Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Lake Balboa, CA

Photo of Bianca DeGroat, BA, CHT, ARTT, CMS
Bianca DeGroat
BA, CHT, ARTT, CMS
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
I help people of all ages feel more optimistic and enthusiastic about life, without medication. I specialize in the release of depression, anxiety, negativity, jealousy, lack of motivation, weight issues, perfectionism, anger problems and anything that is a result of low self-esteem. If you would like to move through the world with more confidence and ease, you must be willing to see yourself in a different way, and with Rapid Transformational Therapy and hypnotherapy, I can help you achieve that. As human beings, we can get stuck in a pattern of negative thinking and that only keeps us from getting what we want. So, I work with the subconscious mind to change the neural pathways in your brain so that a new way of thinking can change your trajectory in this life, getting you out of your own way and giving you a fresh perspective.
I help people of all ages feel more optimistic and enthusiastic about life, without medication. I specialize in the release of depression, anxiety, negativity, jealousy, lack of motivation, weight issues, perfectionism, anger problems and anything that is a result of low self-esteem. If you would like to move through the world with more confidence and ease, you must be willing to see yourself in a different way, and with Rapid Transformational Therapy and hypnotherapy, I can help you achieve that. As human beings, we can get stuck in a pattern of negative thinking and that only keeps us from getting what we want. So, I work with the subconscious mind to change the neural pathways in your brain so that a new way of thinking can change your trajectory in this life, getting you out of your own way and giving you a fresh perspective.
(323) 746-1051 View (323) 746-1051
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(323) 859-6635 View (323) 859-6635
Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(323) 897-8510 View (323) 897-8510
Photo of Erick Santos, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(323) 677-2839 View (323) 677-2839
Photo of George Livengood, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
George Livengood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
Choosing a therapist can be difficult, complicated by therapy jargon. To put it simply, we will examine your past, evaluate your present, and collaborate on your future. Therapy is not without risk. However, I will provide a safe environment and a non-judgmental ear for you to explore your life and its infinite possibilities. You will determine where you want to go, and I will work with you to help you get there. I look forward to hearing from you.
Choosing a therapist can be difficult, complicated by therapy jargon. To put it simply, we will examine your past, evaluate your present, and collaborate on your future. Therapy is not without risk. However, I will provide a safe environment and a non-judgmental ear for you to explore your life and its infinite possibilities. You will determine where you want to go, and I will work with you to help you get there. I look forward to hearing from you.
(760) 274-0176 View (760) 274-0176
Photo of Guadalupe Avitia, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Guadalupe Avitia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, know that you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Together, we can explore your experiences, unravel the complexities of your emotions, and work towards the goals that matter most to you. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to heal from trauma, my approach is tailored to meet you where you are.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, know that you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Together, we can explore your experiences, unravel the complexities of your emotions, and work towards the goals that matter most to you. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to heal from trauma, my approach is tailored to meet you where you are.
(323) 968-6796 View (323) 968-6796
Photo of Danielle Cutler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Cutler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Not accepting new clients
I collaborate with clients dealing with all kinds of issues—depression, anxiety, overwhelm, low self-esteem, body image, OCD, transitions (divorce/breakup, moving, job change, going to college), relationships, sexual/emotional/narcissistic abuse, ADHD, (step-)parenting, grief (various loss), adoption, career, multicultural- and LGBTQ-specific, and more.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified ADHD Professional. I work through a depth-psychology lens to pinpoint and heal developmental and trauma wounds by identifying unconscious/subconscious thoughts that create the symptoms that lead you to therapy. Meanwhile, I simultaneously provide knowledge and tools to empower and guide you to discovery of your true Self. During the pandemic I experienced and then trained in brainspotting, which I use in person, online, and over the phone to nuke the source of stubborn symptoms that have not responded to traditional talk therapy.
I collaborate with clients dealing with all kinds of issues—depression, anxiety, overwhelm, low self-esteem, body image, OCD, transitions (divorce/breakup, moving, job change, going to college), relationships, sexual/emotional/narcissistic abuse, ADHD, (step-)parenting, grief (various loss), adoption, career, multicultural- and LGBTQ-specific, and more.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified ADHD Professional. I work through a depth-psychology lens to pinpoint and heal developmental and trauma wounds by identifying unconscious/subconscious thoughts that create the symptoms that lead you to therapy. Meanwhile, I simultaneously provide knowledge and tools to empower and guide you to discovery of your true Self. During the pandemic I experienced and then trained in brainspotting, which I use in person, online, and over the phone to nuke the source of stubborn symptoms that have not responded to traditional talk therapy.
