Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Laguna Beach, CA

Photo of Dr. Noelle Deckman, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Noelle Deckman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651  (Online Only)
I practice CBT (includes ERP, CPT, ACT, DBT) to treat OCD and Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders, Somatic Symptom Disorders, and I offer group therapy for OCD.
I am a clinical psychologist and the owner of OCD, Anxiety, & Trauma Psychological Services P.C., which serves residents of California, Maine, and people living in PSYPACT participating states. I offer evidence-based care via Telehealth for people who may struggle to find help due to their geographic location, busy schedule, etc. I prioritize working collaboratively throughout the treatment process, while also striving to empower people to make effective, long-lasting changes in their lives.
I practice CBT (includes ERP, CPT, ACT, DBT) to treat OCD and Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders, Somatic Symptom Disorders, and I offer group therapy for OCD.
I am a clinical psychologist and the owner of OCD, Anxiety, & Trauma Psychological Services P.C., which serves residents of California, Maine, and people living in PSYPACT participating states. I offer evidence-based care via Telehealth for people who may struggle to find help due to their geographic location, busy schedule, etc. I prioritize working collaboratively throughout the treatment process, while also striving to empower people to make effective, long-lasting changes in their lives.
(949) 942-8753 View (949) 942-8753
Photo of Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
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 Sarah Burney - Burney Therapy Group, LCSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Burney Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
With over a decade of experience as a LCSW and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, Sarah is an expert in her field who has found purpose in helping others find freedom, safety, and peace. She specializes in treating EDs, trauma, SUDs, OCD, and anxiety/depression. In session with Sarah, you'll benefit from her humanistic and psychoanalytic therapeutic approach, and implementation of CBT, DBT, ACT, & EMDR (when indicated). Using compassion, authenticity, and humor, Sarah creates a space where honesty and growth is encouraged. With this approach, you'll feel supported, and simultaneously challenged to take steps toward your goals.
With over a decade of experience as a LCSW and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, Sarah is an expert in her field who has found purpose in helping others find freedom, safety, and peace. She specializes in treating EDs, trauma, SUDs, OCD, and anxiety/depression. In session with Sarah, you'll benefit from her humanistic and psychoanalytic therapeutic approach, and implementation of CBT, DBT, ACT, & EMDR (when indicated). Using compassion, authenticity, and humor, Sarah creates a space where honesty and growth is encouraged. With this approach, you'll feel supported, and simultaneously challenged to take steps toward your goals.
(562) 362-3493 View (562) 362-3493
Photo of Lavon L Head, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lavon L Head
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92677
Licensed in both Texas and California. With a bachelor's in psychology and a master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and as a licensed therapist in 2 states, my experience includes working in private practice as well as a substance abuse rehabilitation center. I have specialized training to work with couples utilizing Gottman principles and treating anxiety and OCD with exposure therapy. I welcome everyone to my practice and treat many issues. I am also a certified Trauma Professional.
Licensed in both Texas and California. With a bachelor's in psychology and a master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and as a licensed therapist in 2 states, my experience includes working in private practice as well as a substance abuse rehabilitation center. I have specialized training to work with couples utilizing Gottman principles and treating anxiety and OCD with exposure therapy. I welcome everyone to my practice and treat many issues. I am also a certified Trauma Professional.
(682) 297-6080 View (682) 297-6080
Photo of Lulu Skafi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lulu Skafi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92607  (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 Czarina De Jesus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Czarina De Jesus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92607
I am also trained in EMDR & am comfortable working with OCD, anxiety, & depression.
Fun, personal, creative therapy! To help you learn all about life's emotions, Inside and Out (& yes, that's a subtle movie reference) ;) I love working with kids, teens, young adults, and members of the Asian community. As your therapist, I want to know your WORLD. Tell me your favorite things/interests/etc! I aspire to have a space where 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 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!
I am also trained in EMDR & am comfortable working with OCD, anxiety, & depression.
Fun, personal, creative therapy! To help you learn all about life's emotions, Inside and Out (& yes, that's a subtle movie reference) ;) I love working with kids, teens, young adults, and members of the Asian community. As your therapist, I want to know your WORLD. Tell me your favorite things/interests/etc! I aspire to have a space where 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 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!
