Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Midtown, San Diego, CA

Photo of Brian Blanco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Blanco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts and compulsions, and/or trauma I am here to help. I have worked in community clinics and public service settings including UC San Diego and VA San Diego and am experienced in providing evidence based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts and compulsions, and/or trauma I am here to help. I have worked in community clinics and public service settings including UC San Diego and VA San Diego and am experienced in providing evidence based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
(760) 387-8998 View (760) 387-8998
Photo of Amaya Tueller - Amaya Tueller ADHD and Autism Therapist , AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amaya Tueller ADHD and Autism Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
Additionally, I work with other concerns that tend to co-occur with neurodiversity including eating disorders/concerns (including ARFID), OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Welcome to my page! I work primarily with neurodivergent (autism, ADHD, PDA) clients and mixed neurotype couples/polycules . As a queer, and late diagnosed neurodivergent therapist, I love helping others to understand themselves better and advocate for their needs. Receiving my own diagnosis in adulthood came with grief and I’d love opportunity to help you work through the complicated emotions inherent in this type of identity exploration. Working with my brain instead of against it as been incredibly healing and has drastically improved my mental health; I hope to help my clients achieve the same freedom.
Additionally, I work with other concerns that tend to co-occur with neurodiversity including eating disorders/concerns (including ARFID), OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Welcome to my page! I work primarily with neurodivergent (autism, ADHD, PDA) clients and mixed neurotype couples/polycules . As a queer, and late diagnosed neurodivergent therapist, I love helping others to understand themselves better and advocate for their needs. Receiving my own diagnosis in adulthood came with grief and I’d love opportunity to help you work through the complicated emotions inherent in this type of identity exploration. Working with my brain instead of against it as been incredibly healing and has drastically improved my mental health; I hope to help my clients achieve the same freedom.
(619) 404-5461 View (619) 404-5461
Photo of Miguel Humara, PhD, Psychologist
Miguel Humara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
These treatment methods have been extensively validated in research as the best method for dealing with many problems including: anxiety, depression, obsessive thinking, problematic relationships, and sexual dysfunction.
Change your life for the better with short-term therapy that empowers you to solve your own problems fast. People in today's world face many unique challenges. Whether you are just starting out, questioning the future or regretting the past, you may need help in dealing with life's social, relational and occupational difficulties.
These treatment methods have been extensively validated in research as the best method for dealing with many problems including: anxiety, depression, obsessive thinking, problematic relationships, and sexual dysfunction.
Change your life for the better with short-term therapy that empowers you to solve your own problems fast. People in today's world face many unique challenges. Whether you are just starting out, questioning the future or regretting the past, you may need help in dealing with life's social, relational and occupational difficulties.
(619) 693-1410 View (619) 693-1410
Photo of Chelsea Wise-Diangson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chelsea Wise-Diangson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I understand how overwhelming OCD and anxiety can be.
Are you wrestling with anxiety, OCD, or the pressures of the Millennial experience? Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of late-stage capitalism? I'm here to support you. Specializing in anxiety disorders, I'm passionate about helping you reclaim control and build the life you envision. My ideal clients are those who are motivated and ready to commit to the journey of growth. Together, we'll navigate the challenges, even if you're unsure of your goals. My role is to guide you through the process, helping you find clarity and envision a future filled with peace, joy, and fulfillment in all aspects of your life.
I understand how overwhelming OCD and anxiety can be.
Are you wrestling with anxiety, OCD, or the pressures of the Millennial experience? Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of late-stage capitalism? I'm here to support you. Specializing in anxiety disorders, I'm passionate about helping you reclaim control and build the life you envision. My ideal clients are those who are motivated and ready to commit to the journey of growth. Together, we'll navigate the challenges, even if you're unsure of your goals. My role is to guide you through the process, helping you find clarity and envision a future filled with peace, joy, and fulfillment in all aspects of your life.
(408) 317-1692 View (408) 317-1692
Photo of Brandi Martin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandi Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with individuals and couples. Since obtaining my license in 2018, I've dedicated my practice to supporting high-performing adults facing challenges such as perfectionism, burnout, relationship dynamics, parenting and postpartum struggles, infertility, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorders, anxiety, and depression. Creating a safe and nurturing space where clients can process and heal is paramount to me, as I believe the therapeutic relationship lays the foundation for success.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with individuals and couples. Since obtaining my license in 2018, I've dedicated my practice to supporting high-performing adults facing challenges such as perfectionism, burnout, relationship dynamics, parenting and postpartum struggles, infertility, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorders, anxiety, and depression. Creating a safe and nurturing space where clients can process and heal is paramount to me, as I believe the therapeutic relationship lays the foundation for success.