(818) 369-3078 View (818) 369-3078

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lynne D Freeman - Anxiety Specialists of Los Angeles, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anxiety Specialists of Los Angeles
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
OCD is treated using Exposure Response Prevention which is recognized as the therapy of choice for OCD.
Anxiety Specialists of Los Angeles is a practice dedicated to treating individuals with anxiety disorders and related conditions. Dr. Freeman is the author of Panic Free: Eliminate Anxiety/Panic Attacks without the use of drugs She is an international authority in the assessment and treatment of anxiety and has earned a reputation for treating the most resistant cases.Dr.Susan Holt, has earned the prestigious BTTI certification from the International OCD Foundation. Both clinicians are active members of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and the International Obsessive Compulsive Foundation.
OCD is treated using Exposure Response Prevention which is recognized as the therapy of choice for OCD.
Anxiety Specialists of Los Angeles is a practice dedicated to treating individuals with anxiety disorders and related conditions. Dr. Freeman is the author of Panic Free: Eliminate Anxiety/Panic Attacks without the use of drugs She is an international authority in the assessment and treatment of anxiety and has earned a reputation for treating the most resistant cases.Dr.Susan Holt, has earned the prestigious BTTI certification from the International OCD Foundation. Both clinicians are active members of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and the International Obsessive Compulsive Foundation.
(818) 462-8001 View (818) 462-8001
Photo of Jaclyn Friedenthal, PsyD, Psychologist
Jaclyn Friedenthal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I specialize in anxiety and obsessive-compulsive related disorders, and trauma-treatment.
My passion is in helping clients to feel empowered, capable, compassionate, and connected to self and others. I believe that we humans are born with an innate capacity to accept ourselves as we are, ask for our needs to be met, and seek out meaningful social connection. Our life experiences, however, can prevent us from remembering that we are lovable, deserving, competent, and enough as we are. I help clients work through past experiences that may still have a hold on the present. And while working through these barriers, I (gently) push clients to take daily steps in the direction of their goals and values!
I specialize in anxiety and obsessive-compulsive related disorders, and trauma-treatment.
My passion is in helping clients to feel empowered, capable, compassionate, and connected to self and others. I believe that we humans are born with an innate capacity to accept ourselves as we are, ask for our needs to be met, and seek out meaningful social connection. Our life experiences, however, can prevent us from remembering that we are lovable, deserving, competent, and enough as we are. I help clients work through past experiences that may still have a hold on the present. And while working through these barriers, I (gently) push clients to take daily steps in the direction of their goals and values!
(747) 298-6328 View (747) 298-6328
Photo of Jonathan Sickinger - Thrive Fearlessly Counseling | Jonathan Sickinger , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive Fearlessly Counseling | Jonathan Sickinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tarzana, CA 91356  (Online Only)
Struggling with OCD, anxiety, or depression? You can break free and reclaim your life to thrive! I specialize in helping adults aged 18 and over with OCD, anxiety disorders (like generalized anxiety, phobias, social anxiety, and panic), and depressive disorders. Life's challenges can be overwhelming, bringing worry and hopelessness. But these experiences don't define you—they can be opportunities for growth.
Struggling with OCD, anxiety, or depression? You can break free and reclaim your life to thrive! I specialize in helping adults aged 18 and over with OCD, anxiety disorders (like generalized anxiety, phobias, social anxiety, and panic), and depressive disorders. Life's challenges can be overwhelming, bringing worry and hopelessness. But these experiences don't define you—they can be opportunities for growth.
(424) 235-3171 View (424) 235-3171
Photo of Kristine Tye, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine Tye
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
Worry, frustration, or emotional exhaustion may be normal, but they do not have to be the norm. Rather than working harder, let's do what works for you. My approach provides you (or your teenager) with experiences and tools that heal, reduce conflict and move life forward... beyond the limitations of anxiety, stress or trauma. I have extensive experience guiding my clients to heal patterns of worry and stress, anxiety and depression, conflict in communication, social anxiety, OCD, C/PTSD, self-harming and eating disorders.
Worry, frustration, or emotional exhaustion may be normal, but they do not have to be the norm. Rather than working harder, let's do what works for you. My approach provides you (or your teenager) with experiences and tools that heal, reduce conflict and move life forward... beyond the limitations of anxiety, stress or trauma. I have extensive experience guiding my clients to heal patterns of worry and stress, anxiety and depression, conflict in communication, social anxiety, OCD, C/PTSD, self-harming and eating disorders.