(949) 771-2698 View (949) 771-2698
Photo of Michelle Hobson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Hobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Booking open through November in California and Idaho! My approach to client care must consider the culture of the client. Culture can have a lot variables, shaping each person uniquely. I love helping 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, I'm your girl. 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. Let's get started!
Booking open through November in California and Idaho! My approach to client care must consider the culture of the client. Culture can have a lot variables, shaping each person uniquely. I love helping 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, I'm your girl. 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. Let's get started!
(949) 269-6281 View (949) 269-6281
Photo of Curtis Hsia, PhD, Psychologist
Curtis Hsia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92656
Anxiety, panic, fear, and OCD have answers. You can take control. As the director of the OC Anxiety Center, we use empirically supported treatments (CBT and ACT), tailored to each individual. Through the use of virtual therapy and in-person exposure therapy, we provide my patients with over 25 years of experience, specializing in OCD, Anxiety, and related disorders. Our patients average a 15-week treatment, with the option of 6 to 8-day intensive formats. Our focus is to do a proper assessment to understand the issues and help my patients to set goals, achieve them, and move on in life as quickly as possible.
Anxiety, panic, fear, and OCD have answers. You can take control. As the director of the OC Anxiety Center, we use empirically supported treatments (CBT and ACT), tailored to each individual. Through the use of virtual therapy and in-person exposure therapy, we provide my patients with over 25 years of experience, specializing in OCD, Anxiety, and related disorders. Our patients average a 15-week treatment, with the option of 6 to 8-day intensive formats. Our focus is to do a proper assessment to understand the issues and help my patients to set goals, achieve them, and move on in life as quickly as possible.
(805) 243-1296 View (805) 243-1296
Photo of Jennifer Lucas, MS, LMFT, EMDR, EFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR, EFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I specialize in the the treatment of trauma, OCD, relationships, and personal growth.
Are you feeling worried, self-critical or unable to do the things you want to most? Do you wish you could feel better and supported? Non-judgmental, understanding, effective and supportive care can help deal with life transitions or issues to help you be the best you.
I specialize in the the treatment of trauma, OCD, relationships, and personal growth.
Are you feeling worried, self-critical or unable to do the things you want to most? Do you wish you could feel better and supported? Non-judgmental, understanding, effective and supportive care can help deal with life transitions or issues to help you be the best you.
(657) 220-6390 View (657) 220-6390
Photo of Dawn Nelson - Cornell Counseling & Behavioral Health, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cornell Counseling & Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
As Psychologists, and Marriage & Family Therapists, we treat hundreds of patients and understand the intricacies of various psychological issues that people face. Combining traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Coaching, we have successfully treated patients with Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Relationship Issues, ADHD, and a host of other issues. Unlike traditional therapy that relies heavily on the past and understanding why you do what you do, Cornell Counseling and Behavioral Health is focused on helping you with the tools to move forward and create change. We have a more collaborative and goal-oriented approach to treatment.
As Psychologists, and Marriage & Family Therapists, we treat hundreds of patients and understand the intricacies of various psychological issues that people face. Combining traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Coaching, we have successfully treated patients with Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Relationship Issues, ADHD, and a host of other issues. Unlike traditional therapy that relies heavily on the past and understanding why you do what you do, Cornell Counseling and Behavioral Health is focused on helping you with the tools to move forward and create change. We have a more collaborative and goal-oriented approach to treatment.