(657) 256-5882 View (657) 256-5882
Photo of Pete Mcclintock, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pete Mcclintock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
I have a great deal of experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, attachment disorders, anger management, OCD, ODD, ADD, PTSD, bi-polar disorder, grief, and relationship problems Feel free to call me and schedule a free consultation.
Experience matters! I have been practicing for over 35 years. Finding the right therapist is not always an easy task. I possess a wealth of knowledge, and provide the comfort and confidence that can only come from a seasoned professional.. I specialize in treating children and adolescents but also work with adults, both individually and in couples therapy.
I have a great deal of experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, attachment disorders, anger management, OCD, ODD, ADD, PTSD, bi-polar disorder, grief, and relationship problems Feel free to call me and schedule a free consultation.
Experience matters! I have been practicing for over 35 years. Finding the right therapist is not always an easy task. I possess a wealth of knowledge, and provide the comfort and confidence that can only come from a seasoned professional.. I specialize in treating children and adolescents but also work with adults, both individually and in couples therapy.
(619) 320-4483 View (619) 320-4483
Photo of Alyssa Hustwick, PsyD, Psychologist
Alyssa Hustwick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
My specialties include helping people process past trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, academic/career challenges, build self-esteem, work through people pleasing or perfectionistic tendencies, process feelings of guilt and shame, and resolve difficult relational dynamics.
I believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life - a life that is connected to your values, passions, and loved ones. I value authentic human connection and want to understand your joy, pain, your past, what you believe in, and what you hope for. I will help you gain insight into yourself, so that you can confidently navigate life’s challenges and find healing and purpose.
My specialties include helping people process past trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, academic/career challenges, build self-esteem, work through people pleasing or perfectionistic tendencies, process feelings of guilt and shame, and resolve difficult relational dynamics.
I believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life - a life that is connected to your values, passions, and loved ones. I value authentic human connection and want to understand your joy, pain, your past, what you believe in, and what you hope for. I will help you gain insight into yourself, so that you can confidently navigate life’s challenges and find healing and purpose.
(619) 746-8686 View (619) 746-8686
Photo of Ryan Dumke, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Ryan Dumke
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
Hello! In a world that can feel rough and insensitive, with pasts that feel like they can choke us, it can be hard to move past the weight of our histories and our own minds. I'm here to help you figure out problems you want to overcome, what goals and life you want, and work with you to get there. I work with mood disorders (depression), anxiety disorders ( OCD, Generalized Anxiety, panic), trauma-spectrum disorders (PTSD), relationship problems, intimacy issues, emotional problems, work and academic issues, and generalized coaching. Reach out and we'll figure it out together! Call 619-500-8967 for a free consult.
Hello! In a world that can feel rough and insensitive, with pasts that feel like they can choke us, it can be hard to move past the weight of our histories and our own minds. I'm here to help you figure out problems you want to overcome, what goals and life you want, and work with you to get there. I work with mood disorders (depression), anxiety disorders ( OCD, Generalized Anxiety, panic), trauma-spectrum disorders (PTSD), relationship problems, intimacy issues, emotional problems, work and academic issues, and generalized coaching. Reach out and we'll figure it out together! Call 619-500-8967 for a free consult.
(760) 239-5626 View (760) 239-5626
Photo of Jennifer Lara, ASW
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
I practice each intervention through distinctive situations my clients may experience when living with trauma and mental health which can develop symptoms of depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, and co-occurring addictive disorders.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
I practice each intervention through distinctive situations my clients may experience when living with trauma and mental health which can develop symptoms of depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, and co-occurring addictive disorders.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(760) 214-9581 View (760) 214-9581
Photo of Colleen Prentice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Prentice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Colleen Prentice LCSW, 118341. My practice is client-centered, collaborative, trauma-informed, and solution-focused, starting where the client is at. My approach is holistic taking in the whole person with ongoing assessment and treatment planning focusing on the client's goals. Client populations that I’m experienced with range from anxiety and depression to schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have also worked with clients who have ADHD and are on the autism spectrum as well as clients who have OCD. My age ranges from 7 to 82.