(818) 696-5174 View (818) 696-5174
Photo of Ken J Goodman - Anxiety & OCD Treatment of Los Angeles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anxiety & OCD Treatment of Los Angeles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
My name is Ken Goodman and I am passionate about helping adults, teens, and children conquer their anxiety, OCD, fears, phobias, panic attacks, compulsions, worry, trauma, and depression. In my 30 plus years working with patients, I have been a part of the most amazing transformations. Check out the success stories at KenGoodmanTherapy.com as well as the free self-help audios, articles, webinars, and videos. Don't put off getting help. You can get better. There's no reason to suffer.
My name is Ken Goodman and I am passionate about helping adults, teens, and children conquer their anxiety, OCD, fears, phobias, panic attacks, compulsions, worry, trauma, and depression. In my 30 plus years working with patients, I have been a part of the most amazing transformations. Check out the success stories at KenGoodmanTherapy.com as well as the free self-help audios, articles, webinars, and videos. Don't put off getting help. You can get better. There's no reason to suffer.
(818) 835-5105 View (818) 835-5105
Photo of Negar Khaefi - Anxiety Disorders and PTSD Specialist, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anxiety Disorders and PTSD Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91406
Anxiety Disorders such as panic disorder and OCD need specific treatments: CBT, or Exposure and Response Prevention.
Are you suffering with severe daily anxiety about work or relationships? Do you experience disturbing flashes of traumas such as sexual violence, abuse, disasters or the death of a loved one? I am an Anxiety and Trauma Specialist and would love to help. My typical clients experience OCD, panic, derealization, Agoraphobia, insomnia, obsessions, intrusive thoughts, and PTSD symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, dissociation and hyper-vigilance. Most of my clients come in feeling stuck and helpless, like it's never going to get better. We can work together to make it better. PTSD and anxiety are treatable.
Anxiety Disorders such as panic disorder and OCD need specific treatments: CBT, or Exposure and Response Prevention.
Are you suffering with severe daily anxiety about work or relationships? Do you experience disturbing flashes of traumas such as sexual violence, abuse, disasters or the death of a loved one? I am an Anxiety and Trauma Specialist and would love to help. My typical clients experience OCD, panic, derealization, Agoraphobia, insomnia, obsessions, intrusive thoughts, and PTSD symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, dissociation and hyper-vigilance. Most of my clients come in feeling stuck and helpless, like it's never going to get better. We can work together to make it better. PTSD and anxiety are treatable.
(310) 361-0664 View (310) 361-0664
Photo of Jody Green, LPC, Counselor
Jody Green
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91406
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with disordered eating, body image distress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, phase of life issues, OCD, and relational problems.
Greetings! My name is Jody Green and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I specialize in treating disordered eating, body image distress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, and phase-of-life issues. It is my intention to create a safe, caring, and supportive environment for you to express what needs to be heard and process what needs to be felt to heal and reconnect with your life. I value your authenticity and will guide you to connect with the inner wisdom you possess.
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with disordered eating, body image distress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, phase of life issues, OCD, and relational problems.
Greetings! My name is Jody Green and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I specialize in treating disordered eating, body image distress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, and phase-of-life issues. It is my intention to create a safe, caring, and supportive environment for you to express what needs to be heard and process what needs to be felt to heal and reconnect with your life. I value your authenticity and will guide you to connect with the inner wisdom you possess.
(714) 975-5433 View (714) 975-5433
Photo of Linet T Zmrutyan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linet T Zmrutyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 91335
I strive to help my clients reach their life goals. I am passionate about working with people who suffer with anxiety, over-thinking, panic disorders, phobias, OCD, and related anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders can be very overwhelming and can often hold people back from having fulfilling relationships or following their dreams. I would love the opportunity to work with you in reducing your anxiety, in order to give you the chance to live life without barriers!
I strive to help my clients reach their life goals. I am passionate about working with people who suffer with anxiety, over-thinking, panic disorders, phobias, OCD, and related anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders can be very overwhelming and can often hold people back from having fulfilling relationships or following their dreams. I would love the opportunity to work with you in reducing your anxiety, in order to give you the chance to live life without barriers!
(747) 269-1566 View (747) 269-1566
Photo of Saloumeh Kazemi, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Saloumeh Kazemi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91343  (Online Only)
My name is Saloumeh Kazemi (Sally Kazemi) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 144478. I have a bachelor's in psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family, And Child Therapy. I have worked with many different individuals, families, couples, and children. I have experience working with clients who have depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, social anxiety, OCD, trauma, couple’s issues, and family of origin issues.