(949) 763-4203 View (949) 763-4203
Photo of Jerry Weichman - The Weichman Clinic, PhD, Psychologist
The Weichman Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
We diagnose and serve children and adolescents coping with: * Abusive Dating Relationships * Academic Challenges * ADHD * Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders * Austism and Spectrum-Related Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Body Image Issues * Chronic Headaches * Concussions * Cutting and Self-Mutilation * Depression * Epilepsy * Family Relational Problems * Learning Disorders * Low Self Esteem * Movement Disorders * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder * Oppositional Defiance and Behavioral Problems * Substance Abuse * Trauma and PTSD.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
We diagnose and serve children and adolescents coping with: * Abusive Dating Relationships * Academic Challenges * ADHD * Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders * Austism and Spectrum-Related Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Body Image Issues * Chronic Headaches * Concussions * Cutting and Self-Mutilation * Depression * Epilepsy * Family Relational Problems * Learning Disorders * Low Self Esteem * Movement Disorders * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder * Oppositional Defiance and Behavioral Problems * Substance Abuse * Trauma and PTSD.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
(949) 537-2393 View (949) 537-2393
Photo of Dianna Stark, LCSW, CAMS, CAMF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dianna Stark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS, CAMF
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92607
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist with 27 years of experience. I am licensed to practice in 3 states, CA, NY and NJ.. I hold numerous specialty certifications and I have extensive training in, cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, Exposure Therapy and psychodynamic (insight oriented) psychotherapy. I provide short and long term treatment, depending on a client's needs and wishes. Some of my specialties include: Anxiety disorders and stress management, physician burnout, anger management, depression, communication issues, relationship/marital issues, special education advocacy and learning disabilities
I am a psychotherapist with 27 years of experience. I am licensed to practice in 3 states, CA, NY and NJ.. I hold numerous specialty certifications and I have extensive training in, cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, Exposure Therapy and psychodynamic (insight oriented) psychotherapy. I provide short and long term treatment, depending on a client's needs and wishes. Some of my specialties include: Anxiety disorders and stress management, physician burnout, anger management, depression, communication issues, relationship/marital issues, special education advocacy and learning disabilities
(949) 536-9359 View (949) 536-9359
Photo of Kim Harris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92656  (Online Only)
I am drawn to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) because of its systematic and goal-oriented approach while simultaneously allowing for a warm and collaborative relationship. As a therapist, CBT is appealing because of its evidence-based status and overall treatment success with longer-lasting symptom relief. It is rewarding to watch my clients gain the confidence to use the tools outside of sessions and become their own best therapist. I provide short-term counseling 12-16 sessions, assigning homework after each session, and having a structured approach to help my clients have a clear idea of what to expect once we get started!
I am drawn to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) because of its systematic and goal-oriented approach while simultaneously allowing for a warm and collaborative relationship. As a therapist, CBT is appealing because of its evidence-based status and overall treatment success with longer-lasting symptom relief. It is rewarding to watch my clients gain the confidence to use the tools outside of sessions and become their own best therapist. I provide short-term counseling 12-16 sessions, assigning homework after each session, and having a structured approach to help my clients have a clear idea of what to expect once we get started!
(949) 787-1220 View (949) 787-1220
Photo of Shelly Short, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelly Short
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Hi there, I'm Shelly, an experienced licensed marriage and family therapist. I facilitate and guide clients through their emotional growth and healing process. I am open-minded, solution-focused, and goal-oriented. I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based psychotherapy approach that works to heal mental, emotional, and behavioral issues such as trauma, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, addiction, codependency and relationship problems. In addition to EMDR, I use CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Techniques.
Hi there, I'm Shelly, an experienced licensed marriage and family therapist. I facilitate and guide clients through their emotional growth and healing process. I am open-minded, solution-focused, and goal-oriented. I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based psychotherapy approach that works to heal mental, emotional, and behavioral issues such as trauma, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, addiction, codependency and relationship problems. In addition to EMDR, I use CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Techniques.
(949) 997-2989 View (949) 997-2989
Photo of Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651  (Online Only)
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
(805) 283-6695 View (805) 283-6695
Photo of Inner Fokus, Psychologist
Inner Fokus
Psychologist
Not Verified Not Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
More than just a way to capture attention, the spelling of Inner Fōkus also carries a personal meaning to the founders. The name is a nod to the German heritage shared by both Dr. Lori and Dr. Patrick, since “fōkus” is the correct spelling of “focus” in German. Our heritage, culture, and environment can have great impacts in shaping who we are. Our name, Inner Fōkus, also serves as a prominent reminder of the importance to occasionally break from current patterns and try new things.
More than just a way to capture attention, the spelling of Inner Fōkus also carries a personal meaning to the founders. The name is a nod to the German heritage shared by both Dr. Lori and Dr. Patrick, since “fōkus” is the correct spelling of “focus” in German. Our heritage, culture, and environment can have great impacts in shaping who we are. Our name, Inner Fōkus, also serves as a prominent reminder of the importance to occasionally break from current patterns and try new things.
