited from the best possible training along the way. I am confident in knowing what makes therapy effective, but also in the uniqueness of each person's situation. My style is down-to-earth and practical. My job is basically to help you get you where you want to be in life in the simplest way that we can find.
(714) 584-4925 View (714) 584-4925
Photo of Tracy A. Kuhar - Tracy Kuhar Clinical Counseling and Coaching, MA, LMFT, CM, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Kuhar Clinical Counseling and Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CM
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92614
As a client-centered and solution focused therapist, my practice has a clear focus on clients living with Dual Diagnosis, prior life traumas, PTSD, OCD, Mood Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, Undefined/ Defined Anger and challenges with Addiction. I work with couples, individuals, families and children in Orange and Los Angeles counties and surrounding areas. EMDR Trained.
As a client-centered and solution focused therapist, my practice has a clear focus on clients living with Dual Diagnosis, prior life traumas, PTSD, OCD, Mood Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, Undefined/ Defined Anger and challenges with Addiction. I work with couples, individuals, families and children in Orange and Los Angeles counties and surrounding areas. EMDR Trained.
(949) 353-6003 View (949) 353-6003
Photo of Brandon Vazirian, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandon Vazirian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604
My specialties include OCD, Eating Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
The resiliency of people is always something that inspires me. It is my belief that each person is unique and has the potential to grow and change, all it takes is the desire and the commitment to do the work. As a therapist I have had the privilege of walking along side people and see these changes first hand, whether it's through an awaking of insight, breaking patterns of behavior, lifting of anxiety/depression, or deepening of relationships. Therapy is an intimate, empowering experience, and it is truly a beautiful thing to see people meet their goals and lead the lives they always wanted. Lets begin that journey together today.
My specialties include OCD, Eating Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
The resiliency of people is always something that inspires me. It is my belief that each person is unique and has the potential to grow and change, all it takes is the desire and the commitment to do the work. As a therapist I have had the privilege of walking along side people and see these changes first hand, whether it's through an awaking of insight, breaking patterns of behavior, lifting of anxiety/depression, or deepening of relationships. Therapy is an intimate, empowering experience, and it is truly a beautiful thing to see people meet their goals and lead the lives they always wanted. Lets begin that journey together today.
(714) 989-6973 View (714) 989-6973
Photo of Lisa Phillips, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Phillips
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
Time to make a change? I am here to help. I practice Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on teaching coping skills and solving problems, and has been demonstrated by research to be highly effective in producing results. My specialties are anxiety, OCD, and depression, but I have experience successfully treating most problems. In addition to teaching how to resolve and manage problems, I focus on improving overall quality of life by increasing happiness and meaningfulness. I work with all ages - children, adolescents, adults, and families. I love my work and I am very dedicated to seeing my clients improve!
Time to make a change? I am here to help. I practice Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on teaching coping skills and solving problems, and has been demonstrated by research to be highly effective in producing results. My specialties are anxiety, OCD, and depression, but I have experience successfully treating most problems. In addition to teaching how to resolve and manage problems, I focus on improving overall quality of life by increasing happiness and meaningfulness. I work with all ages - children, adolescents, adults, and families. I love my work and I am very dedicated to seeing my clients improve!
(949) 354-3561 View (949) 354-3561
Photo of Michelle Hobson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Hobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92606
Booking open through August! I specialize in empowering people who are stuck in micro thinking patterns, craving a shift to a macro perspective. I help people who feel trapped in the pressures of life's transitions. If you're battling perfectionism, body image issues, or struggling with balancing masculine and feminine energies, that's my vibe. My ideal client is seeking independence, grappling with the confines of the patriarchy and diet culture. Together, we'll navigate through eating disorders, depression, trauma, CPTSD, anxiety, OCD, and adjustment disorders.
Booking open through August! I specialize in empowering people who are stuck in micro thinking patterns, craving a shift to a macro perspective. I help people who feel trapped in the pressures of life's transitions. If you're battling perfectionism, body image issues, or struggling with balancing masculine and feminine energies, that's my vibe. My ideal client is seeking independence, grappling with the confines of the patriarchy and diet culture. Together, we'll navigate through eating disorders, depression, trauma, CPTSD, anxiety, OCD, and adjustment disorders.
(949) 269-6281 View (949) 269-6281
Photo of Lulu Skafi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lulu Skafi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92602  (Online Only)
Through targeted exposures to triggers, you’ll learn to navigate anxiety with compassion, rediscover your power, and break out of the constraints of anxiety and OCD.