Colleen Prentice LCSW, 118341. My practice is client-centered, collaborative, trauma-informed, and solution-focused, starting where the client is at. My approach is holistic taking in the whole person with ongoing assessment and treatment planning focusing on the client's goals. Client populations that I’m experienced with range from anxiety and depression to schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have also worked with clients who have ADHD and are on the autism spectrum as well as clients who have OCD. My age ranges from 7 to 82.
(619) 604-6203 View (619) 604-6203
Photo of Stacy Bonds, PhD, Psychologist
Stacy Bonds
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I value working with clients facing all kinds of difficulties, but specialize in working with PTSD, anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship difficulties, sexuality, and gender issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has a warm and compassionate approach to therapy, which encourages active collaboration. I have a passion for walking alongside others in the midst of struggle. When you come to therapy, it’s like you are trying to climb a mountain; I am not at the top of your mountain but, rather, on another mountain, offering a different perspective, pointing out potential dangers, and helping you find the most effective path along your journey.
I value working with clients facing all kinds of difficulties, but specialize in working with PTSD, anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship difficulties, sexuality, and gender issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has a warm and compassionate approach to therapy, which encourages active collaboration. I have a passion for walking alongside others in the midst of struggle. When you come to therapy, it’s like you are trying to climb a mountain; I am not at the top of your mountain but, rather, on another mountain, offering a different perspective, pointing out potential dangers, and helping you find the most effective path along your journey.
(858) 682-0054 View (858) 682-0054
Photo of Amaya Tueller - Amaya Tueller Eating Disorder Therapist , AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amaya Tueller Eating Disorder Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
Welcome to my page! I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with eating and body image. I work with a variety of eating issues including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and body image issues. I work from a compassion focused and trauma informed lens, supporting my clients in better understanding themselves and building tools to help them get to their goals. I work with many issues that tend to overlap with eating difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, self harm and substance use.
Welcome to my page! I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with eating and body image. I work with a variety of eating issues including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and body image issues. I work from a compassion focused and trauma informed lens, supporting my clients in better understanding themselves and building tools to help them get to their goals. I work with many issues that tend to overlap with eating difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, self harm and substance use.
(619) 878-3201 View (619) 878-3201
Photo of Linet T Zmrutyan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linet T Zmrutyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
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 Ruth Millican - Ruth Millican, Testing Psychologist: ADHD + Autism, PsyD, Psychologist
Ruth Millican, Testing Psychologist: ADHD + Autism
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
Along with evaluation for ADHD and Autism, I can also assess for any co-occuring concerns you have (anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, learning differences, personality structure and any other relevant concerns/issues).
Welcome to my page! I provide neurodiversity affirming testing for those wondering if they may be Autistic or ADHD, later in life. Many times, people who fall into these categories have been missed or mis-diagnosed (especially those who are assigned female at birth, or BIPOC). You may have also been missed if you are high masking or have low support needs. The testing I provide takes all of these factors into consideration to give you the most accurate understanding of your identity. Neurotypes (Autism/ADHD) are differences and not disorders, and I provide an evaluations in a way that honors the whole person.
Along with evaluation for ADHD and Autism, I can also assess for any co-occuring concerns you have (anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, learning differences, personality structure and any other relevant concerns/issues).
Welcome to my page! I provide neurodiversity affirming testing for those wondering if they may be Autistic or ADHD, later in life. Many times, people who fall into these categories have been missed or mis-diagnosed (especially those who are assigned female at birth, or BIPOC). You may have also been missed if you are high masking or have low support needs. The testing I provide takes all of these factors into consideration to give you the most accurate understanding of your identity. Neurotypes (Autism/ADHD) are differences and not disorders, and I provide an evaluations in a way that honors the whole person.
(619) 745-5203 View (619) 745-5203
Photo of Tara Miskovich, PhD, Psychologist
Tara Miskovich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is primarily Cognitive Behavioral which integrates mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment-based approaches. Additionally, I incorporate humanistic elements that fundamentally hold that each individual has inherent worth and value. In therapy, we explore the ways internal and external factors have impacted your mental health and strive toward achieving your tailored treatment goals. In addition, I offer several evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure for PTSD, Exposure Response Prevention for OCD, and Behavioral Activation for depression.