My name is Saloumeh Kazemi (Sally Kazemi) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 144478. I have a bachelor's in psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family, And Child Therapy. I have worked with many different individuals, families, couples, and children. I have experience working with clients who have depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, social anxiety, OCD, trauma, couple’s issues, and family of origin issues.
(559) 413-0361 View (559) 413-0361
Photo of Dr. Grayce Pedersen, PsyD, PPS, MA, Psychological Associate
Dr. Grayce Pedersen
Psychological Associate, PsyD, PPS, MA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Dr. Grayce Pedersen is a psychological associate under the supervision of Dr. Farzaneh Ehsan. She is registered with the Ca Board of Psychology with over 7 years of clinical experience. Dr. Pedersen provides care for all individuals. 12-99. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults throughout multiple stages of their lives. She focuses on breaking through the challenges of depression, anxiety, ADD, ADHD, and OCD. Dr. Pedersen is a specialist in EBT's: CBT, DBT, MBCT, and psychological assessments. Dr. Pedersen received her BA from UCLA, MA from LMU, and Doctorate from U Chicago SPP.
Dr. Grayce Pedersen is a psychological associate under the supervision of Dr. Farzaneh Ehsan. She is registered with the Ca Board of Psychology with over 7 years of clinical experience. Dr. Pedersen provides care for all individuals. 12-99. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults throughout multiple stages of their lives. She focuses on breaking through the challenges of depression, anxiety, ADD, ADHD, and OCD. Dr. Pedersen is a specialist in EBT's: CBT, DBT, MBCT, and psychological assessments. Dr. Pedersen received her BA from UCLA, MA from LMU, and Doctorate from U Chicago SPP.
(747) 330-0250 View (747) 330-0250
Photo of Julissa Cortes, PsyD, Psychologist
Julissa Cortes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
I have experience working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, early childhood trauma, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Lifespan who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults providing comprehensive psychological testing. I received my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, and completed an APA predoctoral internship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Throughout my graduate training and post-doctoral training, I have worked in hospitals, schools, community mental health, and outpatient clinic settings.
I have experience working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, early childhood trauma, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Lifespan who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults providing comprehensive psychological testing. I received my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, and completed an APA predoctoral internship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Throughout my graduate training and post-doctoral training, I have worked in hospitals, schools, community mental health, and outpatient clinic settings.
(805) 852-5039 View (805) 852-5039
Photo of Susan Paul-Klein - Susan Paul-Klein LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Paul-Klein LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with bi-polar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, substance abuse, obsessive compulsive disorder,& eating disorders.
I believe that each person searches to find a therapist with whom they feel a connection. It is very important to me that I provide you with a positive emotional experience. One that is free from judgement, or underlying agendas. I strive to support my clients by being a dependable, focused and consistently positive force in their lives. A person grows through connection, consistency and genuine caring. I am not a clinician who believes that one has to feel pain in order to progress in therapy. Quite the contrary, it is through having a more healthy positive relationship, which causes meaningful change.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with bi-polar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, substance abuse, obsessive compulsive disorder,& eating disorders.
I believe that each person searches to find a therapist with whom they feel a connection. It is very important to me that I provide you with a positive emotional experience. One that is free from judgement, or underlying agendas. I strive to support my clients by being a dependable, focused and consistently positive force in their lives. A person grows through connection, consistency and genuine caring. I am not a clinician who believes that one has to feel pain in order to progress in therapy. Quite the contrary, it is through having a more healthy positive relationship, which causes meaningful change.
(818) 839-6850 View (818) 839-6850
Photo of Nicole Gershenson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Gershenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
Hi, thanks for visiting my page! I love and often find myself working with creatives (film, tv, music, production, writing) as well as those in tech and finance. My work with individuals and/or couples is centered around anxiety and ocd related issues, existential dread (yes it’s a for sure thing!), and relationship challenges. Sessions often look like the space to problem solve, get deep, and work through blocks/feeling stuck. If this sounds like something of interest feel free to reach out, I’d love to meet you!
Hi, thanks for visiting my page! I love and often find myself working with creatives (film, tv, music, production, writing) as well as those in tech and finance. My work with individuals and/or couples is centered around anxiety and ocd related issues, existential dread (yes it’s a for sure thing!), and relationship challenges. Sessions often look like the space to problem solve, get deep, and work through blocks/feeling stuck. If this sounds like something of interest feel free to reach out, I’d love to meet you!
(818) 824-8842 View (818) 824-8842

See more therapy options for Lake Balboa

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.