You already checked to make sure your front door was locked, and now you’re going to check again. It’s always the same struggle; an intrusive idea takes root and refuses to let go. From there, it spirals out of control, multiplying into countless variations and scenarios. You know that logically it doesn’t make any sense, but you can’t help yourself. "What's wrong with me?" you keep wondering. You’re constantly trapped in a cycle of distressing thoughts, compelled to engage in repetitive behaviors or safety measures. It's a constant battle, and you long for a life free from the grip of these obsessions and compulsions.
Through targeted exposures to triggers, you’ll learn to navigate anxiety with compassion, rediscover your power, and break out of the constraints of anxiety and OCD.
You already checked to make sure your front door was locked, and now you’re going to check again. It’s always the same struggle; an intrusive idea takes root and refuses to let go. From there, it spirals out of control, multiplying into countless variations and scenarios. You know that logically it doesn’t make any sense, but you can’t help yourself. "What's wrong with me?" you keep wondering. You’re constantly trapped in a cycle of distressing thoughts, compelled to engage in repetitive behaviors or safety measures. It's a constant battle, and you long for a life free from the grip of these obsessions and compulsions.
(949) 203-7447 View (949) 203-7447
Photo of Dr. Sarah Schall, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Schall
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92602
I have experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with severe OCD in inpatient, partial hospitalization (PHP), and intensive outpatient (IOP) programs.
“Why am I having these thoughts?…This does not feel right… I’m scared…I have to do these compulsions to feel better…If people really knew the thoughts I have, no one would want to be around me anymore…”. These are all thoughts patients have expressed to me throughout the years. I am a clinical psychologist with extensive training and experience working with OCD, family dynamics, and familial accommodation. I specialize in evidenced-based treatment for OCD and anxiety disorders utilizing Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I have experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with severe OCD in inpatient, partial hospitalization (PHP), and intensive outpatient (IOP) programs.
“Why am I having these thoughts?…This does not feel right… I’m scared…I have to do these compulsions to feel better…If people really knew the thoughts I have, no one would want to be around me anymore…”. These are all thoughts patients have expressed to me throughout the years. I am a clinical psychologist with extensive training and experience working with OCD, family dynamics, and familial accommodation. I specialize in evidenced-based treatment for OCD and anxiety disorders utilizing Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(323) 736-5231 View (323) 736-5231
Photo of Dianne Tiberg, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dianne Tiberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92602  (Online Only)
My passion is helping individuals, children, and families to find relief and look forward to their futures. Whether it is anxiety, OCD, PANDAS, or other related struggles, I look forward to partnering with you to find a fresh perspective. Maybe your child is struggling or you need extra support as their caretaker; I am here to help. Wondering if video telehealth sessions are for you? I have found that telehealth sessions are both convenient for clients to easily attend in the midst of their busy lives, as well as allows us to work on anxiety using the home environment or including important family support.
My passion is helping individuals, children, and families to find relief and look forward to their futures. Whether it is anxiety, OCD, PANDAS, or other related struggles, I look forward to partnering with you to find a fresh perspective. Maybe your child is struggling or you need extra support as their caretaker; I am here to help. Wondering if video telehealth sessions are for you? I have found that telehealth sessions are both convenient for clients to easily attend in the midst of their busy lives, as well as allows us to work on anxiety using the home environment or including important family support.
(562) 454-1251 View (562) 454-1251
Photo of Shelby Kruse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Kruse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606  (Online Only)
For the past two years, I have been in the outpatient therapy setting, specializing in the treatment of OCD, Social Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. More recently I was trained in the treatment of Depression. Before this, I had six years of experience working within the acute care setting in which I provided clinical intervention for life-threatening illnesses, death/dying, substance abuse, traumatic injuries, suicidality and self-harm, and adjustment issues. My therapeutic style is solution-oriented, outcome-based. I also really emphasize self-compassion.
For the past two years, I have been in the outpatient therapy setting, specializing in the treatment of OCD, Social Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. More recently I was trained in the treatment of Depression. Before this, I had six years of experience working within the acute care setting in which I provided clinical intervention for life-threatening illnesses, death/dying, substance abuse, traumatic injuries, suicidality and self-harm, and adjustment issues. My therapeutic style is solution-oriented, outcome-based. I also really emphasize self-compassion.