My therapeutic approach is primarily Cognitive Behavioral which integrates mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment-based approaches. Additionally, I incorporate humanistic elements that fundamentally hold that each individual has inherent worth and value. In therapy, we explore the ways internal and external factors have impacted your mental health and strive toward achieving your tailored treatment goals. In addition, I offer several evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure for PTSD, Exposure Response Prevention for OCD, and Behavioral Activation for depression.
(619) 848-3543 View (619) 848-3543
Photo of Pamela Newman, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Pamela Newman
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
Do you struggle to maintain balance in your mood and mindset as a result of your high-stress life or profession? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or OCD as a result of that stress? If so, you are not alone. There are ways to help you when these emotions arise, pinpoint the triggers, and improve the way you approach them so they don’t overwhelm you. ERP, CBT, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness Skills are all treatment methods in which I have been trained to assist you in living a much more fulfilled and balanced life. Therapy can help you gain control over the issues that are preventing you from reaching your full potential.
Do you struggle to maintain balance in your mood and mindset as a result of your high-stress life or profession? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or OCD as a result of that stress? If so, you are not alone. There are ways to help you when these emotions arise, pinpoint the triggers, and improve the way you approach them so they don’t overwhelm you. ERP, CBT, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness Skills are all treatment methods in which I have been trained to assist you in living a much more fulfilled and balanced life. Therapy can help you gain control over the issues that are preventing you from reaching your full potential.
(858) 201-7248 View (858) 201-7248
Photo of Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
I provide mental health care to youth, families, and adults coping with life transitions, chronic family stress, and identity development. These circumstances have led many individuals to experience symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, and feelings of loss. It is a sign of bravery and strength to seek support when these stressors are difficult to manage on your own. I am here to explore ways to improve your quality of life and identify unmet needs contributing to mental health symptoms.
I provide mental health care to youth, families, and adults coping with life transitions, chronic family stress, and identity development. These circumstances have led many individuals to experience symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, and feelings of loss. It is a sign of bravery and strength to seek support when these stressors are difficult to manage on your own. I am here to explore ways to improve your quality of life and identify unmet needs contributing to mental health symptoms.
(619) 881-0303 View (619) 881-0303
Photo of Léah Ferreira, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Léah Ferreira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Having anxiety can cause feelings of being out of control. Depression can cause almost physical pain. Sometimes, to feel more in control or less pain, we do things that we think are helping. But, is it? The heaviness of trauma can be frightening, frustrating, and even lonely! Everyone has a right to be heard and feel comfortable within their own space. I'm an LGBTQIA+ therapist, with an eclectic, holistic therapeutic perspective. I consider YOU to be an expert in your life and growth. No one knows you better than yourself. Sometimes, we all just need a little guidance.
Having anxiety can cause feelings of being out of control. Depression can cause almost physical pain. Sometimes, to feel more in control or less pain, we do things that we think are helping. But, is it? The heaviness of trauma can be frightening, frustrating, and even lonely! Everyone has a right to be heard and feel comfortable within their own space. I'm an LGBTQIA+ therapist, with an eclectic, holistic therapeutic perspective. I consider YOU to be an expert in your life and growth. No one knows you better than yourself. Sometimes, we all just need a little guidance.
(909) 414-0987 View (909) 414-0987
Photo of Christine Rivlin, LPCC, Counselor
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(760) 206-3607 View (760) 206-3607
Photo of Shay DuBois, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shay DuBois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
You feel broken, stuck, and afraid to talk about what happened. Why bring up things you want to forget? You tried talking about it and you were told “you have it better than I did” or weren’t believed. You pushed it down but end up exhausted and empty inside. You're ashamed. Was it your fault? You try to act normal but no one knows the real you. You don’t have energy and don’t know what you enjoy. You don't have friends, you are too burned out. When you aren’t numb you're angry, anxious, and second guessing everything. Why can't you get over it? You keep reliving the mistakes that reinforces the “proof" of your worthlessness.
You feel broken, stuck, and afraid to talk about what happened. Why bring up things you want to forget? You tried talking about it and you were told “you have it better than I did” or weren’t believed. You pushed it down but end up exhausted and empty inside. You're ashamed. Was it your fault? You try to act normal but no one knows the real you. You don’t have energy and don’t know what you enjoy. You don't have friends, you are too burned out. When you aren’t numb you're angry, anxious, and second guessing everything. Why can't you get over it? You keep reliving the mistakes that reinforces the “proof" of your worthlessness.
(619) 272-2830 View (619) 272-2830
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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.