(218) 485-3273 View (218) 485-3273
Photo of Julie Maul, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Maul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Are you questioning whether you should continue in your current relationship? Is your daily life plagued with arguing? Do you need help with communication? Are there trust issues or an infidelity? In a satisfying relationship and planning on getting married? Do you need help ending a relationship? Is your relationship affecting other family members? Have you been feeling depressed or anxious? Are you having difficulty with disturbing memories of a traumatic event? Are you experiencing chronic pain or have you been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, RSD or migraines? Are you faced with a dilemma and need a sounding board? I can help.
Are you questioning whether you should continue in your current relationship? Is your daily life plagued with arguing? Do you need help with communication? Are there trust issues or an infidelity? In a satisfying relationship and planning on getting married? Do you need help ending a relationship? Is your relationship affecting other family members? Have you been feeling depressed or anxious? Are you having difficulty with disturbing memories of a traumatic event? Are you experiencing chronic pain or have you been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, RSD or migraines? Are you faced with a dilemma and need a sounding board? I can help.
(949) 541-5992 View (949) 541-5992
Photo of Lori Aleknavicius, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Lori Aleknavicius
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92652
I am a licensed psychologist who has extensive therapy experience treating children, adolescents, adults and families in a wide variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, residential, and school settings. I have provided individual, family and group therapy services to, as well as conducted psychological evaluations on, children, adolescents, adults and families of varying cultures, ethnicities, religions affiliations, sexual orientations, and levels of socioeconomic status. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, relational problems,and disorders usually diagnosed during childhood. I value each client as a unique individual and tailor my treatment approaches based on individual characteristics.
I am a licensed psychologist who has extensive therapy experience treating children, adolescents, adults and families in a wide variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, residential, and school settings. I have provided individual, family and group therapy services to, as well as conducted psychological evaluations on, children, adolescents, adults and families of varying cultures, ethnicities, religions affiliations, sexual orientations, and levels of socioeconomic status. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, relational problems,and disorders usually diagnosed during childhood. I value each client as a unique individual and tailor my treatment approaches based on individual characteristics.
(949) 393-4219 View (949) 393-4219
Photo of Patrick Aleknavicius, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Patrick Aleknavicius
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92652
I am a firm believer in thorough evaluation early on in the therapy process. I frequently use my expertise in psychological testing to assist in this diagnostic process to ensure the most effective and appropriate treatments are used. While the human condition allows for great challenges and pain, it also allows for miraculous opportunities for healing and growth. Therapy is a collaborative relationship. I focus treatment on a combination of providing information, skill building, and evidence based treatments. Being tech-interested also helps me connect with younger clients, and bridge the gap of resistance to change or getting help.
I am a firm believer in thorough evaluation early on in the therapy process. I frequently use my expertise in psychological testing to assist in this diagnostic process to ensure the most effective and appropriate treatments are used. While the human condition allows for great challenges and pain, it also allows for miraculous opportunities for healing and growth. Therapy is a collaborative relationship. I focus treatment on a combination of providing information, skill building, and evidence based treatments. Being tech-interested also helps me connect with younger clients, and bridge the gap of resistance to change or getting help.
(866) 660-5367 View (866) 660-5367
Photo of Kathleen 'Kay' Wenger, MA, LPCC, LMFT, Counselor
Kathleen 'Kay' Wenger
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
In our work together we will maintain a comfortable, respectful atmosphere while exploring your concerns and tailoring an approach that fits your specific needs. In a world that can divide us, I work with people to focus on the positive attributes in their relationships and to explore forgiveness for the mistakes that are made along the relational journey. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with couples, individuals and families. I was an educator of Marriage, Family Therapy at Pepperdine University where I worked for 30 years as their Manager of MA Clinical Training and Professional Development.
In our work together we will maintain a comfortable, respectful atmosphere while exploring your concerns and tailoring an approach that fits your specific needs. In a world that can divide us, I work with people to focus on the positive attributes in their relationships and to explore forgiveness for the mistakes that are made along the relational journey. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with couples, individuals and families. I was an educator of Marriage, Family Therapy at Pepperdine University where I worked for 30 years as their Manager of MA Clinical Training and Professional Development.
(949) 446-1772 View (949) 446-1772
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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.