(949) 822-9355 View (949) 822-9355
Photo of Ann-Margaret Mercier, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ann-Margaret Mercier
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92614
Research suggests that it often takes a decade or more for those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to find appropriate treatment. As a therapist with lived experience of this complex and often misunderstood condition, I know firsthand both how painful and debilitating OCD can be as well as the limitations of traditional talk therapy in the treatment of obsessions and compulsions. My goal is to empower clients by providing them with the evidence-based tools and emotional support they need not only to successfully manage symptoms of OCD and anxiety disorders, but to thrive beyond the illusion of absolute certainty.
Research suggests that it often takes a decade or more for those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to find appropriate treatment. As a therapist with lived experience of this complex and often misunderstood condition, I know firsthand both how painful and debilitating OCD can be as well as the limitations of traditional talk therapy in the treatment of obsessions and compulsions. My goal is to empower clients by providing them with the evidence-based tools and emotional support they need not only to successfully manage symptoms of OCD and anxiety disorders, but to thrive beyond the illusion of absolute certainty.
(657) 571-2946 View (657) 571-2946
Photo of Jillian Jeffries, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jillian Jeffries
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92602  (Online Only)
As an AMFT, I have a passion for working with young adults, college students, and teens striving for a safe space to process difficult and chaotic life circumstances. I often utilize a mix of CBT and EFT therapy to help clients learn new ways of taking care of, showing up for themselves, and learning new coping skills that can be utilized for a lifetime. I am passionate about working with clients with anxiety, OCD, depression, and those that wish to further exploring their inner world and want to create changes in their daily life.
As an AMFT, I have a passion for working with young adults, college students, and teens striving for a safe space to process difficult and chaotic life circumstances. I often utilize a mix of CBT and EFT therapy to help clients learn new ways of taking care of, showing up for themselves, and learning new coping skills that can be utilized for a lifetime. I am passionate about working with clients with anxiety, OCD, depression, and those that wish to further exploring their inner world and want to create changes in their daily life.
(714) 909-2071 View (714) 909-2071
Photo of Robyn L Travis - Robyn Travis Counseling LLC , LPCC
Robyn Travis Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
My services were created to provide specialized counseling for those struggling with Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Trauma and other mental health issues. With over 24 years working as a therapist at all levels of care, I am committed to helping the community heal and find hope. I provide outpatient counseling services via Teletherapy only. If you are in need of someone who is invested in walking along side of you in your recovery journey then call my office. I am currently accepting new clients in my private practice. You can also schedule with me at AbleTo.com for an 8-10 weeks of personalized treatment.
My services were created to provide specialized counseling for those struggling with Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Trauma and other mental health issues. With over 24 years working as a therapist at all levels of care, I am committed to helping the community heal and find hope. I provide outpatient counseling services via Teletherapy only. If you are in need of someone who is invested in walking along side of you in your recovery journey then call my office. I am currently accepting new clients in my private practice. You can also schedule with me at AbleTo.com for an 8-10 weeks of personalized treatment.
(909) 655-4602 View (909) 655-4602
Photo of Czarina De Jesus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Czarina De Jesus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92602
I also worked for The OCD Treatment Center in which I provided IOPs for those with OCD/anxiety.
I trust in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship through acceptance & attunement.. which means I want to know your WORLD. Tell me about your favorite things/interests/etc! I aspire to provide a space in which we can be authentic, explore together, and even have fun! I aim to bring enthusiasm, warmth, empathy, (& humor!) into the room, while also working hard to make the changes needed for you to live your best life. We'll find tools that help you move with the emotions, not against them. I want to know YOU so I can better understand your strengths AND your challenges. That means parents, I might want to know you too! :)
I also worked for The OCD Treatment Center in which I provided IOPs for those with OCD/anxiety.
I trust in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship through acceptance & attunement.. which means I want to know your WORLD. Tell me about your favorite things/interests/etc! I aspire to provide a space in which we can be authentic, explore together, and even have fun! I aim to bring enthusiasm, warmth, empathy, (& humor!) into the room, while also working hard to make the changes needed for you to live your best life. We'll find tools that help you move with the emotions, not against them. I want to know YOU so I can better understand your strengths AND your challenges. That means parents, I might want to know you too! :)
(949) 771-2698 View (949) 771-2698
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Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists

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.